Governor Alex Otti Announces Significant Increase in NYSC Allowances
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has announced a substantial increase in the monthly allowances for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving within the state. The new policy raises the payment “from ₦4,000 to as much as ₦50,000.” This move is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing youth empowerment and improving public sector capacity.
The revised allowance structure includes a base monthly allowance of ₦20,000 for all corps members serving in Abia. In addition to this base amount, those deployed to state government establishments will receive an extra ₦10,000. Medical and teaching corps members will earn an additional ₦30,000 monthly. These increases are intended to motivate interested individuals and address long-standing issues of neglect and attrition in both sectors.
The approval was revealed in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Njoku Ukoha, on Friday. The statement emphasized that the new allowance complements the Federal Government’s increased monthly NYSC allowance of ₦77,000. It also highlighted the governor’s commitment to strengthening youth empowerment and public sector development in Abia.
“This marks the first major adjustment after 27 years, reflecting Governor Otti’s commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development in Abia,” the statement said. It further noted that the administration has consistently supported corps members through various initiatives, including the renovation of the NYSC Orientation Camp in Bende Local Government Area and improvements to internal roads, power infrastructure, and camp facilities.
Ukoha added that the governor believes every institution or infrastructure within Abia, whether federal or state-owned, deserves attention because it ultimately benefits the people of the state. This philosophy extends to other sectors, as the administration recently implemented the Consolidated Health Salary Structure for health workers across the state and extended it to local government employees, aligning their pay with federal standards to boost morale and productivity in the health sector.
According to the statement, approximately 35 per cent of the state’s budget is allocated to healthcare and education sectors, which the administration describes as “pillars of institutional capacity and human capital development.” The reforms are designed to make service rewarding for corps members and encourage young professionals to contribute meaningfully to Abia’s growth.
“Governor Otti’s latest move sends a clear message: Abia State is serious about empowering youth, rewarding excellence, and building a future where service is truly valued,” the statement concluded.
With the allowance increase, Abia State now ranks among the states with the highest monthly stipends for NYSC members. This development reflects the state’s commitment to supporting its youth and fostering a culture of service and contribution.
Other States Also Increase Allowances
In a similar move, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri announced an increase in the monthly allowance of National Youth Service Corps members serving in the state from ₦20,000 to ₦30,000. The governor made the announcement during the swearing-in ceremony for the 2025 Batch B Stream I corps members, held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Damare, Girei Local Government Area.
“As a government, we are committed to improving the welfare of corps members. This increment aligns with our promise to create a friendly and supportive atmosphere for you,” the governor stated.
This trend of increasing allowances highlights a growing recognition of the importance of supporting NYSC members and ensuring that their service is both meaningful and financially viable.