The Jigawa State Government has announced plans to increase the N5,000 monthly allowance paid to National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, members serving in the state to cushion the effects of rising inflation.
Governor Umar Namadi disclosed this while addressing Batch C corps members at the Yakubu Gowon NYSC Orientation Camp in Fanisau, Dutse.
Namadi said the proposed increase was intended to help corps members cope with rising living costs, adding that the state government recognised their contributions to communities across Jigawa.
“We are aware of your contributions in our communities. Therefore, we will look into and review your monthly allowance to help you manage the effects of recent inflation,” the governor said.
He commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for increasing the federal monthly allowance for corps members to N77,000, assuring them that the Jigawa Government would also review its own payment.
“On our part, we will follow the footsteps of the Federal Government to review and increase your monthly state allowance,” he added.
The governor also announced a one-off payment of N10,000 to each corps member at the end of the three-week orientation programme to assist with transportation and other expenses associated with moving to their primary places of assignment.
“We will also give each of you N10,000 so that when you are posted to your various primary places of assignment, you will have something in your pocket,” Namadi said.
He urged ministries, departments and agencies to make adequate arrangements to receive corps members posted to their offices and ensure a smooth transition from the orientation camp.
Namadi further pledged to renovate the NYSC orientation camp, construct a new hall and provide a standby generator to improve facilities and ensure reliable power supply.
He said the planned improvements were part of efforts to enhance the welfare of corps members and provide a more conducive environment.
Describing Jigawa as a peaceful state with hospitable residents, Namadi encouraged the corps members to integrate into their host communities, respect local customs and contribute meaningfully to grassroots development.
He congratulated the Batch C corps members on their deployment to the state and wished them a successful service year.