Grace Benjamin

A CAMP DIARY

21 Days NYSC Camp Experience

BY

GRACE BENJAMIN

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All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,

distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including

photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods,

without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the

case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain

other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Copyright © (Benjamin Grace), (2024).

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Dedication

For Mom and Dad my first teachers.

For Timothy, Joseph, Benedicta and Helen my blood.

For Odinaka, Emmanuel Ordi, Benjamin and Emeka. My second

family on earth

For Bola, Quan, Seun, Ugo, Issac, Mike, Wale, Prince, Vincent,

Christine, Prosper, Opeyemi, Kenneth, Daniel, Gbemi and Ade.

Thank you for making the 21 days in camp a memorable one.

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In Memory of Faith

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Table of contents

DEPATURE 6
REGISTRATION 18
WORSHIP 24
UP S.A.E.D 31
SWEARING IN CEREMONY 39
MAN O’ WAR 45
SOCIAL ACTIVITES 54
SECURITY 59
FREE DAY 63
CULTURAL CARNIVAL 66
LAST WORSHIP 72
PARADE 75
ONE MORE DAY TO GO 78
IT’S A WRAP 82
HOME 85

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DEPARTURE

Dragging my box across the seating room towards the door dressed

in my ripped blue jean, white cardigan with a white t-shirt underneath.

Topping up the outfit with a red headband and my dreads left loose to

fall over my shoulders. Not forgetting my white crocs, I was like the

lady in white and blue, my mum following suite with my school bag. My

younger sister lying on the couch, her eyes bloodshot from crying. “kaka

must you go?” “I have to baby, but don’t worry I will be back within

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three weeks. What do you want me to buy for you when I’m coming

back?” “since you are going to Cross river please bring for me water

from the river.” Both my mum and I laughed. “don’t worry baby, I will

bring it for you.” She nodded her head and hopped towards the

bathroom to freshen up and get ready for school.

On Friday the 17th of March 2024 I boarded a tricycle to Cross line

company where I had booked. I could see the longing in my mum’s face.

Deep down I knew she didn’t want me to go but she had no choice. I

reached the park at about 6:02am. The park was filled with luggage and

goods for waybill with few passengers. By looking at some I could guess

they are also going for the orientation camp exercise. To be honest I was

scared like hell. This would be the first time I would be traveling to a far

state alone. Most at times I travel with my parents and siblings in our

private car but this would be the first.

My hands were cold and I was shivering despite wearing a

cardigan. By 8am my tummy was sending a distress signal of hunger. I

went to the nearest shop to get a snack for me and my mum. Loading of

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the goods and luggage continued with dragging of prices and how the

goods would be arranged in the bus. Only looking at the bus, you could

imagine how the passengers would feel tight inside the bus, I was

already looking for another car to board. And thankfully the bus got

filled and was moved to the next Sienna car. Damn I was very happy.

But before loading my stuff, I met one of the passengers and asked if he

was a corper going for the orientation exercise. He said yes and we

exchanged numbers and that was how I met Isaac.

After exchanging contacts, it was time for the bus to take off. The

first bus moved at about 8:46am while ours was still undergoing the

loading process of the way billed goods. I ran to put my bag close to the

window because that’s where I wanted to stay but someone beat me to it.

I was a bit pissed and lamenting not knowing he was directly behind me

smiling at me. I turned and asked “is this bag yours?” he nodded his

head. “Are you a corper?” he nodded his head. Eyeing him I said to

myself “but he doesn’t look like a corper although it’s not written on the

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face but at least there is a vibe it gives. Smiling at me he said “I don’t

look like a corper right?” and that was how I met Prince.

I hugged my mum before climbing my VIP seat. Don’t be too fast,

I was not in the front seat with the driver. No, no, no I will infect the

driver with sleep as I love sleeping during road trips. I was at the back

seat with the luggage but it was damn comfortable. We were nine

passengers with the driver included and Prince of course. Finally, the car

took off at about 9:39am. Waving my mum goodbye was the worst

feeling I felt at that moment. I was excited and scared at the same time.

It was at this point I knew I loved my mum so much more than I thought

I did.

Scrolling through my phone I heard a funny sound and the car

came to a stop. The two front tires came out. We had not left the four

corners of Jos and the car tyre is already out? That was the beginning of

our misery.

