The Power of Audacity: My NYSC Friend’s Bold Journey

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