The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Senate President, Henry Okunomo, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to increase the monthly allowance for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to ₦77,000.
In a letter to the President, Okunomo argued that the current allowance of ₦33,000 per month is grossly inadequate, considering the prevailing economic realities. He cited the recent increase in the minimum wage and the high cost of living as reasons for the proposed increase.
The letter, dated Monday, 12th August reads:
“I write to you today as a concerned citizen and a stakeholder in the development of our great nation. I am compelled to bring to your attention the urgent need to increase the allowances of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in light of the recent increase in the minimum wage and the high cost of living.
“Mr. President, as you are aware, the NYSC scheme is a vital component of our nation’s youth development strategy. The scheme provides an opportunity for our young graduates to contribute to national development, foster national unity, and acquire valuable skills.
“I implore you to increase the NYSC allowances for several compelling reasons:
– The recent increase in the minimum wage to ₦30,000 has not been reflected in the NYSC allowances, leaving corps members struggling to make ends meet.
– The cost of living in Nigeria has skyrocketed, making it difficult for corps members to survive on the meagre allowances.
– The current inflation rate has eroded the purchasing power of the allowances, leaving corps members with little or nothing to show for their service.
“Increasing the allowances will motivate corps members to perform their duties with enthusiasm and dedication, leading to improved productivity and national development. It is only fair that corps members, who are serving their nation, should earn a living wage that reflects the current economic realities.
“I appeal to your sense of justice, compassion, and commitment to the development of our nation’s youth. I urge you to take immediate action to increase the NYSC allowances to a minimum of ₦77,000 per month. This is an investment in our nation’s human capital, as it will enable corps members to acquire skills, build their capacity, and contribute meaningfully to national development.”
Okunomo concluded by emphasizing the importance of increasing the allowances to ensure the well-being and productivity of NYSC members.
This move is part of NANS’ efforts to advocate for the welfare of NYSC members and ensure that they are adequately compensated for their service to the nation.
