Many Nigerian graduates eagerly anticipate their time with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). For most, completing their university education is closely followed by the excitement of NYSC, with many feeling a sense of incompleteness without it.

It’s no surprise that once they finish their NYSC, they proudly share their experiences on social media. Here are three heartwarming NYSC testimonies that recently went viral, highlighted by Legit.ng.

Nigerian youths often feel a deep sense of pride in serving their country after graduating from university or polytechnic. They eagerly await their call-up letters and quickly proceed to their assigned postings.

Many of these graduates have moving stories about their journey through school and NYSC, and they often share these stories online. Legit.ng has highlighted three particularly touching stories.

Joseph Udoh Ezekiel: From Laundry Boy to Graduate
One of the most moving stories is that of Joseph Udoh Ezekiel, who worked as a laundry boy at the NYSC camp in Lagos. Encouraged by NYSC members who used his laundry services at the Ipaja camp, Joseph decided to pursue higher education. He saved his earnings to buy a JAMB-UTME form and successfully completed his service in April.

Ebuka Peter Agbo: Overcoming Hardships
Ebuka Peter Agbo shared his challenging journey, which included the loss of his mother while he was still in school. Despite the difficulties, including surviving on biscuits and water for 14 days, Ebuka persevered and completed his NYSC in July 2022, inspiring many with his resilience.

Love Badooni: Small Stature, Big Ambitions
Love Badooni’s story resonated deeply on social media. Despite her small stature, she pursued her ambitions with determination, proudly wearing her NYSC uniform and sharing numerous photos online. Currently serving in Rivers State, Love has a bright future ahead of her.

NYSC remains a significant milestone for Nigerian graduates, who take great pride in their service and often have compelling stories to share once they complete the program.

Viral Success Stories
In a related story, Legit.ng reported about a Nigerian lady who previously worked as a tea girl in a bank. She left her job to return to school and eventually graduated. She later returned to the same bank as a staff member, no longer in her previous role. Her inspiring story of perseverance and courage went viral, earning her widespread praise.

Source: Legit.ng

During my NYSC days in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, I met a remarkable young man named Christopher. Both of us were in the Medical and Health Community Development Service (CDS); he was a pharmacist, and I was an anatomist. The CDS setup had us, medical and paramedical professionals, managing the NYSC Clinic at the Federal Secretariat on rotating shifts, but we often had few patients. We spent our time playing games like Ludo, chess, and even Monopoly, which I learned there due to a bored colleague’s insistence.

In this setting, Christopher and I became friends during our afternoon shifts. One day, he shared an inspiring story that I now pass on to you—a story of boldness and determination.

Christopher had graduated from a university in Cross River State and was uncertain about his next steps before being called to serve. During one of his reflective moments, he conceived a daring idea: to travel from Calabar to Abuja to meet the Minister of Health, who happened to be from his village. Despite never having been to Abuja and the unlikelihood of securing an appointment with a busy federal minister, Christopher’s resolve was unshaken. He decided to take the risk.

He embarked on a midnight bus to Abuja, arriving determined to see the minister. At the Federal Ministry of Health, he confidently approached the secretary, claiming to be a close relative of the minister. This bold lie secured him a seat in the waiting room. The minister, who could see visitors via CCTV, often chose who to meet. Despite a long day and many visitors, the minister asked if anyone else was waiting. The secretary mentioned Christopher, and the minister agreed to see him.

Christopher, initially bold in the waiting room, started to feel the weight of his audacity as he approached the minister’s office. Overwhelmed by nervousness, he smiled awkwardly, which led to both men laughing. The minister, intrigued, asked what he wanted. Christopher simply said, “Sir, your boy just graduated as a pharmacist. Please, get me busy.” The minister, impressed by his courage, gave him a note to show the secretary.

This brief encounter landed Christopher a role as an extension worker distributing mosquito nets across Nigeria, funded by the federal government. This opportunity provided him with travel, accommodation, and significant earnings. He was so engaged that he deferred his NYSC service for a year, undoubtedly making valuable connections along the way.

While Christopher’s story might seem too extraordinary to be true or may have untold details, it remains a testament to the power of courage and audacity. While I don’t recommend everyone try such a bold approach, it underscores the importance of seizing opportunities with confidence. In life, it often takes extraordinary courage to achieve something remarkable.

