By Iyiola Olalere
The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has commended the Federal Government’s recent approval of the increment of corps members’ monthly allowance from N33,000 to N77,000, effective from July 2024.
This strategic intervention by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is aimed at cushioning the effects of the current economic challenges and providing much-needed financial relief to Nigerian youths participating in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Ahmad Sajoh, and Secretary, Afolabi Josiah, the Forum praised the government’s swift action.
The statement reads: “We at the Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) wholeheartedly applaud President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the remarkable step of increasing corps members’ allowances because it is a forthright thing to do.
“This significant raise comes at a critical time and is a clear indication of the administration’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youths and mitigating the economic challenges they face.”
The increase, announced by the NYSC’s Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, was officially communicated through a letter from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, signed by its Chairman, Mr. Ekpo Nta. The adjustment follows the enactment of the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024, which raised the national minimum wage to N70,000, with the corps members’ allowance adjusted accordingly.
Before this intervention, corps members received N33,000 monthly, based on the previous minimum wage revision in 2019. The new allowance, which takes effect from July 2024, is a much-needed boost that underscores the government’s dedication to improving the welfare of corps members, many of whom are fresh graduates transiting into the workforce.
The Forum further acknowledged the efforts of Brigadier-General Yusha’u Ahmed, the Director General of the NYSC, whose advocacy visit to the Chairman of the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission played a pivotal role in securing this robust welfare package for corps members.
In the words of TSF, “This approval could not have come at a better time. It represents yet another landmark achievement of the Tinubu administration, addressing the financial needs of our youth and reinforcing the government’s promise to improve the living standards of Nigerians across all sectors.”
The TSF also expressed optimism that this measure will not only bring immediate relief to corps members but also motivate them to serve the nation with renewed vigour and enthusiasm.
“We commend the federal government for its proactive response to the economic challenges, and we are confident that this increase will inspire corps members to continue contributing meaningfully to national development during their service year,” the statement added.
The Forum urged all relevant stakeholders, including the NYSC management, to ensure seamless implementation of the new allowance and to continue advocating for policies that benefit Nigerian youths. TSF reiterated its support for the Tinubu administration’s ongoing efforts to prioritize youth empowerment, economic growth, and national unity.
The Forum equally enjoins persons, agencies, and organizations employing the services of Youth Corp members to support the presidential gesture by investing more on the welfare and well-being of the NYSC members in their service. The Hallmark of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu government is that it emphasizes collective action to achieve the desired transformation of the country.
TSF calls on all Nigerians to support the efforts of the government, especially in the area of youth development, which is an investment in the future of the country. This informs many of the laudable initiatives of this government in youth development and skills acquisition.
“The increase in the corps members’ allowance is one of the many initiatives by the Tinubu administration designed to alleviate the economic pressures faced by citizens. It stands as further evidence of the President’s resolve to fulfil his campaign promises and build a more prosperous and equitable Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
