- Get link
- X
- Other Apps
Nigerian Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members across the country have expressed frustration and disappointment after once again receiving the monthly allowance of ₦33,000, which many believe is insufficient for the rising cost of living.
The allowance, which has remained unchanged for several years, continues to be a source of discontent among Corps members who feel that it does not adequately cover their basic needs during their one-year national service.The ₦33,000 stipend is intended to cater to the living expenses of Corps members, including transportation, feeding, and other daily necessities. However, many Corps members argue that with inflation on the rise and the cost of goods and services increasing, the allowance has become far too low to meet their needs.
"It's really frustrating," said one Corps member, speaking on condition of anonymity. "We are out here serving the country, and this is the amount we get? It doesn't cover half of what I spend in a month. I have to find ways to supplement this just to survive."
The issue has sparked a wave of online complaints and discussions, with many Corps members taking to social media to express their discontent. Some have called for an increase in the allowance to match the current economic realities, while others have questioned the fairness of paying a uniform stipend to all Corps members, regardless of their location or the cost of living in their area of service.
"It's not just about the amount," said another Corps member. "It's about the fact that we are expected to live on this for an entire month, no matter where we are stationed. Some places are more expensive to live in than others, yet we all receive the same amount. It's just not fair."
The NYSC allowance has long been a topic of debate, with many Nigerians, including lawmakers and former Corps members, calling for a review of the stipend to ensure it better supports the young graduates who are dedicating a year of their lives to national service.
As Corps members continue to voice their concerns, the government has yet to make any official statements regarding an increase in the NYSC allowance. For now, many are left to contend with the ₦33,000 stipend, which remains unchanged despite the growing calls for reform.