Sokoto State’s Governor, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, has announced a significant increase in the monthly allowance for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving in Sokoto State. The governor’s decision to double the allowance from N5,000 to N10,000 showcases his commitment to supporting young professionals in navigating the current economic challenges.
This generous announcement was made during the joint orientation exercise for corps members assigned to Sokoto and Zamfara states, held at the NYSC temporary orientation camp in Farfaru, Sokoto. The occasion also marked the swearing-in of Batch ‘A’ stream 1 corps members.
Governor Aliyu articulated his decision as a response to the prevailing economic realities and the critical role the NYSC scheme plays in fostering national and state development. “Recognizing the importance of the NYSC scheme in building our nation and supporting our youth, we’ve decided to increase the allowance, providing a bit more financial breathing room for our corps members,” stated Aliyu.
In addition to the allowance increment, Governor Aliyu extended a warm welcome to the new corps members by donating N10,000 to each individual undergoing the orientation exercise as a gesture of goodwill. He encouraged the corps members to uphold the highest standards of behavior, embrace unity, and see beyond ethnic and religious divides, fostering a spirit of ‘One Nigeria.’
The governor reassured corps members and stakeholders of his administration’s unwavering support for the NYSC scheme, emphasizing the priority placed on security and welfare to ensure a conducive environment for their service year.
Echoing the governor’s sentiments, the Chairperson of the NYSC Governing Board and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youths, Sport, and Social Development, Muhammad Bello, called upon the corps members to exhibit discipline throughout their service year. Bello highlighted the regimental nature of camp activities, stressing the importance of discipline in adapting to the daily routines and securing the potential for recognition through the scheme’s local, state, and national awards.
State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mr. Usman Yaro, expressed his gratitude to Governor Aliyu for his consistent support of the NYSC program in Sokoto State. Yaro also acknowledged the contributions of the Nigerian Army, police, civil defence, other paramilitary organizations, and stakeholders in ensuring the successful conduct of the orientation exercise.
The event culminated in the administration of the national and NYSC oaths to the corps members, a pivotal moment marking the beginning of their service journey, officiated by the state Chief Judge, Justice Muhammad Saidu Sifawa, represented by Justice Ibrahim Tambuwal.
Governor Aliyu’s decision to increase the NYSC allowance in Sokoto State is a testament to his administration’s dedication to youth empowerment and development. It sets a positive precedent for other states to follow, highlighting the importance of supporting young Nigerians as they contribute to national development through the NYSC scheme.
