Ogun Pays Corps Members ₦50,000 Each, Donates 500 Mattresses

The Ogun State Government has begun disbursing a one-off welfare palliative of ₦50,000 to each of the 3,050 members of the 2026 Batch C, Stream I of the National Youth Service Corps currently at the orientation camp in Sagamu.

The payment, approved by Governor Dapo Abiodun, is intended to ease the financial pressures facing the young graduates amid prevailing economic challenges. Disbursement started on Monday, 19 October. If fully paid out, the package will cost the state approximately ₦152.5 million.

In a statement, Commissioner for Sports Development Wasiu Isiaka said the support recognises the contributions of corps members to national development and aims to improve their comfort and well-being as they begin the service year. Many of the corps members are living away from their families for the first time and face various personal expenses during orientation.

Alongside the cash, the government has approved the donation of 500 mattresses to the Sagamu camp. Officials cited a rise in the number of corps members posted to Ogun as the reason for the additional investment in accommodation. The camp, located at the Gateway International Stadium complex, has previously experienced pressure on facilities, including bedding shortages noted in earlier batches.

The Abiodun administration described the dual intervention as part of its broader commitment to youth welfare and the NYSC scheme. The scheme is seen as important for promoting national unity, cultural integration, leadership development and community service. Corps members contribute to education, healthcare and local development projects in their host communities.

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The government urged the corps members to uphold discipline, patriotism, tolerance and selfless service, and to make the most of the opportunities the NYSC year offers.

The move comes shortly after the formal opening and swearing-in of the batch earlier in October, when the state reiterated its support for creating an enabling environment for the young participants.