NYSC Allowance News Today 2025 – N77,000 Update, Arrears Payment & Minimum Wage Explained
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has been part of Nigeria’s development since 1973. It is a one-year program for Nigerian graduates under the age of 30. During this time, each corps member receives a monthly allowance to support their living costs.
In 2025, many corps members are talking about the new N77,000 NYSC allowance and the arrears from past months. This article explains the current situation, including allowance payments, minimum wage confusion, and when the unpaid arrears may be received.
NYSC Allowance: What Has Changed
The NYSC allowance has gone through many changes over the years.
- In 2020, the monthly allowance increased from N19,800 to N33,000, after the new N30,000 minimum wage was approved.
- In July 2024, the minimum wage was raised to N70,000.
- Later, on September 25, 2024, the Federal Government increased the NYSC allowance to N77,000, effective from July 2024.
This means corps members were supposed to start getting N77,000 from July 2024, but many continued receiving only N33,000 until March 2025.
Arrears Explained
Because the new N77,000 allowance started from July 2024, but was not paid on time, many corps members are owed arrears. Arrears are the difference between the old rate (N33,000) and the new rate (N77,000), which is N44,000 per month.
If a corps member served from July 2024 to February 2025, they are owed:
- N44,000 x 8 months = N352,000
Some people expected a lump-sum payment (like N165,000 for two months of arrears plus one new allowance), but many only got N33,000 in September 2024.
Minimum Wage vs. NYSC Allowance
Many people think NYSC members must receive the minimum wage. This is not true.
- Minimum wage (N70,000) is for workers and employees
- NYSC members are not workers; they are serving the nation
- The NYSC allowance is a stipend, not a salary
So, when people say “minimum wage arrears” for NYSC, that is wrong. The correct term is allowance arrears, not salary arrears.
Latest Update on Arrears Payment
On April 3, 2025, NYSC Director-General Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu said that:
- All arrears will be paid
- Even former corps members who finished service will be included
- The payment will depend on available funds
- The Federal Government has budgeted N430.7 billion for NYSC in 2025
- Out of this, N372.9 billion is for allowances
- This should cover the arrears and the new N77,000 rate
So far, no exact date has been given for when everyone will get their arrears, but NYSC says the process is ongoing.
Why This Allowance Increase Matters
The increase to N77,000 is good news because:
- It helps corps members deal with rising living costs
- It shows the government is trying to support Nigerian youth
- It gives corps members better purchasing power
However, the delay in payment has caused frustration. Many corps members have posted online asking for quick action. Some say they cannot afford transport or basic needs while waiting for the arrears.
Summary Table – NYSC Allowance and Arrears
| Item | Amount (Naira) | Effective Date / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Old NYSC Allowance | 33,000 | Paid until March 2025 for many members |
| New NYSC Allowance | 77,000 | Backdated from July 2024, paid from March 2025 |
| Minimum Wage (for workers) | 70,000 | From July 29, 2024 – not for NYSC members |
| Monthly Arrears | 44,000 | Difference between N77,000 and N33,000 |
| Arrears Period | 8 months (Jul–Feb) | Up to N352,000 owed for full 8 months |
What Corps Members Should Do Now
- Check your NYSC dashboard regularly for payment updates
- Keep your bank details correct
- Stay patient, as NYSC and the Accountant-General’s office work on the payment
- Follow official NYSC social media pages for the latest news
- Do not believe rumors or pay anyone for help
Conclusion
The NYSC allowance has been increased to N77,000 per month, higher than the current N70,000 minimum wage. But many corps members are still waiting for their arrears, which is the unpaid difference for months served since July 2024.
As of April 5, 2025, NYSC has promised to pay these arrears soon. While it may take time, the money will be paid as part of the 2025 budget.
Corps members should stay calm, follow updates from official NYSC sources, and avoid fake news. The allowance increase is a strong sign that the government values the role of youth in national service.
Sources: Official NYSC statements, Federal Government budget reports, and media updates as of April 5, 2025.