The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is urging President Bola Tinubu to raise the monthly allowance for participants in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to ₦77,000. NANS argues that this adjustment is necessary to help young graduates cope with the rising cost of living and economic challenges in the country.
NANS, representing millions of Nigerian students, emphasized the importance of the NYSC scheme as a tool for national integration and youth development. However, the current allowance, set at ₦33,000, is deemed insufficient to meet the needs of participants, given the current economic realities.
The call for an increase comes amid broader discussions about the financial challenges facing young Nigerians entering the workforce. Inflation and the rising cost of essential goods have eroded the purchasing power of the current allowance, making it difficult for graduates to cover basic expenses during their service year.
NANS President Emeka D. Akpan stated that increasing the allowance would not only alleviate financial burdens but also enhance the morale of the youth participating in the program. “The youth are the backbone of our nation’s future, and it is crucial that they are adequately supported during this transition phase,” Akpan said.
The proposal has sparked a wider conversation about the role of the government in supporting young professionals. Many graduates view the NYSC as an opportunity to gain valuable work experience and contribute to national development, but financial constraints can hinder their ability to focus fully on these objectives.
Rising unemployment and limited job opportunities have further complicated the economic landscape for Nigerian youth. NANS believes that a higher allowance would offer temporary relief and motivate more young people to engage in national service with enthusiasm.
While the government has yet to respond to NANS’s proposal, the call for an allowance increase has received support from various stakeholders, including educators and parents. Many see it as a positive step toward recognizing the contributions of young Nigerians to the country’s growth and development.
Experts suggest that the government should consider a comprehensive review of the NYSC scheme, taking into account the evolving needs of participants and the economic challenges they face. By aligning the allowance with current economic conditions, the government can demonstrate its commitment to empowering young Nigerians and fostering a supportive environment for their development.
Despite the challenges, there is optimism that constructive dialogue between the government and student representatives will lead to positive outcomes. NANS remains hopeful that President Tinubu’s administration will take decisive action to address the concerns of young graduates and ensure that the NYSC continues to be a valuable program for youth empowerment.
As discussions continue, there is a sense of hope and anticipation among NYSC participants and future graduates. Many are looking forward to potential policy changes that will enhance their experience and provide them with the support they need to thrive in their service year and beyond.
