Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has approved a significant increase in monthly allowances for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving in the state, raising the payment from ₦4,000 to as much as ₦50,000.
The new structure, announced in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Njoku Ukoha, on Friday, introduces a ₦20,000 base allowance for all corps members serving in Abia.
In addition, corps members posted to state government establishments will receive an extra ₦10,000, while those serving as medical or teaching personnel will earn an additional ₦30,000 monthly.
Ukoha explained that the increment complements the Federal Government’s ₦77,000 monthly NYSC allowance and aligns with Otti’s broader strategy to empower youth and strengthen the state’s public workforce.
“This marks the first major adjustment in 27 years and reflects Governor Otti’s commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development in Abia,” the statement read.
According to the CPS, the governor has consistently demonstrated support for corps members through the renovation of the NYSC Orientation Camp in Bende Local Government Area, rehabilitation of internal roads, and installation of power and other infrastructure within the camp despite it being a federal property.
“The governor believes that every institution or infrastructure within Abia, whether federal or state-owned, deserves attention because it is Abians who benefit the most,” Ukoha added.
He recalled that the administration had also implemented the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for health workers and extended it to local government employees, aligning their pay with federal standards to boost morale and productivity.
About 35 per cent of Abia’s budget is currently dedicated to healthcare and education sectors Otti described as “pillars of institutional capacity and human capital development.”
The governor said the new allowance structure was designed to make service more rewarding and attract young professionals to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
“Governor Otti’s latest move sends a clear message: Abia State is serious about empowering youth, rewarding excellence, and building a future where service is truly valued,” the statement concluded.
With this increment, Abia State now ranks among the highest-paying states for NYSC members in Nigeria.
In comparison, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri had announced in August an increase in corps members’ allowance from ₦20,000 to ₦30,000, pledging continued support for their welfare.
