NYSC

By Mujahid Nasir Hussain

Before I received my call-up letter to serve in Kaduna, I had only visited two states in Nigeria: Bauchi and Katsina. As rooted as I was in Kano, I was confident that one day, a journey would take me on an expansive adventure. On a Monday morning, my letter arrived, and I was assigned to Kaduna. Without hesitation, I accepted the call, feeling both the weight of the commitment and a sense of excitement for the journey ahead.

My arrival at the Government College Temporary Orientation Camp, Kurmin Mashi, was immediately followed by an unexpected nomination. A day after settling in, the NYSC certificate officer responsible for Muslim affairs addressed us after the Fajr prayer. He announced they would select a camp Ameer, Imams, and mosque officials to guide and regulate Muslim activities for the three-week orientation. While the officer invited all interested corps members to a screening at 9:00 a.m., I initially had no interest in volunteering. 

I had been an Imam throughout my four years at Bayero University Kano and knew the demands of such a role well. However, a friend’s persistent encouragement eventually swayed me. He reminded me that contributing in this way could be significant, so I agreed to attend the screening. By the end of the process, I was nominated as the camp Ameer among a large pool of competent Muslim corps members. This role demanded dedication, organisation, and the ability to balance multiple responsibilities, each of which became an invaluable part of my camp experience.

I sought additional ways to engage and support my fellow corps members throughout the orientation. Given my background in a medical-related field, I joined the Red Cross team, a requirement for those in health-related disciplines. This opened up an opportunity to teach cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and choking management, skills I had learned and been certified in through the Basic Life Support training at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital just four weeks before arriving in camp. Sharing this knowledge with my peers was a gratifying experience and reinforced my commitment to the responsibilities I had taken on.

As the orientation phase ended, the NYSC program’s next chapter brought me another unexpected role—the position of Medical & Health Community Development Service (CDS) president. This time, I was both surprised and a little amused at the nomination, especially when someone in the group remarked, “He only studied physiology,” implying that there were candidates with medical and pharmacy degrees who might be more fitting for the role. However, my fellow corps members saw beyond that comment, recognising my active participation and consistent presence in discussions on various health issues. Their confidence in me reaffirmed my belief in engaging fully in every opportunity, regardless of qualifications or prior experience.

One of the most transformative aspects of my NYSC journey was my placement at a diagnostic centre. This placement became a learning ground where I progressed from never handling a sonography probe to becoming a trusted cardiac sonographer. Each day at the centre involved performing different scanning procedures, including cardiac sonography—a skill I never expected to acquire. 

Before long, I began visiting primary healthcare centres to conduct these scans and report results, trusted to work independently by the centre. This experience not only built my technical skills but also gave me confidence and professional growth that went far beyond the confines of my physiology degree.

Reflecting on this journey, I am grateful for the complete immersion I experienced by staying in Kaduna. Many corps members, especially those posted close to their home states, travel back frequently, often missing out on opportunities to develop their skills more deeply. Though I only made two trips back to Kano throughout my service year, the experiences and skills I gained in Kaduna were irreplaceable. 

NYSC offered a space where I could grow beyond the confines of my academic background, gaining hands-on expertise that would ultimately make me more valuable in the job market. The scheme is a golden opportunity to stand out for those wondering about the job prospects after NYSC. If I had only my physiology degree to present to future employers, I’d be no different from countless other graduates with the same qualification. But by stepping out of my comfort zone, learning sonography, and building leadership experience, I now have more to offer.

Prospective corps members should view the NYSC year as more than a routine or obligatory service period. It’s an opportunity to develop skills that add value to your degree and increase your chances in the job market. 

With the right mindset, your NYSC journey can transform and empower you unexpectedly. My time in Kaduna will remain one of the most defining chapters of my life, a journey marked by growth, resilience, and the pursuit of a purpose greater than myself.

Mujahid Nasir Hussain wrote via mujahidhnasir@gmail.com.

By Ibrahim Sulaiman

Let me celebrate a trio of my teachers, Miss Tina, Mr KJ Kabir and Mr Nebo Ekene. They are not only my teachers but have also stood out for making me academically ambitious. 

Graduating from a nearly dying government secondary school system in the North Eastern part of Nigeria in the early 2000s was discouraging for students being churned out from these schools. These National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members were determined to make us think and dream like our counterparts in other schools that were practically better than ours. 

Miss Tina (as she was then), a UniLAG-trained geographer, was very concerned about covering the syllabus. She wanted me to sit for JAMB the following year, as none of us had registered for the matriculation exam that we finished every year at school. She gave me a pass in A&B to read in preparation. She also contacted me after leaving Jama’are when she hadcompleted her one-year mandatory NYSC.

