Abuja, April 4, 2025 – The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has assured corps members who recently completed their service that they will receive arrears of the newly approved N77,000 allowance. This announcement came from NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, during a meeting in Abuja on Thursday.
New Allowance and Arrears Details
The NYSC started paying corps members N77,000 monthly in March 2025. This is a big jump from the previous N33,000 allowance. The increase follows the new minimum wage law signed by President Bola Tinubu eight months ago. Now, the government plans to pay the difference to corps members who served before the change.
General Nafiu said, “The government is aware of its promise. When funds are released, we will pay the arrears.” He added that even corps members who have already finished their service will benefit. “We have their bank details. Once we get the money, we will credit them,” he explained.
Who Will Get the Payment?
The NYSC has not said exactly which corps members qualify as “recently passed out.” Some reports suggest it could include those who finished service after July 2024, when the new allowance was first approved. But this is not yet confirmed. The payment will happen as soon as the government provides the funds.
When Will the Money Come?
There is no set date for the arrears payment yet. General Nafiu made it clear that it depends on when the government releases the money. He asked Nigerians to trust that the government will handle it. “The government is responsible and responsive,” he said.
Other Issues Raised
During the meeting, the NYSC also talked about fake graduates. The Director of Corps Mobilisation, Mohammed Abubakar, said some schools are still enrolling unqualified people into the NYSC program. He called it a serious problem that needs to stop.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, also spoke. He said the NYSC must change to match President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “Nigeria is growing, and the NYSC must prepare graduates for jobs,” he added.
What’s Next?
For now, corps members who have passed out are waiting for their N77,000 arrears. The NYSC has promised to pay them once the funds arrive. More details about who qualifies and when the payment will happen are still needed. Keep watching for updates!
