Reflections on My NYSC Journey by Salvador Yusuf

During the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, I was assigned to Delta State but had to attend the orientation camp in Rivers State due to the National Sports Festival. On December 3, 2022, I arrived at Nonwa Gbam Tai camp, full of anticipation. The journey to the camp was long and the road difficult, but the excitement of meeting other prospective corps members made up for it. Upon arrival, our luggage was thoroughly searched, and we went through the registration and COVID testing processes. Contrary to my expectations, the test was painless. Registration was lengthy and exhausting, and I couldn’t complete it on the first day, leaving me without my khaki, crested vest, and jungle boots.

Life at the orientation camp was highly regimented, with a strict schedule for all activities, from waking up to sleeping. Though I didn’t make many friends, I became close with Dammy, Sylvia, Buchim, and Gideon. I joined my platoon’s football team, and we secured third place in the competition. Our platoon excelled overall in various camp activities. With prior experience as a cadet, I joined the parade easily and was appointed sub-guard commandant for my platoon.

Salvador Yusuf

The three weeks passed quickly. Despite the initial eagerness to leave the camp’s rigorous routine, the final day was emotional, making many wish for more time together. I applied for redeployment to Lagos State and returned there after camp, a journey that took about 10-15 hours.

My posting letter appeared on the NYSC portal at the end of 2022, during the festive period. I was assigned to the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Center (NAFRC) in Oshodi. My daily commute from Ogijo required early starts to beat the traffic. My first visit to NAFRC involved a lot of waiting, and after several attempts, I finally received my acceptance letter on January 18, 2023.

Living at NAFRC was a blend of disciplined routines and a vibrant community spirit, fostering growth in various aspects like discipline, dedication, and leadership. Our weekly activities included a muster parade, sports, lectures, Padre hour, and a lively Friday mess. I joined the Center Maintenance Group, engaging in numerous construction and maintenance projects. Working under Lt. Col. A.A. Jaji and Sqdr. Ldr. K.A. Yakubu, and learning from Engineer Friday, was highly rewarding.

NAFRC became a close-knit community where I developed friendships, faced challenges, and grew as a person. The officer in charge of corps members, Lt. Cdr. B.S. Abdu, was a mentor and a father figure, significantly impacting our personal and professional lives.

Post-NYSC, I am exploring job opportunities, hoping to secure a position at NAFRC or join the Nigerian Air Force through the direct short service course. The experiences, mentorship, and friendships from NAFRC have greatly influenced my personal and professional development.

In conclusion, my NYSC experience was transformative, fostering self-discovery, resilience, and lifelong connections. This journey of service has left me more disciplined, patriotic, and responsible. As I move forward, I carry the lessons and relationships from this unique period with gratitude and optimism.

Salvador Yusuf is a Civil Engineer, Humanitarian and Career Development Enthusiast