Mr KJ Kabir (from Kwara State) was concerned about my proposed course of study. He was our Press Club patron, and I was one of the club’s newscasters. He would always ask through discussion, ‘Ibrahim, what do you want to study? ‘I would reply, ‘Mass Communication, Sir’ (having been influenced by the press club plus the fact that I was and am still a radio fan). From our discussion, I learned that he wanted me to study political science (he is a university graduate of political science, too). 

Mr Ekene (a Baga-born Igbo from Enugu state with an excellent and near-perfect command of the Hausa Language) was another dedicated teacher and a mentor. This corp-member teacher will always fix classes and/or extend classes beyond the allotted time in his bid to cover the syllabus. 

The lodges of the trio were vestibules for extra lessons for me. I frequent their houses, and they’re always available for me. I remember vividly when Mr Ekene left the school quarters to stay in Cooper’s lodge in Jama’are town. I used to go there for my lessons. These experiences prepared me and, of course, made me conscious about proceeding with my studies immediately. 

This consciousness made me focus more on education than anything else. Some of them were disappointed in me when I told them that I was enrolled in a diploma program. They all wanted me to be in university after secondary school. But I always assured them I would proceed from there, and I did!

To these teachers, the trios, I am ever grateful for the inspiration. The books you gave me while passing out from the NYSC and the Q&As bequeathed to your chosen student were sources of inspiration that keep prodding me up to today. They will keep pushing till I reach the pinnacle, called PhD (soon)! Thank you so much for your selflessness and service to humanity.

Ibrahim Sulaiman writes from Abuja, Nigeria and can be reached via ibrahimsulaiman193@gmail.com

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has yesterday officially bade farewell to the 2023 Batch C National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who completed their one-year national service at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) headquarters in Abuja. 

CGC Adeniyi, in a ceremony marked by a memorable passing-out parade, accompanied by senior officers, inspected the outgoing corps members as they displayed their final drill.

Adeniyi urged the corps members to uphold values like discipline, teamwork, and commitment.  

He said, “These are values you must carry with you into your professional lives.” 

He also praised the dedication and contributions of the corps members during their service year.

By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

The Nation’s clarion call resounds, and the youth—our graduates—respond. The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is central to this national narrative. Some may argue that these graduates bask in the comfort of government stipends for a year, while others counter, “How substantial is this money anyway? It’s merely enough to keep body and soul together.”

For many, this stipend transcends mere sustenance; it symbolises stability. Upon completion of their service year, the promise of a regular income dissipates like a mirage. As I approach the conclusion of my service year, my thoughts drift back to a reflection penned in 1993 by Yushau Shuaib, the esteemed publisher of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential.

His words resonate profoundly: “After the National Youth Service, what next? From here, where next? How long have you fantasised about your next port of call after dedicating your life to academic pursuits? Will you further your studies, seek employment, or perhaps get married?” If marriage is part of your post-service plans, ensure you save for the honeymoon.

As my time in NYSC draws to a close, I can’t help but ponder the uncertain future that awaits me and my fellow corps members. For many, this may mark the last time they receive a government-issued salary. Some leave the country for greener pastures, convinced that this nation offers them no future.

Others, however, have jobs waiting for them, merely contingent on their release from service. Yet, many corps members will never earn as much as they did during their service year; some may find even better opportunities, while others remain lost amidst uncertainty. In today’s society, we question: Are we destined to join the legions of unemployed graduates? Is education no longer the key to societal recognition?

We witness individuals with multiple degrees grappling to find viable employment, seemingly rendering education futile. The rise of the “Yahoo boys,” who embody the new elite without formal education, fosters the narrative that “school is a scam.” Our education system requires rigorous restructuring and oversight, but we also need a comprehensive reorientation of our values and aspirations.

One acquaintance is willing to resort to unethical means to secure a job, even contemplating bribery for a lucrative position, craving societal approval. But what of those lacking the financial means or connections? Who stands by us?

The fear of poverty could well be the beginning of misguided pursuits. Might some be tempted to resort to fraud, political thuggery, or even prostitution—now sanitised as “hookups”? Will others turn to terrorism or kidnapping, driven by necessity, as opportunities evaporate in the job market?

Private organizations face significant hiring constraints stifled by economic instability. In fact, many are laying off staff simply to stay afloat—how, then, can they possibly accommodate fresh graduates? What becomes of those of us unwilling to engage in illicit activities? Are we consigned to a life of struggle?

