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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 N4,000 to as much as N50,000. According to a statement issued on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Njoku Ukoha, the new structure provides a N20,000 base allowance for all corps members serving in Abia. Those deployed to state government establishments will receive an additional N10,000, while medical and teaching corps members will earn an extra N30,000 monthly. Ukoha explained that the increment complements the Federal Government’s new N77,000 monthly NYSC allowance and aligns with Governor Otti’s broader policy to strengthen youth empowerment and public sector capacity in the state. “This marks the first major adjustment after 27 years, reflecting Governor Otti’s commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development in Abia,” the statement said. The government noted that the gesture is part of ongoing reforms to make service more rewarding for corps members and to encourage young professionals to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development. The statement added that Otti’s administration has consistently supported corps members by upgrading the NYSC Orientation Camp in Bende Local Government Area — improving internal roads, power supply, and facilities despite the camp 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 stated. Otti’s government has also implemented the Consolidated Health Salary Structure for health workers across the state and extended it to local government employees to align with federal standards, aiming to boost morale and productivity. About 35 per cent of the state’s budget is reportedly allocated to healthcare and education, sectors the administration describes as “pillars of institutional capacity and human capital 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 added. ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
