Abia State Governor Alex Otti has announced a significant hike in the monthly allowances for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in the state, raising payments from ₦4,000 to as much as ₦50,000. Under the new structure, all corps members will receive a base monthly allowance of ₦20,000. Those posted to state government offices will earn an additional ₦10,000, while medical and teaching corps members will get a further ₦30,000 per month. The increase was confirmed on Friday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Njoku Ukoha, who said the adjustment complements the Federal Government’s new NYSC allowance of ₦77,000. He explained that the move is part of Governor Otti’s broader plan to strengthen youth empowerment and public sector capacity in Abia. “This is the first major increment in 27 years, highlighting Governor Otti’s commitment to workforce development and supporting young professionals in the state,” Ukoha said. The statement also highlighted other initiatives by the Otti administration, including the renovation of the NYSC Orientation Camp in Bende LGA, upgrading internal roads, improving power infrastructure, and modernizing camp facilities—even though the camp is federal property. “Every institution in Abia, whether federal or state-owned, deserves attention because it directly benefits Abians,” Ukoha noted. Governor Otti’s reforms also extend to the healthcare sector. The state recently implemented the Consolidated Health Salary Structure for health workers and local government employees, aligning their pay with federal standards to boost morale and productivity. The administration allocates roughly 35 per cent of the state budget to healthcare and education, which are considered critical to human capital development. The allowance hike is aimed at making service in Abia more rewarding and encouraging young professionals to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development. “This decision sends a clear message that Abia State is serious about empowering youth, rewarding excellence, and ensuring service is valued,” the statement said. With this new policy, Abia now ranks among the top states offering the highest monthly stipends to NYSC members. By comparison, Adamawa State recently raised its NYSC allowance from ₦20,000 to ₦30,000, as announced by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri during the swearing-in of the 2025 Batch B Stream I corps members at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Damare, Girei LGA. “We are committed to improving the welfare of corps members and creating a supportive environment for your service,” Fintiri stated.