For some, the service year impedes success; for others, it serves as a crucible for personal growth and dream realisation. Some may even decline job offers, viewing the pay beneath them, while others face a daunting lack of direction.

How can we elevate our nation when out of millions of corps members, only a fraction—perhaps five hundred—find meaningful employment? And of those, many receive insufficient compensation to support a family amidst this unforgiving economy. How can youth deprived of job opportunities or financial means to foster their ventures lift our nation?

Nigeria has devolved into a landscape where viable jobs are an elite commodity. In the 70s and 80s, even an O-level holder could readily secure employment; today, the opposite rings true. Are we not at an impasse? Is my generation not doomed to suffer for the decisions of the past? While I believe in humbly serving my nation, this conviction must be matched with tangible opportunities.

To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: One crucial step toward alleviating terrorism and insecurity is ensuring job security for our youth. An idle mind may indeed become the devil’s workshop. If corps members exit service devoid of decent employment, they may turn to unlawful means for survival, jeopardising our nation’s safety.

In this digital age, AI has transformed many operational processes, executing tasks with unprecedented speed and efficacy. Yet, rather than perceiving AI as a threat to job security for corps members, we should embrace the potential for collaboration, where human creativity meets AI’s efficiency. Mastering this synergy could unlock exceptional possibilities in the workforce.

Mr. President, we recognize the intricacies of governance, but we implore you to prioritise job creation for corps members and youth. We are eager to contribute to national development with commitment and integrity, aspiring to build our nation through unity and loyalty.

To our security agencies: Strengthening your efforts requires greater employment prospects for youth, particularly graduates. Doing so would alleviate the rates of insecurity plaguing our nation. Please take our concerns to the President and collaborate with experts in the field.

We advocate for a specific percentage of corps members to be employed by the government upon the conclusion of each NYSC batch yearly. This initiative would instil hope in the youth, steering them away from crimes and social vices.

We extend our gratitude to the NYSC for the training and life lessons garnered throughout this journey. The NYSC must collaborate with the government to catalyse job creation amid an industrial revolution. Such a partnership would solidify the NYSC’s reputation as a cornerstone for job creation and national growth.

To our legislators, senators, and esteemed members of the National Assembly: We urge you to convene and enact laws that foster job creation through the NYSC scheme, benefitting graduate corps members.

State governments must also step up, providing increased employment opportunities for departing corps members. This collective effort can rekindle hope among the youth and everyday citizens, paving the way for national progress. Nigeria is our home; Nigeria is who we serve.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a candidate for national development and a Mass Communication graduate serving with PRNigeria in Abuja.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Gombe State Government has donated 2 Bulls, thirty (30) Bags of fifty (50) kg of Rice, twenty (20) Jericans of Ground nut oil, and ten (10) Bags of Beans to Corps members of the 2024 Batch B Stream two Orientation Course.

In a message, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya CON, represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development Adamu Inuwa Pantami, said that the donation will augment the feeding of Corps members at the Camp and cushion the effect of the rising cost of food items.

The Governor, who wished the Corp members well, informed them that Gombe is hospitable, noting that the peace-loving people of Gombe state are eagerly waiting to receive them after orientation camp. 

While receiving the items at the National Youth Services Corp (NYSC) Temporary Orientation Camp, Amada, the State Coordinator NYSC Gombe State, Mrs Chinwe Nnenna Nwachuku, expressed gratitude to the Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for the kind gesture. 

She said that she would inform the Director General and top Management of the Scheme of the Governor’s love and untiring support to the NYSC.

The elated State Coordinator also pledged to continue to work hard for the interest of the scheme, Gombe State and the nation at large.

By Haroon Aremu 

In a period marked by ongoing high-profile corruption cases by the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian authorities urgently need to address the potential dangers of protests and the pressing demand for justice. 

Specifically, some high-profile corruption cases under anti-graft agencies warrant thorough examination to understand the depth of the issue and the necessary steps required for resolution and swift justice dispensation.

Bodies like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme preach the promotion of national security, awareness and consciousness; thus, I cannot but wonder how these situations affect Nigeria as a nation and proffer feasible solutions.

Communication and information management delivery is important as we have some high-profile cases in the country, and Nigerians eagerly await their conclusion. The EFCC charged with this responsibility should ensure a quick but thorough investigation to reduce corruption in our society, thereby bridging the gap of mistrust between the agency and the populace.

It can be recalled that the former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has been accused of corruption and money laundering involving billions of dollars. The EFCC has seized properties and assets worth millions linked to her. She is facing charges in Nigeria and is under investigation by the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency.

