The Nigerian Federal Government has officially started disbursing N44,000 arrears to National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who served between July 2024 and February 2025. This long-awaited payment began in June 2025 and has already reflected in the bank accounts of many former corps members.
The payment follows the new NYSC allowance of N77,000 monthly, approved after the September 2024 minimum wage update. However, due to implementation delays, many corps members continued receiving the old N33,000 until March 2025. The arrears now cover that difference.
Why Is FG Paying N44,000 to Ex-Corps Members?
The FG increased the minimum wage to N70,000 in September 2024, which led to the upgrade of the NYSC allowance from N33,000 to N77,000. But implementation didn’t start immediately.
Because corps members continued receiving the old amount until February 2025, the government calculated the difference for the eight-month gap and resolved to pay N44,000 to each affected corps member as backdated arrears.
What Caused the Delay?
The delay in the payment was caused by budgetary and administrative issues. According to Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande, although the approval was made in 2024, there were no funds immediately available for the new allowance.
The payment only became possible once the 2025 national budget was finalized. Since then, both serving corps members and those who already passed out are being scheduled for payment.
Who Is Receiving the N44,000 Arrears?
If you completed your service between July 2024 and February 2025, then you are among the beneficiaries of this FG arrears payment. No fresh application is required. The government is using details already available in the NYSC records to process the payments automatically.
You only need to monitor your bank account or check NYSC’s official social media handles and website for any related updates.
Federal Budget Shows Serious Commitment
To support the improved allowance and smooth running of the scheme, the Federal Government has earmarked N29.54 billion in the 2025 budget for the NYSC. The funding will be used for:
- Feeding and transportation during orientation
- Uniforms and essential kits
- Maintenance of NYSC camps and facilities
- Sporting events and public awareness campaigns
- Training workshops and development programs
This large budget allocation highlights the government’s push to improve the welfare of both serving and ex-corps members.
Future Plans for NYSC
The Federal Government is also working on major reforms to modernize the NYSC scheme. New plans include:
- Creating health and education task units
- Deploying skilled corps members to remote areas
- Introducing entrepreneurship-focused postings
- Enhancing ICT and technical training opportunities
- Reviewing deployment processes for better national impact
A dedicated reform committee is currently working on proposals to reshape the program and align it with national development goals.
What Should You Do If You Are Eligible?
If you are one of the affected members who served between July 2024 and February 2025, here’s what you need to do:
- Check your bank account regularly for payment
- Do not fill out any form or reapply – the payment is automatic
- Follow only NYSC’s verified social media pages or their official website for real updates
- Avoid scammers – don’t share your NYSC or bank details with unofficial sources
It is important to note that the arrears are being paid in batches. So if you haven’t seen the money yet, just stay patient and keep checking. Every eligible person is expected to receive their N44,000 payment.
Final Words
This NYSC arrears payment news marks a big relief for ex-corps members who have been waiting for their rightful benefits. With this payment now underway, it shows that the Federal Government is taking steps to fulfill its promises to Nigerian youths.
For many, this is not just about the money – it’s about being acknowledged and respected for the service they rendered to the country.
So, if you fall under the eligible category, be sure to keep an eye on your account. And most importantly, stay updated through trusted sources only.