After NYSC in Jigawa Camp... Was it worth it?

One sure way to perfect your cooking is during the Nigerian National Youth Service program.

But seriously though, was National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) worth it?

I mean, I love the idea of having a 1 month para-military training after my University education. Camp was da bomb, sleeping on bunk beds again (after boarding house) with the B16 boys, 

The military parades, joining the military band (Boy's Brigade snare drum experience never leaves you), 

the "Miss Camp" fashion parade and "Miss Orobo" competition. I think my platoon 3 was represented by Anu and Precious...

 

and the Mr Macho competition (shout out to MTN Nigeria for showing up). We ran out of Vaseline that night...

Xto-P dropping a "Live 4 Love" and "Ka-anyi jebe" special for platoon 3...

Being part of the OBS (Orientation Broadcasting Service), the camp radio station with Gbenga, DJ Gaps, Beatrice, Baba Blue, DJ Raph...

as well as the Camp Clinic, with Gaby the Great (RIP), Eniola, Damola, Iphie (Gelphie), Joey, Agatha, Keke, Tobi, Joke, Obinna, Lota, Pam Pam, Abdulwalid, Deborah...

Coaching the female volley ball team of my platoon...

Including an impromptu proposal, using a zobo leaf. I cannot lie, it was really fun...

It's a time when you "give back to your beloved Nigeria"  by committing to 11 months of service "with low pay", mostly as a teacher in a primary or secondary school or as a staff in the local government. And if you're lucky, get a job in a bank or other financial institution which can lead to better prospects after 1 year.

For many young Nigerians, this is their first "paid job" so it might be an new experience of being your own man/woman.

NYSC Camp Fellowship was the best with the Aris, Apostle, Pastor Seun, Mr Alabi (Camp Director), ...

The friends you make, the new "connect" whose impact you'd never forget...

Meeting people from all over the country. For Northerners, who may have never been to the East, get to mingle with Igbos. For Yorubas who may have never left the West, get to mingle with the Kanuris. 

I had fun learning Hausa and by the end of the year, I could take a clinical history, as well as complete my shopping in the local market (including bargaining prices) in the language. Lest I forget, food was incredibly fresh and cheap in Ringim...

But the travel through unsafe roads? My first experience of entering "Night Bus" was a trip from Onitsha to Kaduna, the night before Orientation Camp. That was the first of many night trips.

But the occasional unrest every now and then in the North? During my time, a place of worship in the next village was burnt down. I remember one day I went to Kano market and was warned specifically to not go to certain areas of the market which was dominated by a different tribe. The constant reminder to wear my NYSC uniform everywhere I went, as it may offer some "protection". I can see why many mothers would rather have their children not serve at all, or better still, serve in their bedroom.

At the end, the idea behind NYSC is great and clearly has the best intentions. This doesn't have to come with a cost to safety.

Reporting live from Jigawa, your brother, from another mother, like no other. Over and out!