Several National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members have appealed to President Bola Tinubu for a reconsideration of the allowances provided to corps members across the nation’s 36 states. Expressing their concerns about the soaring cost of living, they highlighted the necessity for an adjustment in their allowances to cope with economic realities.
In an open letter addressed to the President and obtained by PUNCH Online, members of the group “Concerned Corp Members” emphasized the financial strain they face due to escalating living costs. They cited the inadequacy of the current monthly allowance of N33,000, stating that it fails to meet basic needs and forces them to seek additional income through menial jobs.
“We respectfully advocate for the inclusion of NYSC corps members in recent wage increment initiatives,” the letter stated. “As young graduates committed to a year of selfless service to our nation, we play pivotal roles in various sectors contributing to national development. However, the escalating prices of goods and services have made survival increasingly challenging.”
The letter further highlighted the adverse effects of the economic situation, describing how many corps members are compelled to resort to risky activities such as fetching water from streams and rendering services on farms in exchange for food. They urged both the government and the NYSC authority to address their plight and improve work conditions at their primary assignments.
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Responding to inquiries, NYSC Director of Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, assured that the concerns raised by corps members would be given due consideration. He emphasized the government’s commitment to alleviating the suffering of citizens, including corps members, amidst prevailing economic challenges.
“While it is not within the purview of the NYSC to increase corps members’ allowances, the government acknowledges their plight,” Megwa stated. “As a youth-friendly administration, measures will be taken to address their concerns in line with broader efforts to improve the welfare of civil servants.”
In light of the ongoing economic hardship, corps members remain hopeful that their appeal for a review of allowances will yield positive outcomes, providing much-needed relief in their service to the nation.
