FG Begins Payment of N44,000 NYSC Arrears to Ex-Corps Members

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially begun the disbursement of ₦44,000 in arrears to former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, fulfilling a long-awaited promise tied to the recent increase in the corps members' monthly allowance.

The development comes after weeks of speculation and anticipation, as many ex-corps members eagerly awaited the implementation of the new minimum wage policy and its retroactive effect.

In July 2024, the Nigerian government approved a new minimum wage package, which included an increase in the monthly NYSC allowance — popularly known as allawee — from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000. The announcement was widely welcomed as a positive step toward easing the financial burden on young Nigerians during their compulsory one-year national service.

However, those who had completed their service just before the effective date of the new wage policy were left in limbo. The FG promised to compensate these individuals with a one-time payment, representing the difference between the old and new allowance over the remaining months of their expected service year — which now comes in the form of the ₦44,000 arrears.

Several former corps members have taken to social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), to confirm they have begun receiving payments. Many shared screenshots of credit alerts and expressed both surprise and gratitude.

“It’s now confirmed. People are now getting their NYSC arrears,” tweeted @ayodeji_taoheed.
“So I guess this is how it will be flying in monthly. We are getting there bit by bit.”
Another user, @DrDbanks345, wrote: “It’s true. My friend just received his now.”

@Kennyadefulu also chimed in with multiple confirmations: “The 44k arrears for the outgone NYSC Corp members is real. I've gotten 3 receipts as it's dropping on my GC. Zenith, Signature, and First Bank!”

The social media buzz has helped validate the payments, boosting public confidence in the implementation of the wage reforms.

The ₦44,000 payment applies to corps members who concluded their NYSC service before the new allowance policy took effect in early 2025. It does not apply to those who are currently serving under the new ₦77,000 structure.

According to information, no application is required, as the payment is being automatically processed to the account details submitted during the corps members’ service year.

While many have received their payments, others are still waiting. Some banks may experience processing delays due to transaction traffic. Ex-corps members are advised to remain patient and monitor their accounts over the coming days.

The payment is a welcome relief for many young Nigerians who are navigating a difficult economic climate marked by inflation, rising cost of living, and limited job opportunities. For most, the ₦44,000 payout is more than symbolic — it's a timely financial cushion.

The commencement of the ₦44,000 arrears payment to ex-NYSC members marks a positive fulfilment of a federal promise, and a small but meaningful gesture to acknowledge the sacrifice and patience of Nigerian youth. While minor delays may occur, the response so far indicates that the process is well underway.

As the federal government continues to push broader minimum wage reforms, this move may set a new precedent for how policy changes are handled with respect to those affected retroactively.