Gov Eno Increases State Allowance for Corps Members to ₦20,000 Monthly

 Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has approved a significant increase in the monthly state allowance for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, raising it from ₦5,000 to ₦20,000, effective July 6, 2025. 

The announcement, made during the 2025 Batch B Orientation Camp closing ceremony in Ikot Itie Idang, aims to support the 2,500 corps members serving across the state’s 31 local government areas. Eno described the hike as a fulfillment of his 2023 campaign promise to enhance youth welfare, noting that the previous rate, unchanged since 2011, was inadequate amid 33% national inflation.

The new allowance, funded through a reallocated N300 million from the state’s N500 billion 2025 budget, adds to the federal ₦33,000 stipend, bringing total monthly earnings to ₦53,000. Corps members, who undertake community development projects like building 10 schools and 5 boreholes in 2024, welcomed the move, with 70% expressing relief from financial strain. 

The NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Okorie Affia, praised Eno’s initiative, but critics argue the state’s N1.2 trillion debt limits sustainability. Plans for a ₦50 million skills training program by December aim to complement the increase, boosting employability.