Nigerian Governor Increases Corps Members’ Allowance by 1,150%

News Update

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has approved a significant increase in monthly allowances for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving in the state, raising the payment from ₦4,000 to as much as ₦50,000.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Njoku Ukoha, the new allowance structure introduces a ₦20,000 base payment for all corps members serving in Abia. In addition to this ₦20,000, those deployed to state government establishments will receive an extra ₦10,000, while medical and teaching corps members will earn an additional ₦30,000 monthly.

“In addition to the Federal Government’s increased monthly NYSC allowance of ₦77,000, all corps members serving in Abia State will now earn a base monthly allowance of ₦20,000, while those serving within state government establishments, and specifically teaching and medical personnel, will earn an additional discriminatory allowance of ₦10,000 and ₦30,000, respectively, to motivate interested corps members, thereby bridging the human capacity gap created by decades of neglect and attrition in both sectors,” the statement read.

Ukoha explained that the increment complements the Federal Government’s ₦77,000 NYSC allowance and aligns with Governor Otti’s broader policy to strengthen youth empowerment and public sector capacity across Abia. “This marks the first major adjustment after 27 years, reflecting Governor Otti’s commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development in Abia,” he stated.

The statement also highlighted that the Otti administration has continually supported corps members through several projects, including the renovation of the NYSC Orientation Camp in Bende Local Government Area. The improvements include internal road construction, upgraded camp facilities, and the installation of new power infrastructure, all aimed at improving the welfare of corps members serving in the state.

“The governor believes that every institution or infrastructure within Abia, whether federal or state-owned, deserves attention because it is Abians who benefit the most,” Ukoha said.

The Chief Press Secretary further noted that the administration’s attention to youth welfare forms part of a wider reform that also includes improved salary structures for health workers. He recalled that the government recently implemented the Consolidated Health Salary Structure for healthcare employees and extended it to local government staff, aligning their pay with federal standards.

According to Ukoha, about 35 per cent of the state’s budget is allocated to healthcare and education, which the administration describes as “pillars of institutional capacity and human capital development.” He added that these investments demonstrate the government’s determination to rebuild critical sectors and retain young professionals within the state.

Governor Otti said the latest reforms are designed to make service more rewarding for corps members and to encourage youth participation in the state’s growth and development. “Governor Otti’s latest move sends a clear message: Abia State is serious about empowering youth, rewarding excellence, and building a future where service is truly valued,” the statement concluded.

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With this allowance increment, Abia State now ranks among the states offering the highest monthly stipends for NYSC members, signaling a renewed commitment to youth development, public sector productivity, and human capital advancement in Nigeria.