In a significant move aimed at boosting youth welfare and encouraging national service, the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has announced an upward review of the monthly allowances for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving in the state.
With immediate effect, corps members deployed to Enugu will now receive ₦20,000 per month as allowance, a sharp increase from the previous stipend of ₦10,000.
Governor Mbah’s Commitment to Youth Development
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the NYSC Orientation Camp in Awgu, Governor Mbah explained that the decision was part of his administration’s deliberate effort to empower young Nigerians, cushion the effects of economic hardship, and encourage service delivery among corps members.
“Our administration recognizes the sacrifices you are making in leaving your homes and families to serve in different parts of the country. By increasing your allowances, we are demonstrating our commitment to your welfare and encouraging you to give your best to Enugu State during your service year,” the governor said.
He further noted that corps members play a crucial role in education, healthcare, agriculture, and grassroots development in the state, stressing that their impact has been “indispensable and worthy of greater support.”
Reactions from Corps Members
The announcement was met with jubilation among corps members, many of whom described the increment as a “lifeline in hard times”, especially given the rising cost of living across Nigeria.
A serving corps member, Grace Okechukwu, expressed gratitude:
“This is the best news we’ve heard since camp began. With ₦20,000 monthly, at least we can manage transportation, feeding, and some personal expenses without putting too much pressure on our families.”
Another corps member, Musa Abdul, added that the gesture would motivate them to serve more diligently in their primary places of assignment, whether in schools, hospitals, or rural communities.
Broader Implications
Governor Mbah’s decision places Enugu among the most corps-friendly states in Nigeria. In many states, corps members still receive between ₦5,000 and ₦15,000 monthly as state support, in addition to the federal government’s NYSC allowance.
Analysts believe that this move could set a precedent for other governors to follow, especially as inflation and economic realities continue to erode the value of money for young Nigerians.
NYSC Management Applauds the Move
Officials of the NYSC scheme present at the announcement commended the governor for what they described as an “unprecedented show of support” for the corps members. They assured that the increment would not only enhance morale but also strengthen the reputation of Enugu State as a welcoming and youth-friendly environment.
Conclusion
The upward review of the allowance is expected to immediately improve the welfare of over 3,000 corps members currently serving in Enugu State. It also sends a strong signal of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration’s focus on youth empowerment, human capital development, and inclusive governance.
With this gesture, Enugu appears poised to become a preferred posting destination for corps members nationwide.
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