The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Senate President, Henry Okunomo, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to increase the monthly allowance for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to ₦77,000.
He stated that the current monthly salary of ₦33,000 is inadequate in light of current economic conditions.
Okunomo made the appeal in a letter to President Tinubu, which was signed on Monday and made available to the press in Kano.
“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.”
The NANS Senate President stated, “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.”
He disclosed that the current allowance of ₦33,000 per month is grossly inadequate, given the prevailing economic conditions.
Supporting his call for an increase, Okunomo said, “Here are some compelling reasons why I implore you to increase the NYSC allowances:
Recent Increase in Minimum Wage: 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.
High Cost of Living: The cost of living in Nigeria has skyrocketed, making it difficult for corps members to survive on the meagre allowances.
Inflation: The current inflation rate has eroded the purchasing power of the allowances, leaving corps members with little or nothing to show for their service.
Okunomo also noted, “Increasing the allowances will motivate corps members to perform their duties with enthusiasm and dedication, leading to improved productivity and national development.”
On equity, he emphasised, “It is only fair that corps members, who are serving their nation, should earn a living wage that reflects the current economic realities.”
He concluded, “Increasing the allowances 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.”
Mr. President, 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,” the NANS Senate President said.