Akwa Ibom Gov. Umo Eno Approves ₦20,000 Monthly Allowance for NYSC Corps Members

Gov. Umo Eno Approves ₦20,000 Monthly Allowance for NYSC Corps Members in Akwa Ibom

Uyo, Nigeria — July 2025.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved a significant increase in the monthly state allowance for National Youth Service Corps(NYSC) members serving in the state. The new allowance, set at ₦20,000, will take effect from August 1, 2025, marking a major boost from the previous ₦5,000 stipend.

Governor Eno, while making the announcement at the Government House in Uyo, explained that the decision was part of his administration’s youth empowerment agenda under the ARISE Initiative, designed to support young people and ease their financial burdens during the one-year national service.

“Our corps members contribute immensely to education, health, rural development, and community service in Akwa Ibom. This allowance is not just a token—it is our way of appreciating their service and helping them meet today’s economic realities,” the governor said.

Extension to Akwa Ibom Indigenes Nationwide

In addition to corps members deployed to Akwa Ibom, the governor also approved a ₦20,000 monthly grant for all Akwa Ibom indigenes serving across Nigeria, regardless of where they were posted. This is aimed at ensuring that young Akwa Ibom citizens in the NYSC scheme benefit equally, whether they are serving in the state or outside.

Federal Allowance + State Support

Currently, the Federal Government pays NYSC members ₦77,000 monthly following the implementation of the new minimum wage. With the additional support from Akwa Ibom State, corps members of Akwa Ibom origin or those serving within the state will now receive a combined monthly package of ₦97,000.

Reactions from Corps Members

The announcement has been met with excitement among corps members. Many described it as a welcome relief amid Nigeria’s rising cost of living.

A serving corps member in Uyo, Blessing Ufot, said:

“This is the first time I feel truly recognized for the work we do. The allowance will go a long way in reducing our struggles with accommodation, transportation, and feeding.”

Setting the Pace Among States

Akwa Ibom now joins a handful of Nigerian states that provide additional allowances to corps members, though the ₦20,000 monthly grant makes it one of the most generous in the country. Analysts believe the move could set a new standard for other state governments in supporting NYSC members.

Looking Ahead

Governor Eno reaffirmed his commitment to investing in human capital development and pledged to continue creating opportunities that will encourage young people to remain productive during and after their national service year.

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