Written by Ifedayo Oyewumi, a 7x Meta Blueprint Certified || Ex-𝗠𝗘𝗧𝗔 || Performance & Growth Marketing Specialist || Certified Music Business Executive

There are two kinds of frustrating people: those who hear but never heed advice, and those who simply don’t understand. My mother, for the hundredth time, shouted from the kitchen, asking if I had packed everything I needed. I replied affirmatively, though she insisted I should put my stationery in my handbag, despite my plans to fill it with makeup. After all, I aimed to slay at the camp—who knew if my future billionaire husband would be there? I pretended to listen to avoid her nagging.

The long-awaited day arrived after many months. It was unexpected, as my friends and foes had gone to the NYSC orientation camp in April, leaving me feeling betrayed. I had almost given up on Batch A Stream Two until that Saturday. It thrilled me to learn that I was posted to the famous ‘Iṣe Yaa’ state, contiguous with Lagos where I lived. The absence of a language barrier was a relief; I just wanted NYSC to come and go. I detest adjusting to new places, a core component of NYSC.

Finally, the dreaded Thursday came. I packed my box and headed for Sagamu, where the state camp was located. As I approached the gate, fear gripped me, but I had no choice. A civil defence officer searched my box and commented on how parents shower their last-borns with love upon seeing my box full of junk food. Speaking entirely in Yoruba, she asked if I was Yoruba. I said no. She looked satisfied, perhaps thinking I was some Amaka from Imo State.

Immediately after, about five girls rushed to help with my box. The most aggressive one won, smiling and saying, “Aunty, make we go.” She muttered in Yoruba about how much to charge me. I stifled my laughter; if only she knew. After she dropped my bag at the girls’ hostel, she asked for ₦200. I gave it to her without bargaining. For making my first five minutes in camp enjoyable, she deserved it.

Drama began when the hostel mistress asked my age. This was not surprising; who wouldn’t be shocked to see a petite, 4’9” baby-faced girl ready to serve her fatherland? She also commented on my ample bosom. I was bored with the jokes; all I wanted were a shower and sleep. I was pleased to get a lower bunk, avoiding the trouble of climbing due to my height.

I belong to the disobedient group—those who hear but never heed. When I reached registration, I realized I had left my stationery in my box. My mom’s favorite adage flashed through my mind: “Ẹni ti a wí fún, Ọba jé ó gbọ́” (She who is advised, may God help her to listen). All I had in my handbag was my makeup kit. Amid regret, I heard some ladies mocking a girl who had forgotten all her documents at home in Enugu State. I thanked God for my nagging mother.

Camp began, and I ensured to do my makeup daily, even if it meant waking up early or skipping breakfast. My embarrassing moment came sooner than expected. One rainy afternoon, some of us stayed in the hostel instead of going to the auditorium. The soldiers chased us into the rain. I was soaked, and as I arrived late at the auditorium, several male corps members offered me seats. I thought my makeup had an effect, but it was because my thin white top, soaked, revealed my pink-flowered bra. I borrowed a jacket to cover myself and left in shame.

I made a few friends, and Mammy market became our hangout spot. I met a friend during a social night hosted by Platoon 3. One afternoon, he invited me to lunch. Eagerly, I joined him, but he paid only for his meal and left. Shocked, I had no money or pouch. I called my new best friend in camp, who came quickly with my pouch. It was a lesson learned; I was nearly disgraced in the only NYSC camp I would ever attend.

A fortunate part of my camp experience was having an aunt nearby who brought homemade amala every Sunday. It felt like secondary school visiting days again.

The final day in camp brought anxiety, with posting letters determining our fates. I had mixed feelings upon seeing Ewekoro Local Government in my letter. While my friends got Abeokuta, I got a place that sounded uninviting. However, I accepted my fate.

My aunt arranged transportation to my primary place of assignment, but I was told to return the next day. With no one else to rely on, I lodged in a hotel. The following day, after a long wait, the officer in charge smiled while signing my papers. I thought I was hired, but I was rejected. My dreams were crushed, and I was heartbroken.

I settled for a private school offering ₦7,000 monthly. My first day was unsettling due to the poor hygiene of the kids. Over time, I addressed them on personal hygiene. Thursdays, our outreach day, were highlights as we sensitized the host community on various issues. I enjoyed engaging in discussions about female education, domestic violence, and women’s rights.

Despite language barriers, I connected with the community. Their marital stories and advice helped me identify with their pain and happiness. NYSC helped me develop patience, a virtue I had lacked.

