According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, the new payment structure provides a flat monthly allowance of ₦20,000 for all Corps members. Those serving in state government establishments will receive an additional ₦10,000, while those in the Teaching and Medical fields will earn an extra ₦30,000.
With the Federal Government’s enhanced NYSC allowance of ₦77,000, Corps members serving in Abia are now expected to take home an average of ₦90,000 monthly.
The statement noted that this marks the first major review of the state allowance in 27 years and reflects Governor Otti’s commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development.
“This initiative aims to motivate Corps members and bridge the human capacity gap created by decades of neglect and attrition in critical sectors,” the statement read.
It added that the Otti administration has also embarked on the renovation of the NYSC Orientation Camp in Bende Local Government Area, including road repairs within the facility, infrastructure upgrades, and installation of power equipment.
“Although NYSC camps are federal facilities, Governor Otti believes every institution in Abia deserves attention, as Abians benefit the most,” the statement said.
The Governor’s office commended the contribution of Corps members to the state’s development, particularly in vital sectors such as Law, Engineering, Medicine, and Education. It cited the example of Benson Ojeikere, a former Corps member from Edo State who rose through the ranks to become Abia’s Head of Service after his service year, as evidence of the state’s commitment to merit-based growth.
Governor Otti also approved the implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for health workers across Abia, including those at the local government level, to align their pay with federal standards and boost morale.
The statement concluded that these reforms form part of a broader strategy to strengthen Abia’s healthcare and education systems, with 35% of the state’s budget dedicated to these sectors—aimed at creating a well-equipped, future-ready public service.
