For many Nigerian graduates, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year is a period of transition, uncertainty, and discovery.
While it is fundamentally a platform for national integration and capacity development, financial stability during this year is equally important.
Among the many questions corps members ask before receiving their posting is: Which is the highest paying NYSC states in Nigeria?
In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore the best-paying NYSC states based on their state allawee, benefits, and general cost of living.
Whether you’re preparing for the next NYSC batch or simply curious, this article gives you an edge in understanding where the money is and how to make the most of it.
What Is NYSC Allowance?
Before we dive into the states, let’s clarify what we mean by NYSC allowance or allawee.
There are two types of allowances corps members receive:
Federal Allowance: This is the monthly stipend paid by the Federal Government of Nigeria. As of 2025, following the newly approved minimum wage, this amount has been increased to ₦77,000 per month.
State Allowance (State Allawee): Some states offer an additional monthly stipend to corps members posted to their ministries, agencies, or parastatals. This varies significantly by state, ranging from ₦0 to ₦20,000 per month.
In addition, Private Organizations and PPAs (Places of Primary Assignment) can also pay stipends depending on their structure and budget.
Why Does State Allawee Matter?
While the federal allowance is standardized, the state allawee can significantly affect a corps member’s financial well-being.
In some states, the cost of living is high, and without additional income, the federal stipend may not suffice.
However, states that supplement with their own allowance—especially the highest paying NYSC states in Nigeria—can provide corps members with much-needed financial relief.
Highest Paying NYSC States in Nigeria (2025 Update)
🥇 1. Rivers State – ₦20,000 per month (extra)
Rivers State tops the list of highest paying NYSC states in Nigeria. Corps members, especially those serving in ministries or schools under the state payroll, receive an additional ₦20,000 monthly from the government.
Why Rivers?
- Oil-rich economy with a high state budget.
- Some local governments also offer extra bonuses.
- Good infrastructure in Port Harcourt.
- Availability of PPAs that offer additional stipends.
Caveats: Some parts of Rivers State face security concerns. Corps members may want to avoid remote or conflict-prone LGAs unless assured of safety.
🥈 2. Akwa Ibom State – ₦20,000 per month
Akwa Ibom ties with Rivers as one of the best NYSC states in Nigeria for financial incentives.
Known for its clean capital city (Uyo) and hospitality, Akwa Ibom consistently pays ₦20,000/month to corps members.
What makes it great?
- Safe and serene environment.
- Prompt payment history.
- Low cost of living compared to Lagos or Abuja.
Bonus Tip: Akwa Ibom also offers regular transport reimbursement and free accommodation in some LGAs.
🥉 3. Lagos State – ₦15,000 to ₦20,000 (selective)
Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, offers between ₦15,000 to ₦20,000 in extra stipend depending on the PPA. Those posted to ministries and state institutions are more likely to receive the higher amounts.
Why choose Lagos?
Access to high-paying private PPAs that may offer ₦50,000–₦150,000 monthly.
- Better job and networking opportunities post-NYSC.
- Transportation allowance in some zones.
Downside: Lagos has a very high cost of living. Without a supportive PPA or housing arrangement, corps members may spend more than they earn.
Other States That Pay Well
Here’s a look at some other states that provide reasonable NYSC state allowances:
- Oyo ₦15,000
- Benue ₦15,000 Fair cost of living
- Bayelsa ₦6,000–₦10,000
- Anambra ₦8,000–₦8,500 Regular, but slightly delayed payments
- Enugu, Delta, Kano ₦5,000–₦10,000
Usually paid to those in education ministries
- Abuja (FCT) ₦0
High standard of living but no state allowance
States That Do Not Pay Any State Allawee
Despite the federal support, some states in Nigeria do not pay any additional allowance to corps members. These include:
- Abuja (FCT)
- Kogi State
- Cross River
- Ekiti
- Zamfara
- Gombe
- Borno (due to security reasons)
If you’re posted to any of these states, your survival will rely solely on the ₦77,000 federal allowance, or extra income from your PPA.
Cost of Living vs. Allowance: Striking a Balance
When choosing the best state for NYSC, don’t just focus on the amount being paid. Consider the cost of living, security, and job opportunities. For example:
- Lagos. pays well and offers job opportunities, but food, rent, and transportation are expensive.
- Akwa Ibom. may offer a lower cost of living and good pay, making it more financially beneficial in the long run.
- Rivers. is lucrative but has pockets of insecurity to be aware of.
Private PPAs: The Secret to Bigger Earnings
In some states, the PPA you are posted to can make or break your financial life. PPAs in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, especially in industries like:
- Tech
- Finance
- Media
- Oil & Gas
- NGOs
… often pay ₦50,000 to ₦150,000/month, independent of the federal and state allowances.
If you’re not lucky to land such PPAs directly, try redeployment after camp, or negotiate your skills to be reposted.
How to Increase Your Earnings During NYSC
- Freelancing: Use platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or remote job sites to earn online.
- Tutoring: Teach students preparing for WAEC, JAMB, or other exams.
- Start a Side Business: Sell thrift clothes, recharge cards, food, or digital services.
- Content Creation: TikTok, YouTube, and blogging can be profitable during NYSC.
- Networking: Connect with professionals who can help you transition into full-time work after service.
Final Thoughts
If you’re about to serve or are currently serving, knowing the highest paying NYSC states in Nigeria helps you plan better.
Rivers State and Akwa Ibom currently lead the way with ₦20,000 state allowance, making them top choices for financially savvy corps members.
But don’t just chase the money—consider safety, comfort, and your future career goals. With smart planning and extra hustle, your NYSC year can be financially rewarding and personally transformative.