…Moves pay from ₦4,000 to ₦50,000
Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has approved a 1,150% increase in the monthly allowance of members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving in the state, raising it from ₦4,000 to ₦50,000.
The Governor also approved the implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for health workers across the state.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, corps members serving in Abia will now receive a base allowance of ₦20,000 monthly. Those posted to state government establishments will get an additional ₦10,000, while those serving as teaching or medical personnel will receive an extra ₦30,000.
With the Federal Government’s enhanced NYSC allowance of ₦77,000, an average corps member serving in Abia now takes home about ₦90,000 monthly.
The statement explained that the adjustment — the first in 27 years — reflects Governor Otti’s commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development in the state.
“This move is designed to motivate corps members and bridge the human capacity gap created by decades of neglect and attrition in both the education and health sectors,” the statement said.
It added that the gesture aligns with the Governor’s broader reforms to improve the welfare and working conditions of corps members in the state.
“From renovating the NYSC Orientation Camp in Bende LGA to providing logistics and power infrastructure, the state government has consistently demonstrated its value for the contributions of corps members in its transformational journey,” the statement noted.
It further stated that, although NYSC camps belong to the Federal Government, Governor Otti believes every institution or infrastructure within Abia deserves attention, since “it’s Abians who benefit the most.”
“Just as Governor Otti believes taxation is government’s share of the prosperity it helps create, he equally believes investing in talent and reaping the rewards is the foundation for sustainable growth,” the statement added.
Highlighting the contributions of corps members to the state’s development, the statement cited Mr. Benson Ojeikere, a former corps member from Edo State who rose through the ranks to become Abia’s Head of Service, as an example of merit-based recognition of talent.
“The latest move sends a clear message: Abia State is serious about empowering youth, rewarding excellence, and building a future where service is truly valued,” it said.
On the implementation of CONHESS, the statement noted that the policy now covers both state and local government health workers, aligning their pay with their federal counterparts and boosting morale across the healthcare sector.
“This strategic wage adjustment is part of a broader vision to build institutional capacity in key sectors like healthcare and education. With 35% of the state’s budget dedicated to these two pillars, Governor Otti is laying the groundwork for a robust, well-equipped, and future-ready public service,” it concluded.