 Former governor of Ekiti State Ayodele Fayose is charged with receiving N1.3 billion from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) for his election campaign. The EFCC arraigned him, and his trial is ongoing. Also, the former Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) chairman, Babatunde Fowler, is under investigation for alleged financial mismanagement and fraud. 

Similarly, Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State, stands accused of an N80.2 billion fraud. The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has kept the case in Abuja, declining Bello’s request to transfer the trial to Kogi State.

The long list also included former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Godwin Emefiele, who is being charged with financial mismanagement and corruption while leading the apex bank. 

 EFCC’s investigation into Betta Edu, suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, is ongoing, with specific details yet to be fully available. Also, Sadiya Umar Farouq, the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, is accused of embezzling funds meant for social welfare programs. It is gratifying that the court has asked her to account for over N790bn she embezzled while in office.

Amid these significant corruption cases, there are speculations that some individuals facing probes by the EFCC might be sponsors of planned protests against the anti-corruption agency. This has raised concerns about the motivations behind these demonstrations and their potential impact on national stability.

While peaceful protests are a democratic right, they can spiral into violence, property damage, and disruption of public order. The EndSARS protests serve as a stark reminder of where lives were lost, properties destroyed, and chaos ensued. Protests pose risks to participants and bystanders and can escalate into broader conflicts with law enforcement or opposing groups.

As a concerned citizen, I always preach sustainability in national security and justice enforcement, given the complexities surrounding these high-profile cases and the associated risks of protests.

Efforts to address these issues involved community engagement programs to address grievances before they escalate into protests. This fosters trust and opens channels for dialogue. Strengthen intelligence networks to anticipate and prevent potential violence. This involves monitoring social media and other communication channels for signs of unrest.

There is also a need to provide specialised training for law enforcement officers on de-escalation techniques to handle protests more peacefully and effectively while ensuring transparent and accountable governance to build public trust. This includes clear communication about the progress of high-profile cases and actions taken.

Similarly, fostering continuous dialogue between government officials and civil society to find mutually agreeable solutions to contentious issues is another alternative approach. The EFCC should collaborate closely with police and military personnel, especially during arrests, because the police have higher immunity for legal arrests of public figures, which can help manage high-tension situations more effectively. 

Finally, Navigating the dual challenges of addressing high-profile corruption cases and managing potential protests requires a multi-faceted approach. Swift and fair dispensation of justice, combined with proactive and strategic security measures, will strengthen national security and uphold the rule of law in Nigeria. 

The ongoing cases involving figures like Diezani Alison-Madueke, Ayodele Fayose, Babatunde Fowler, Yahaya Bello, Godwin Emefiele, Betta Edu, and Sadiya Umar Faruq, among others, must be handled with care. Nigerians expect a swift investigation and dispensation of fair judgment to restore faith in our anti-graft agencies and judicial system, which will ultimately deter future corruption.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a corp member with PRNigeria Center Abuja and wrote in via exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Muhammad Amir

Weeks ago, the media aides of the Niger state Governor, Umaru Mohammed Bago, were all over social media sharing stories and clips of the Governor’s promise of the sum of N200,000 to each corps member posted to the state under the Batch B stream one. 

It is commendable that the Governor allocated N5 billion to construct the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) State Permanent Orientation Camp located at Paiko. The camp has been in a decrepit state for quite some time. 

According to the story, the Governor also gave the over one thousand corps members in batch B stream one a trailer of rice and 20 cattle as a state bonus. These are all good gestures.

However, I feel there are more important things to do than promise such a large amount of money to Corp members when the rate at which hunger escalates is beyond our imaginations, coupled with the insecurity that has bedevilled and still bedevils the state. 

We now live in a society with no other level than the grassroots. The government has failed to see or is negligent about people in need; they are the unseen hands in society, yet they are there and deserve to be seen.

I am not against what the governor did, but instead of nurturing a mature tree, it is better to turn a seed into a tree.  The government can create more opportunities for people in need to acquire skills that will make them productive and improve their living standards.

The government can increase facilities in hospitals and even set up business ventures for the indigenous youths who are wallowing in the street and unemployed. One can go on and on; there’s no shortage of what to do, and that is better than giving out cash tokens to youths, for which the federal government has already taken care of their feeding, welfare, and accommodation for this period. 

I rest my opinion on the point that Governor Bago is one of the best-performing governors so far, but I still feel they are not reaching people in need, and there are more ways to use revenue than giving it as a token.

Abdullahi Muhammad Amir wrote this article from Newgate University Minna, Niger State.

