Postgraduate scholarship for honourees and automatic federal jobs granted by Tinubu to 200 NYSC members, including 10 physically challenged awardees

President Bola Tinubu has approved a postgraduate scholarship for honourees and automatic employment in the federal civil service for 200 outstanding National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members across four service years.

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The beneficiaries include 10 physically challenged former corps members who sustained injuries while serving the country.

The President also awarded each recipient a cash prize of ₦250,000 at the combined 2020–2023 NYSC Honours Award ceremony held in Abuja.

Represented by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Tinubu said the recognition was a tribute to the recipients’ discipline, patriotism, and national service.

“The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission will immediately begin your employment process,” the President stated.

He added, “We will never forget their sacrifice. Each award recipient will receive ₦250,000 and a scholarship to pursue postgraduate programmes up to PhD level in any Nigerian university.”

The announcement of the postgraduate scholarship for honourees drew commendation from youth advocates and government officials alike.

The President affirmed his administration’s unwavering support for youth development through education, digital skills, and innovation.

We will never forget their sacrifice. Each award recipient will receive ₦250,000 and a scholarship to pursue postgraduate programmes up to PhD level.

“To put our youth in the foreground of our economy, the government has developed several youth-related programmes covering education, skills development, technology, and information sustainability,” he noted.

Among those honoured were standout male corps members such as Nunaya Polycarp Nunaya (20B, Adamawa/Kwara), Okpogbo Alvin Chinedu (21A, Imo/Cross River), Dr. Ugwa Obinna Mark (23B, Abia/Cross River), and Rabiu Quadri Mayokun (23C, Osun/Rivers).

The female honourees included Akase Pati Ence Nguwasen (21A, Benue/Gombe) and Igwe Anne Chikaodi (23C, Enugu/Sokoto), all praised for excellence in their places of primary assignment.

Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande hailed the awardees as national assets and praised President Tinubu for his consistency in advancing youth empowerment.

“Each outstanding honouree here today exemplifies the very best of what our youth can achieve. Their positive character and commitment have made them true role models, inspiring others nationwide,” Olawande said.

He also lauded the upward review of NYSC allowances from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000, calling it a timely response to the cost-of-living crisis and a reflection of policy integrity rather than politics.

Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier-General Y.D. Olakunle Nafiu, praised the President’s youth-centred initiatives, describing Nigerian youth as “a vital force for our collective progress and preservation of our social, cultural, and national heritage”.

According to him, the improved allowance had “boosted morale and strengthened corps members’ commitment,” ensuring that the NYSC scheme remains an engine of national cohesion.

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The postgraduate scholarship for honourees is expected to open academic opportunities for the awardees while also placing them in strategic public service roles that align with their demonstrated commitment to national development.