The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has voiced its profound discontent and called for a thorough investigation into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) regarding the non-payment of the recently approved N77,000 monthly allowance for corps members. This allowance, a significant increase from the previous N33,000, was officially sanctioned by the Federal Government and slated to take effect in July 2024. However, despite several months passing since the approval, the NYSC has yet to implement the increased payment, prompting NANS to demand an explanation and probe into the potential mismanagement of funds. The delay has raised concerns about the welfare of corps members who are enduring increased economic hardship due to the disparity between the promised allowance and the actual amount received.
NANS’s call for an inquiry stems from the NYSC’s unfulfilled promise to commence payment of the N77,000 allowance by the end of February 2025. The Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, had publicly assured corps members of the impending increase, citing the non-release of funds as the reason for the initial delay. However, despite this explanation, February’s allowance remained at the previous rate of N33,000, significantly short of the promised N70,000, let alone the approved N77,000. This discrepancy between the official pronouncements and the reality on the ground has fuelled NANS’s suspicions, leading them to demand a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the true cause of the delay and ensure accountability.
The student body has highlighted the injustice faced by corps members who continue to receive the old allowance while the Federal Government and many state governments have implemented the new minimum wage of N70,000 for their employees. NANS argues that the NYSC lacks any justifiable grounds for withholding the approved allowance, especially given the prevailing economic climate in the country. The continued disbursement of the lower allowance has raised questions about the NYSC’s financial management and its commitment to the welfare of the corps members, who are making significant contributions to national development. The failure to provide the promised financial support not only undermines the morale of these young individuals but also raises concerns about the NYSC’s transparency and accountability.
NANS emphasized that the delay in implementing the new allowance has the potential to severely dampen the morale of corps members, particularly in the context of the challenging economic conditions prevalent in Nigeria. These young graduates, often posted to remote locations and tasked with contributing to various sectors, rely on the monthly allowance to cover their basic living expenses. The denial of the promised increase places an undue financial burden on them, hindering their ability to effectively perform their duties and potentially impacting their overall experience in the NYSC program. The uncertainty surrounding the allowance payment further exacerbates their anxieties and creates a sense of distrust towards the institution responsible for their welfare.
Felicia Akinbodunse, the National Vice President, Inter-Campus Affairs of NANS, underscored the organization’s commitment to pursuing this matter until a satisfactory resolution is reached. She reiterated NANS’s intention to engage directly with the NYSC leadership to demand answers regarding the delayed implementation of the new allowance. This direct engagement seeks to establish the reasons behind the discrepancy between the official pronouncements and the actual payments received by corps members. Furthermore, NANS will also seek clarification on why the NYSC staff, unlike the corps members, are reportedly receiving the increased pay as stipulated by the Federal Government. This apparent disparity further strengthens the need for a transparent investigation into the NYSC’s financial practices.
NANS’s pursuit of this issue reflects their commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Nigerian students, including those participating in the NYSC program. The organization’s call for a government investigation into the NYSC’s financial management underscores the importance of transparency and accountability within public institutions. The demand for prompt payment of the approved allowance is not merely a financial concern but also a matter of justice and respect for the contributions of corps members to the nation’s development. The resolution of this issue will not only alleviate the financial burden on corps members but also reinforce their faith in the government’s commitment to their well-being. NANS’s proactive stance serves as a crucial reminder of the role of student advocacy in holding institutions accountable and ensuring that the rights and welfare of young Nigerians are protected.
