Abia and Edo states have taken different paths in addressing corps members’ welfare as NYSC begins.
Abia pledged stipends for service members, while Edo officials decried poor support and conditions.
Two states, Abia and Edo, presented contrasting approaches to the welfare of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members as the 2025 Batch “B” Stream I orientation commenced across Nigeria.
In Abia State, Governor Alex Otti announced plans to begin monthly stipends for corps members posted to state-owned institutions. The governor, represented by Mrs. Nnanna Nkele Onu at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Umunna, Bende Local Government Area, pledged the official opening of the orientation course.
Otti said the initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to improving youth welfare and addressing current economic realities.
“We are making plans to start paying a state monthly stipend, and it will be something relative to the current economic realities, most especially to those of you who may be posted to state-owned institutions,” the governor stated.
He encouraged corps members to save wisely, engage productively with their host communities, and make use of opportunities available through NYSC initiatives like the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program.
Meanwhile, in Edo State, NYSC State Coordinator, Dr. Frances Ben-Ushie appealed for urgent government intervention to address the declining welfare of corps members. During the swearing-in ceremony of 1,033 corps members at the Permanent Orientation Camp in Okada, Ovia North-East Local Government Area, she lamented poor conditions in the camp and low morale among participants.
Ben-Ushie attributed the increasing number of relocation requests to non-payment of state allowances, inadequate feeding support, and substandard accommodation.
“Resolving these issues will greatly enhance the effectiveness of the orientation program and other NYSC activities in Edo State for greater impact,” she said.
She further highlighted the lack of a multipurpose hall, encroachment on camp land due to inadequate fencing, and poor facilities for the SAED program as areas needing immediate attention.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by Mrs. Anthonia Odia from the Ministry of Youth Development, assured corps members of the state’s commitment to their welfare and security. He encouraged them to explore the state’s growing sectors: agriculture, tourism, education, and technology.
“As 21st-century graduates, you have access to unparalleled opportunities. The SAED programme is tailored to help you harness these,” he said.
While Abia’s planned stipend policy received praise from corps members and officials alike, NYSC leaders in Edo reiterated their call for improved infrastructure and consistent financial support to help corps members serve more effectively.
