Top 10 Best And Worst States For Your Service Year: Nysc State Guide For 2025

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is a rite of passage for Nigerian graduates. One of the most important aspects of the NYSC program is the state of deployment. Where you serve can significantly affect your safety, financial well-being, job prospects, and overall service year experience.

In this NYSC state guide for 2025, we break down the top 10 best states to serve, and the 10 states you might want to avoid, based on criteria such as:

• State allowance (allawee)

• Security

• Job and business opportunities

• Cost of living

• Basic amenities

• Quality of orientation camps

Top 10 Best States for NYSC in 2025

1. Lagos State

• State Allowance: ₦15,000–₦20,000

• Perks: Economic capital of Nigeria, with vast job opportunities in tech, media, finance, and NGOs.

• Orientation Camp: Well-equipped, located in Iyana Ipaja.

• Why it's top-rated: Best for networking and post-NYSC employment.

2. Abuja (FCT)

• State Allowance: ₦10,000–₦15,000

• Perks: Political capital, many government and NGO opportunities.

• Orientation Camp: Located in Kubwa, decent facilities.

• Why it's great: Classy lifestyle and strong job market.

3. Akwa Ibom State

• State Allowance: ₦10,000

• Perks: Safe environment, good food, and supportive government.

• Orientation Camp: Nsit Atai, very clean and modern.

• Why it's great: Friendly locals and a pleasant lifestyle.

4. Enugu State

• State Allowance: ₦3,800–₦5,000

• Perks: Good cost of living, peaceful atmosphere.

• Orientation Camp: Located in Awgu LGA.

• Why it's great: Great for those who enjoy calm and culture.

5. Cross River State

• State Allowance: ₦5,000

• Perks: Beautiful scenery, tourism potential.

• Orientation Camp: Obubra camp, decent facilities.

• Why it's great: Perfect for a relaxed and adventurous year.

6. Ogun State

• State Allowance: ₦5,000

• Perks: Proximity to Lagos, good infrastructure.

• Orientation Camp: Sagamu camp is one of the best in Nigeria.

• Why it's great: Enjoy Lagos benefits without the stress.

7. Osun State

• State Allowance: ₦5,000

• Perks: Low cost of living, peaceful communities.

• Orientation Camp: Ede camp is well-maintained.

• Why it's great: Ideal for saving money.

8. Kano State

• State Allowance: ₦10,000 (subject to change)

• Perks: Large commercial hub in the North.

• Orientation Camp: Karaye camp is well-structured.

• Why it's great: Good business opportunities.

9. Anambra State

• State Allowance: ₦8,000–₦9,000

• Perks: Strong commercial base and entrepreneurship support.

• Orientation Camp: Umuawulu/Mbaukwu camp is well equipped.

• Why it's great: A good place to start a business after NYSC.

10. Oyo State

• State Allowance: ₦4,000–₦5,000

• Perks: Lively culture and thriving small business scene.

• Orientation Camp: Iseyin camp with good amenities.

• Why it's great: Urban and semi-urban blend.

10 Worst States for NYSC in 2025

1. Borno State

• Issues: Insecurity due to insurgency.

• State Allowance: Up to ₦10,000 as hazard incentive.

• Risk Level: High

• Verdict: Avoid if possible, despite high allowances.

2. Yobe State

• Issues: Boko Haram presence and poor amenities.

• State Allowance: ₦5,000

• Risk Level: High

• Verdict: Not ideal for safety-conscious corps members.

3. Zamfara State

• Issues: Banditry, kidnapping, low security.

• State Allowance: None confirmed.

• Risk Level: High

• Verdict: Avoid for safety reasons.

4. Katsina State

• Issues: Insecurity in rural areas.

• State Allowance: ₦4,000–₦5,000

• Risk Level: Medium-High

• Verdict: Not ideal unless posted to city centers.

5. Benue State

• Issues: Farmer-herder conflict in some areas.

• State Allowance: Not consistent.

• Risk Level: Medium

• Verdict: Caution advised depending on LGA.

6. Taraba State

• Issues: Tribal and communal clashes.

• State Allowance: None reported.

• Risk Level: Medium

• Verdict: Avoid rural postings.

7. Ebonyi State

• Issues: Poor road infrastructure and isolated camps.

• State Allowance: ₦5,000

• Risk Level: Low-medium

• Verdict: Manageable but not ideal for all.

8. Kebbi State

• Issues: High temperatures, limited opportunities.

• State Allowance: Not confirmed.

• Risk Level: Medium

• Verdict: Hard to adapt for non-northern corps members.

9. Sokoto State

• Issues: Harsh climate, fewer jobs.

• State Allowance: ₦3,000

• Risk Level: Medium

• Verdict: Not favorable for southern corps members.

10. Nasarawa State

• Issues: Limited state allowance and job opportunities.

• State Allowance: ₦3,000–₦4,000

• Risk Level: Low-medium

• Verdict: Average for service but not very rewarding.

Pro Tips for Choosing the Best NYSC State

• Consider safety first – no allowance is worth risking your life.

• Research state allowances to supplement your federal ₦77,000 monthly payment.

• Look out for job markets – states like Lagos and Abuja can help you start a career early.

• Check cost of living – some states may pay less but are cheaper to live in.

• Join online forums and WhatsApp groups to get real-time corps members’ feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the best-paying state for NYSC in 2025?

A: Lagos, Borno (hazard pay), and Akwa Ibom are among the top-paying states.

Q2: Can I redeploy from a dangerous state?

A: Yes, NYSC allows relocation on medical, marital, or security grounds.

Q3: Is it better to serve in a rural or urban area?

A: Urban areas offer better amenities and job prospects, while rural postings may be more peaceful but isolated.

Q4: Can I influence my posting?

A: Directly, no. But knowing someone in the system or applying through certain channels (like medical redeployment) can influence it.

Q5: Do all states pay corps members?

A: No. Not all states provide additional stipends beyond the federal allowance.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best NYSC state for your service year is a game-changer. Whether you’re seeking financial advantage, career opportunities, or peace of mind, let this guide help you make an informed decision in 2025. Remember, your NYSC year is what you make of it—plan wisely and stay safe!