The House of Representatives had stepped down debate on the bill for an Act to amend the National Youth Service Corps Act, Cap. Number 84 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to review upward the accommodation and transport allowances of Corps Members in line with current realities.
The bill which was sponsored by Hon Ben Ibakpa and five other Members was slated for second reading on the floor of the House during plenary on Tuesday.
Leading the debate on the bill, Hon Ben Ibakpa representing Ethiope Federal Constituency, stated that the amendment bill seeks to among other things provide a cure for the unrealistic allowances given to Youth Corp members as remuneration ,calling for upwards review to reflect the prevailing economic realities.
Igbakpa explained that the amendment intend to accommodate Nigerians who schooled abroad and exceeded the age of service.
He said that bill also proposes that the process of acquiring exemption certificates should be optional and less cumbersome for people who are above the age to serve under the scheme.
Some members,including,the Deputy Speaker of the House,Hon Idris Ahmed Wase, Hons Ahmed Jaha, Chinyere Igwe , Leke Abejide amongst others in their contributions, agreed to the upward review of remuneration for Corp members but however disagreed with the amendment to make the exemption certificate optional.
According to the Members,making the Service compulsory will help youths to reintegrate with other regions of the country and promote unity.
The Speaker,Hon Femi Gbajabiamila however called for caution in the amendment,admitting that the existing act need to but review but should be in done in a manner that will not defeat the aim of the NYSC scheme.
The Bill was then stepped down by leave of the House to allow more consultation.
