The Federal Government has assured that the newly approved monthly allowance of N77,000 will be disbursed to Corps members, despite experiencing delays for several months.
Additionally, the government has refuted claims of any disciplinary actions against Corps member Ushie Uguamaye, who recently criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on social media.
Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande reiterated the government’s promise to Corps members during a national television program in Lagos. He stated, “We will address the backlog and ensure payments are made. While it might not be immediate, it will happen. The new DG has confirmed that payments are forthcoming, and he assured that they have the necessary details.”
In September of last year, the government announced an increase in the allowance for Corps members from N33,000 to N77,000, in accordance with the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024. However, six months later, Corps members have yet to receive this payment.
Last week, Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, reassured Corps members that payments would commence this month. Olawande supported this statement, attributing the delay to administrative and budgetary processes. He explained, “I’ve mentioned this before—it’s a process. When the president made the announcement, it wasn’t included in the budget, and salary payments require budget appropriations.”
The minister noted that the necessary approvals have now been finalized, stating, “The budget allocation has been completed, approved, and signed, so payments can begin.”
Regarding Uguamaye, Olawande rejected the notion that she is facing disciplinary measures or threats, stating, “She has not been threatened. No disciplinary panel has been convened against her, nor will she face any repercussions.”
He emphasized that young people, and all citizens, have the right to free speech, and he himself has benefited from such freedoms. Olawande mentioned that President Tinubu has faced various criticisms, indicating that Uguamaye’s situation is not unique.
He encouraged citizens to voice their concerns if they are dissatisfied with any issues in the country, affirming, “If someone is uncomfortable with a situation, they should not hesitate to speak out.”
