Ex-Corps Members Rejoice as FG Begins Payment of N44,000 Minimum Wage Arrears
The Federal Government has commenced payment of the N44,000 minimum wage arrears to former members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), fulfilling an earlier promise linked to the recent upward revision of the monthly allowance for serving corps members.
The payment aims to balance the difference following the recent increase in the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000, which also saw the monthly NYSC allowance rise from N33,000 to N77,000 for serving corps members.
The increase was approved by President Bola Tinubu in July, but many former corps members had been awaiting their arrears after months of delay.
Reactions from former corps members, gathered from X (formerly Twitter), varied widely. Some expressed relief and gratitude, while others remained sceptical, questioning if the payment was a genuine move by the government.
One former corps member, Akinwale Johnson, wrote: “Finally! This payment is long overdue. Thanks to the government for keeping their word.”
Meanwhile, another user, Blessing Okoro, posted: “Received mine this morning. God bless Nigeria and the leaders.”
However, not all were convinced. A former corps member, Ifeanyi Eze, questioned: “Is this for real? I haven’t seen any alert yet. Hope it’s not just rumours.”
Similarly, Adeola Musa added: “Still waiting on my payment. Wondering if this is only for a select batch.”
Others like Chinedu Nwosu shared: “Got my arrears today. It’s a good start, but more must be done to support corps members.”
The Ministry of Youth and Sports had earlier announced the allowance increase, but the payment of arrears to former members remained unclear until this recent development.
While some ex-corps members confirmed receiving the N44,000 arrears, others from recent batches said they had yet to receive any funds.
It remains unclear whether this payment covers all months prior to the allowance revision or is a partial settlement.
Attempts to obtain official comment from the NYSC on the disbursement plan were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
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