March 25, 2025 – The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced its commitment to pay the backlog of the N77,000 monthly allowance owed to members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). This comes after months of delays since the allowance increase was first revealed in September 2024.
The monthly allowance for NYSC members was raised from N33,000 to N77,000 in September last year. However, corps members have yet to receive the new amount, leaving many waiting anxiously for the promised funds. Now, the government says it is ready to make things right and ensure the payments reach those who deserve them.
Minister Confirms Payment Plans
In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, assured Nigerians that the backlog would be paid. He said both current corps members and those who were serving when the increase was announced would get their money.
“We will work on it and make sure it is paid. It might not happen right away, but it will happen,” Olawande promised. His words bring hope after months of uncertainty for young Nigerians serving their country.
The Director General of NYSC, Olakunle Nafiu, also recently told corps members to expect the payment this month, adding more weight to the minister’s statement. This has raised expectations that the long wait might finally be over.
Why the Delay Happened
The minister explained that the delay was due to budget problems. When the allowance increase was announced by the president, it wasn’t part of the government’s budget. “It’s a process,” Olawande said. “Before anything can be approved, there must be money set aside for it.”
He added that the budget allocation is now complete, and the process has been finalized. “It has been approved,” he confirmed, signaling that payments should start soon. This explanation shows why it took so long, but also why things are now moving forward.
Corps Members Await Action
When the government first announced the allowance increase, NYSC members were thrilled. The decision came as part of the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024, which aimed to improve pay for workers across the country. For corps members, it meant more than doubling their monthly income, a change that promised to make life easier during their service year.
But as months passed without the new amount, excitement turned to frustration. Many who were serving in September 2024 wondered if they’d ever see the extra cash. Some even felt let down by the delays. Now, with the government’s latest promise, there’s renewed hope that the wait will soon end.
What This Means for Corps Members
The NYSC program is a one-year mandatory service for Nigerian graduates. It aims to promote national unity and development by sending young people to different parts of the country. The allowance is a key support for corps members, who often serve in rural areas far from home. Raising it to N77,000 was seen as a big step to ease their financial burdens and help them focus on their work.
However, the delay showed how tricky it can be to turn promises into action. Budget issues and government processes slowed things down, but officials say they’re now on track. For those who rely on this money, the news is a sign that help is coming.
Voices from the Ground
Corps members have mixed feelings about the situation. “We were so happy when we heard about the increase,” said Aisha Bello, a serving member in Kano. “But after waiting for months, I started to lose hope. Now, I just want to see the money in my account.”
Another corps member, Chukwudi Okeke, who finished his service in December 2024, added, “I served when they announced it, so I should get the backlog too. I hope they don’t forget us.” These voices show how much the delay has affected people and why the government’s promise matters.
Looking Ahead
For NYSC members, the news is a relief. While the exact date for payments remains unclear, the government’s commitment offers a light at the end of the tunnel. Corps members are eager to see the N77,000 in their accounts, along with the backlog they’re owed from the past months.
As the process moves forward, many hope this marks a turning point. With the budget sorted and approval in place, the focus now shifts to when—not if—the payments will arrive. The government has a chance to rebuild trust with young Nigerians who serve the nation.
A Step Toward Trust
The Federal Government’s pledge to clear the backlog is a step toward keeping its word. For corps members, it’s not just about the money—it’s about trust in the system that supports them during their service year. The increase to N77,000 could make a real difference in their lives, helping with basic needs like food, transport, and housing.
Experts say this move could also encourage more graduates to take part in the program without worrying about money troubles. “When corps members are paid well and on time, they can focus on their duties,” said Dr. Funmi Adebayo, a youth development expert. “This is a good step, but it must happen soon.”
Final Thoughts
The journey to the N77,000 allowance has been long and bumpy, but the end seems near. The Federal Government’s promise to pay the backlog has brought fresh hope to thousands of young Nigerians. As the nation watches, the next few weeks will show if words turn into action.
For now, corps members hold onto the minister’s assurance that the process is done and the money is coming. After months of waiting, they’re ready for a change they can feel in their pockets.