Serving NYSC Members
In a significant move to support national youth service participants, the Executive Chairman of Urue-Offong/Oruko Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, Chief Uno Etim, has approved a monthly stipend of ₦20,000 for every National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member currently serving in the council area. The announcement was made on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the corps members to the local government headquarters.
Chief Uno disclosed that the stipend would take immediate effect, underscoring his administration’s commitment to the welfare of young Nigerians posted to the area. “For the corps members serving here, we have approved a monthly stipend of ₦20,000 for each of the corps members, and the payment takes immediate effect,” he stated.
He urged the corps members to regard Urue-Offong/Oruko as their home throughout their service year, assuring them of the necessary support to enable them discharge their responsibilities effectively. The chairman also addressed accommodation and welfare concerns, directing the Works Department to inspect the corps members’ lodges and identify areas needing renovation or other interventions.
Describing the stipend as a practical expression of support, Chief Uno explained that the gesture aims to encourage the young graduates who have been deployed to contribute their time, skills, and energy toward the development of the local government. He further assured the corps members that their safety, welfare, and peaceful service remain top priorities of his administration.
Speaking on behalf of the NYSC members, Community Liaison Officer Ukachukwu Ifeanyi expressed gratitude to the council chairman. He appreciated the development initiatives already being implemented across the area under the current leadership.
The approval comes at a time when many local governments and state authorities continue to explore ways of complementing the federal NYSC allowance to ease the financial burden on corps members, particularly those serving in rural or semi-urban communities. By providing an additional ₦20,000 monthly, Urue-Offong/Oruko LGA seeks to improve the living conditions of the serving youth and motivate greater commitment to community development projects.
This welfare package is expected to enhance the overall experience of the corps members while fostering stronger ties between the local administration and the young professionals contributing to grassroots progress in Akwa Ibom State.