By Haroon Aremu

Fostering national unity and cohesion is one of the core objectives of establishing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Scheme. Grouping with other prospective corps members en route to the camp is a simple act that highlights the spirit of togetherness and brotherhood that the NYSC scheme promotes.

During the Man O’ War drills, we delved into the essence of leadership. Practical lessons taught us that as leaders, we must make wise decisions, stay steadfast, dedicated, and remain disciplined. Initially, people may rally around you, but when challenges arise, you might find yourself alone, tasked with solving problems independently. Good leaders are always alert, willing to learn and unlearn, and possess strong listening skills. They understand the importance of carrying people along when necessary. These are invaluable lessons that stay with you, and for those who have gone through this, the memories and practical examples serve as lifelong guides.

Another enriching aspect of NYSC is the opportunity to make friends from various tribes and states, including those who studied abroad. The camp environment is a melting pot of cultures and ideas, providing ample networking opportunities. Whether you seek fruitful relationships, financial growth, or career advancement, the connections you make at camp can be pivotal in your next life phase.

While camp life can sometimes be stressful, it is equally interesting and filled with numerous advantages crucial for our future. The experience fosters personal development and resilience, equipping you with skills and insights invaluable in your professional and personal life.

Participation in the NYSC is mandatory for all Nigerian graduates, whether you studied within or outside Nigeria,provided a person does not reach 30 years of age at graduation. The implications of not serving your nation may have ripple effects on any chosen career development. Without completing the NYSC, one cannot contest for any political office or receive political appointments. 

This rule was underscored by recent events involving prominent figures such as the Minister for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, who had to complete her youth service quickly to retain her ministerial position. Similarly, former Minister of Finance Kemi Adeosun faced a significant scandal for not participating in the NYSC, which ultimately led to her resignation.

The NYSC scheme allows graduates to contribute to reducing the flames of tribalism and nepotism, fostering peaceful coexistence and good neighbourliness. The program cultivates a sense of love and unity, reinforcing that we are all one Nigeria.

The NYSC experience is a transformative journey that every Nigerian graduate should embark on. It prepares you for the future by instilling leadership skills and fostering valuable connections, but it also plays a crucial role in national unity and development. Embrace the NYSC scheme and join the movement that builds a stronger, more united Nigeria.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a corp member with PRNigeria centre, Abuja and wrote in via exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, has announced that the Federal Government will increase the monthly allowance of corps members once the ongoing negotiations on the new minimum wage are completed.

Ahmed made this known during a visit to the Ogun State NYSC Orientation Camp in Sagamu, where he addressed 2,762 corps members of Batch B, Stream One.

He congratulated the corps members for making it to the orientation camp, noting that many of their colleagues had not been so lucky academically to have the privilege of being called corps members.

The DG urged the corps members to take their training seriously, as it is designed to sharpen their leadership skills and make them better Nigerians and more useful to society.

He also warned them against posting camp activities on social media, stating that three corps members had been expelled from the camp for flouting this rule.

Ahmed advised the corps members to prioritize their security and avoid unnecessary journeys, especially at night.

He also encouraged them to consider a career in the military, impressed by the military skills displayed by the parade guard.

The DG donated four cows to the corps members for their feeding and commended the military skills displayed by the parade guard.

He also urged the corps members to respect the culture of the communities they will be posted to for their primary assignment and discharge their duties responsibly as worthy ambassadors of the 51-year-old scheme.

The Ogun State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs. Olayinka Nasamu, appreciated the DG’s visit and highlighted the camp’s needs, including additional boreholes, water reservoirs, inadequate bunks and mattresses, a functional ambulance, and a proper food store.

She also noted that the camp has provided handwashing stations and sanitizers to prevent the outbreak of cholera.

By Haroon Aremu 

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 were keen to join immediately. One friend said he needed to hustle and build his career first. However, I wanted to finish it quickly and move on to my next life phase. 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, and it stated that  I was to camp at Niger State, Paikoro local government, Paiko camp, 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 states 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 to develop their futures. 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 thirty, who are usually issued 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 applies beyond NYSC, reminding us that vigilance is key even in seemingly safe spaces.

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

Yet, amidst the laughter and anticipation, a stark reality halted us. Amid 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 corps member. Continuing our journey, we enjoyed the natural beauty of Nigeria’s landscapes.

However, amidst the tension, there were glimmers of hope. Security checkpoints operated 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.

The journey left an indelible mark as we finally arrived at our destination. From cautionary tales to unexpected camaraderie, each moment was a testament to the importance of preparation and vigilance. As I shared my story 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, I believe numerous advantages 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 to your NYSC to 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 centre, Abuja and wrote in via exponentumera@gmail.com.