My NYSC Story: Falling for a Soldier

During the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, Ayomide found himself in Enugu, where an unexpected romance with a soldier blossomed. Despite this connection, he eventually redeployed to Lagos State in 2022, gaining invaluable life lessons along the way.

When asked about his initial perception of NYSC, Ayomide saw it as a transformative experience and was eager for the journey ahead. His three weeks in camp were filled with excitement, enjoying diverse foods and the immersive camp culture. The highlight of his camp experience was meeting Sergeant Senikat, a soldier whose ruggedness captivated him, though he never voiced his feelings.

Despite this memorable encounter, the camp had its challenges, such as poor water quality and inadequate toilet facilities.

For the remainder of his service year, Ayomide worked as an office assistant, finding the experience fulfilling and skill-enhancing. He learned significant lessons in humility and respect, forming genuine friendships along the way.

Reflecting on his NYSC journey, Ayomide expressed a willingness to relive the experience, emphasizing the exposure to new places and meaningful connections. He firmly believes that NYSC should continue, as it offers young Nigerians valuable opportunities to explore and grow.