Umuahia, Abia – In a significant move to boost the welfare of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has approved a substantial increase in the monthly allowances for corps members serving in the state.

The new policy, raises the allowance from a paltry N4,000 to as high as N50,000, marking a historic 1,150% increment after nearly three decades.

The decision was disclosed in a statement.

Under the revised structure, all NYSC corps members in Abia will now receive a base monthly allowance of N20,000, in addition to the federal government's recently increased allowance of N77,000.

This brings the total minimum stipend to N97,000 for corps members across the state.

The new policy introduces a tiered payment system to incentivize service in critical sectors. Corps members posted to state government institutions, such as ministries and agencies, will receive an additional N10,000, bringing their total to N107,000 monthly.

Meanwhile, those serving in schools and hospitals, key areas identified for manpower development will earn an extra N30,000, elevating their total allowance to N127,000.

However, the highest possible state contribution caps at N50,000 for those in teaching and medical roles, aligning with the governor’s vision to prioritize education and healthcare.

Kazie Ukoha, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Otti, emphasized that this adjustment reflects the administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development.

“This marks the first major adjustment after 27 years, reflecting Governor Otti’s dedication to building a state that rewards service and excellence,” Ukoha stated.

The increment comes on the heels of the federal government’s recent hike of the NYSC allowance to N77,000, a move aimed at supporting the country’s youth amid economic challenges. Abia’s decision positions the state among the top tiers in Nigeria for corps member stipends, joining states like Adamawa, where Governor Ahmadu Fintiri recently raised allowances from N20,000 to N30,000.

The previous N4,000 allowance had long been criticized as inadequate, especially given the rising cost of living and the mandatory nature of the one-year national service for Nigerian graduates.

The NYSC program, established in 1973 under General Yakubu Gowon’s regime, requires graduates to serve in states different from their home regions to foster national unity, making financial support a critical factor in their experience.

In addition to the financial boost, the Otti administration has undertaken significant upgrades to the NYSC Orientation Camp in Bende Local Government Area. Renovations include improved internal roads, restored power infrastructure, and rehabilitated buildings, enhancing the living conditions for incoming corps members despite the camp being a federal property.

Governor Otti described the initiative as a step toward motivating young Nigerians and addressing manpower shortages in vital sectors.

“The New Abia has paved the way for a New Era for Corps Members,” the governor’s statement read, signaling a broader commitment to youth welfare.

As news of the increment spreads, it is expected to set a benchmark for other states, potentially sparking similar reviews across Nigeria.