GOVERNOR ALEX OTTI APPROVES HISTORIC NYSC ALLOWANCE INCREASE IN ABIA STATE

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has approved a major increase in monthly allowances for National Youth Service Corps members serving in the state, marking the first such adjustment in nearly three decades. Under the new plan, every corps member will receive a state allowance of ₦20,000 monthly, in addition to the federal government’s payment of ₦77,000.

Corps members deployed to government offices will get an extra ₦10,000, while those posted to schools and hospitals will receive an additional ₦30,000. This means some NYSC members could earn up to ₦127,000 per month, depending on their place of assignment. The state allowance was previously ₦4,000, representing a 1,150 percent increase.

Governor Otti stated that the new payment system is designed to encourage young people serving in the state and help address the shortage of teachers and health workers in rural areas. “This initiative will motivate corps members and ensure they contribute effectively to critical sectors,” Otti said. The Abia government has also completed renovations at the NYSC orientation camp in Umunna, Bende Local Government Area, which include improved roads, enhanced power supply, and repairs to hostels and offices. Many residents have praised the decision, with Abia now being viewed as one of the top states in Nigeria for corps member welfare and support. Officials confirmed that the new allowances will take effect soon, once payment arrangements are finalized.