NYSC ended when the fun was at its peak, bonding us and creating lifelong friendships. The passing-out parade brought mixed feelings: sadness at leaving new friends, the end of the monthly allowance, and excitement about future opportunities.

Original Story by Adeoye Deborah Adenike is a graduate of the Department of English, University of Lagos. She loves colors, Yoruba traditions, and enjoys sleeping and reading stories. She also writes short stories.

CREDIT: This is an extract from Fortunate Traveller publication, Government Pikin: An Anthology of NYSC Travels Vol I edited by SA Sanusi and Sami Tunji. 

By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

Upon graduating from university, I eagerly anticipated joining the mandatory one year national service with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). I shared my excitement with friends, but not all of them were keen to join immediately. One friend said he needed to hustle and build his career first. However, I wanted to get it done quickly and move on to the next phase of my life. So, I registered and subsequently got mobilised for a three-week-long camping/orientation.

Embarking on the journey to join the NYSC is more than just a transition to adulthood; it is a rollercoaster ride filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Call up letter came stating that I am to camp at Paikoro local government area camp in Niger state but after that three weeks, I am to complete my service in Abuja. I was happy and prepared to travel, as I had never been to Niger state before. I learned that Niger state is one of the largest in terms of landmass. I thought about how beneficial it would be for the federal government, to collaborate with NYSC, and invest in agriculture to empower graduates so as to develop their future. This would surely boost the economy at both the federal and state levels.

Before setting off, a friend’s cautionary words lingered in my mind. He chose to prioritise his career over immediate service, urging me to hustle first. However, my eagerness to dive into the experience outweighed any apprehensions. NYSC is a mandatory scheme for all graduates except those over 30 years old, who are usually issued with an exemption letter.

The night before departure, a subtle warning on the NYSC documentation reminded us not to travel at night—a precaution that resonated deeply. Despite the allure of reaching our destination quickly, we chose safety over haste, breaking our journey when dusk fell. This lesson is applicable beyond NYSC, reminding us that even in seemingly safe spaces, vigilance is key.

As we embarked on our journey, camaraderie filled the air. While travelling alongside fellow prospective corps members, the sense of unity was palpable. From shared laughter to prayers for safe travels, each moment cemented the bonds of camaraderie that NYSC fosters. My journey was interesting, especially travelling with a friend also assigned to the same state. “Corpers on board” was boldly written on our vehicle, and people we passed hailed and prayed for our safe journey. We chatted and played music, making the journey memorable.

Yet, amidst the laughter and anticipation, a moment of stark reality halted us in our tracks. In the midst of lush landscapes, armed men appeared—a stark reminder of the world’s unpredictability. It was a wake-up call, underscoring the importance of vigilance even in seemingly serene surroundings. We stopped at a canteen to eat a sumptuous meal, enjoying the privileges of being a corper. Continuing our journey, we enjoyed the natural beauty of Nigeria’s landscapes.

However, amidst the tension, there were glimmers of hope. Security checkpoints manned by dedicated officers reassured us of their commitment to our safety. Their professionalism and integrity stood as beacons of hope on an otherwise uncertain journey.

The most unexpected twist came when a seemingly menacing encounter turned into a moment of levity. Startled awake by a tap on the shoulder, I found myself face-to-face with an armed security officer, his stern demeanour giving way to a shared joke. In that moment, fear melted into laughter, reminding me that amidst life’s uncertainties, moments of joy abound.

As we finally arrived at our destination, the journey left an indelible mark. From cautionary tales to unexpected camaraderie, each moment was a testament to the importance of preparation and vigilance. As I shared my tale with my hustling friend, who had chosen a different path, I couldn’t help but wonder what adventures awaited him. For in the journey of NYSC, every twist and turn is a chapter waiting to be written, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the bonds that unite us all. This is the essence of NYSC, preaching national unity and peace.

Apart from the interesting aspects of NYSC, there are numerous advantages that I believe will convince you to join the program. If you want to know the funny joke the officer cracked with me, I guess you should also prepare to go for your NYSC, so you can experience how interesting and memorable the journey was. As long as we take the necessary security precautions and avoid rough driving, NYSC ensures our safety because we are all dear to the government.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a youth corp member with PRNigeria center, Abuja, exponentumera@gmail.com

SOURCE: BLUEPRINT