In response to the recent increase in the National Minimum Wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, the Federal Government has raised the monthly allowance for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) from ₦30,000 to ₦77,000. While this adjustment offers some relief to corps members currently living on the previous allowance, it remains insufficient for graduates navigating the escalating cost of living in Nigeria.
The ₦77,000 monthly stipend does not align with the financial realities faced by young graduates, particularly as living costs have surged dramatically since President Bola Tinubu’s implementation of stringent economic policies 16 months ago. Many corps members are assigned to distant states, often far from their homes, which further exacerbates their financial burden.
Historically, when the NYSC scheme began on May 22, 1973, Nigeria enjoyed a more prosperous climate with greater demand for graduate manpower. Corps members were welcomed with additional support and opportunities for employment post-service. However, the current landscape is vastly different. Many corps members today face challenges, including inadequate education and high unemployment rates. Reports indicate that corps members are frequently rejected in their placements, and the prevailing insecurity in Nigeria has made them vulnerable to kidnappings and abductions.
In light of these circumstances, there is a growing call for a reevaluation of the NYSC scheme, emphasizing the need to prioritize the safety and welfare of participants. Some stakeholders suggest that the scheme’s objectives be revised and that compulsory participation be suspended until security concerns are addressed, especially in regions plagued by terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings.
A pressing issue is the inadequacy of the monthly allowance. The ₦77,000 stipend is not enough to cover basic necessities such as food, housing, transportation, and personal expenses. It is incongruous that a graduate should receive an allowance equivalent to the minimum wage, which typically applies to unskilled labor.
Advocates argue that corps members should be entitled to a monthly allowance of no less than ₦120,000 to ₦150,000. Furthermore, while the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has been extended to corps members, additional insurance coverage, including accident and life insurance, should also be provided. Participants should be offered opportunities to enhance their skills through digital training and entrepreneurship programs, increasing their employability post-service.
Ultimately, the NYSC should aim to add tangible value to the experiences of corps members, ensuring that they are not only protected but also equipped for future success