Sokoto State Governor, Dr Ahmed Aliyu, has doubled the monthly state allowance for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in the state from N10,000 to N20,000.
The increase is intended to provide additional financial support to corps members as they carry out their mandatory one-year national service. This state-level stipend is paid in addition to the federal monthly allowance provided by the NYSC management, serving as a local welfare boost for the youth.
The decision comes as a response to the rising cost of living and the broader economic pressures currently facing many young graduates in Nigeria. By doubling the stipend, the administration aims to ease the financial burden of daily expenses, such as transportation and feeding, for those deployed across the various local government areas of Sokoto.
The implementation of the increased allowance for corps members reflects a local effort to mitigate the effects of high inflation and the removal of fuel subsidies, which have significantly impacted the purchasing power of most citizens. For many, the previous N10,000 stipend had become increasingly difficult to manage alongside the standard federal allowance.
While the NYSC is a federal programme, state governments often play a significant role in enhancing the welfare of corps members through supplementary payments. This practice is frequently used to encourage service and improve the living conditions of the youth, particularly in states where economic challenges are more acute. Such measures are often seen as a way to maintain the morale of the corps members during their service year.
In Sokoto, corps members are integrated into various sectors, including education, healthcare, and local administration. Their contribution to community development is vital, and the government has expressed a commitment to ensuring they are well-supported during their period of service.
For the thousands of corps members currently stationed in the state, the additional N10,000 will be critical for managing the logistical costs of their primary assignments. Many are deployed to rural or semi-urban areas where the costs of local transport and food can be unpredictable. This extra support is viewed as a vital safety net for young professionals transitioning into the workforce.
The state government is now expected to coordinate with the NYSC state secretariat to ensure that the new payment structure is seamlessly integrated into the upcoming monthly disbursements. Corps members are currently awaiting confirmation on when the first augmented payment will reflect in their bank accounts.
Explore more News stories from Business Elites Africa.
