…….champions Youth Empowerment.
FIC Report (Abia State) – In line with the Federal Government’s recent upward review of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) monthly allowance to ₦77,000, the Abia State Government has taken a bold complementary step to further enhance corps members’ welfare. Governor Alex Otti, OFR, has approved a substantial increase in the State’s monthly allowance for corps members serving in Abia — from a stagnant ₦4,000 to as much as ₦50,000.
Under the new arrangement, all Corps Members serving in Abia State will now earn a base allowance of ₦20,000, while those deployed to State Government Establishments will receive an additional ₦10,000. Teaching and Medical Corps Members will enjoy a higher discriminatory allowance of ₦30,000, designed to motivate professionals in these critical sectors and close the human capacity gap created by decades of neglect and attrition.
This is the first major review of NYSC welfare in Abia in 27 years, underscoring Governor Otti’s commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development. The gesture not only complements the Federal Government’s efforts but also reinforces the Governor’s vision of a New Abia where talent is nurtured and rewarded.
Beyond allowances, Governor Otti’s administration has invested heavily in upgrading the NYSC Orientation Camp in Bende Local Government Area — a Federal facility. From renovating internal roads and installing new power infrastructure to refurbishing hostels and administrative blocks, the State Government has demonstrated that every institution within Abia, whether federal or state-owned, deserves attention — because ultimately, it is Abians who benefit.
Governor Otti’s philosophy is simple: Government should invest in people and reap the dividends of their contribution. Corps Members have long played a key role in Abia’s development, particularly in vital sectors such as Law, Engineering, Medicine, and Education. A shining example is Mr. Benson Ojeikere, a former Corps Member from Edo State who was retained after service and rose through the ranks to become the State’s Head of Service — proof of the State’s tradition of merit-based advancement.
This latest policy further illustrates the Otti administration’s unwavering support for youth, excellence, and service. It aligns seamlessly with his earlier decision to implement the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) across both State and Local Government levels — a move that brought Abia’s healthcare workforce to parity with their federal counterparts.
With 35% of the State’s annual budget dedicated to Education and Health, the Otti-led government is deliberately laying the foundation for a resilient, world-class public service. By aligning State policies with Federal initiatives, Abia continues to set the pace for sustainable human capital development and inclusive governance.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify HOC, FIC Umuahia Abia State .
November 7 2025.