Trying to save my battery I took note of my surroundings moving

towards the outskirt of Jos, toward forest. Taking note of the vegetations,

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I remembered my final year exam question in the University of Jos

under PSB (Plant Science and Biotechnology). We were asked to discuss

the vegetations observed when traveling from Jos to Lagos. The moment

I cited the question, I skipped it because the last time I traveled was in

2016 and it was towards my home town in Anambra, so discussing the

vegetation observed from Jos to Lagos would be impossible. I smiled to

myself in the car and noticed the shrubs, dry grasses and partly

distributed trees. Moving towards the forest, the vegetation was a

combination of both highlands and lowlands with grasses and the trees

looked like they were planted intentionally on a straight line.

“God, its 12:39 pm and we are just entering Nasarawa state, this

is going to be a long journey” I said to myself. Approaching Nasarawa,

you can tell by the change in humidity, change in clothing of pedestrians

and change in temperature. You can feel it even with the AC on.

Nasarawa is a hot and sunny state. Unlike Jos, it is cold and cloudy at

times.

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The men in my car were very annoying with the driver included.

Anywhere hawkers gathered he would stop and they would buy

varieties. That was how we kept moving till I got angry and spoke to

him from behind. “Haba driver, you know we are going to a far place

and you keep stopping every single time”. It was as if I spoke to the

luggage because he clearly ignored me, in fact they all did. I just saved

my strength and tried to sleep but the baby girl who was some few

months old kept crying. She was so uncomfortable due to the heat but

there was nothing we could do but to manage. I called Isaac to know

where they were. He said they were at Benue Makurdi. I was a bit

surprised and asked “guy una don suppose dey approach Cross river

nah, what happened?” because they left the park a bit earlier “omo

babe our car spoil but we are taking off now.” “ehh, be like say I go

soon come pass una '' immediately I told him that our own car stopped.

I was surprised “ahan driver what happened, is it the tyres?” “nooooo,

it’s time to eat.”

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It's 1:23am and we just entered Cross river state due to all the

military checkpoints and immigration checkpoints asking for means of

identification. I was so tired at this point but fully awake. Then a man in

my vehicle started talking about witches in Calabar and how they do

operate. Of all times to talk about this but by 1am. I decided to call Seun

and asked if he had reached. I met Seun on WhatsApp. His contacts

were shared to me by Promise, he is a friend of mine and we bonded

well. He left Ogbomosho on Thursday and till Saturday he was on the

way to Cross River “what happened? It's been three days now you

have been on the road. Is that how far Ogbomoso is?” “Me I don’t

know oooo. The car spoilt on the road sha and it took almost 3 hours

to get I repaired.” “Oh, no wonder. That explains it. Don’t worry you

will soon reach.” We were approaching a checkpoint. He was about to

ask about my own journey. “Seun, I’m approaching a checkpoint and

will call you later.” And I ended the call. When you are approaching a

checkpoint and you are caught answering a call or loitering the place by

throwing dirt from your car through the window, you would be punished

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for it because of the law. So, in order to be on a safe side and not get

punished, you end whatever call you have.

Both cars stopped at Ogoja to transfer passengers who were going

to Calabar to move to the bus and all corpers to move to the sienna car.

We spent close to an hour in Ogoja, unloading the luggage and

transferring it to another vehicle was a journey on its own. We left Ogoja

at about 2:11am. All corpers were in the sienna car. We were 6 corpers, 5

boys (Prince, Wale, Ugo, Isaac and Mike) and I was the only girl.

The journey from Ogoja to Obubra was dreadful. Why? Because I

tried to sleep and couldn’t. My body was exhausted but my brain was

fully active. I guess it’s the effect of the energy drink I took. Energy

drink contains high level of sugar and caffeine which may produce

symptoms of irritability, anxiety and sleeplessness which explains why I

couldn’t sleep. Everyone in the car was asleep on our way to Obubra. I

closed my eyes hoping to sleep but the bumps on the road and the

constant interview from military and immigration officers by the

roadside made it impossible for me to do so.

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ARRIVAL

Entering Obubra I couldn’t help but notice the change in

atmosphere. Obubra is a Local Government of Cross River state which

is a Southern State where the NYSC camp orientation exercise takes

place. Each state in the country Nigeria has an orientation camp situated

in a particular Local Government Area. It felt damp and you could

notice a damp smell. The vegetation is very different from that of the

North.

The vegetation is that of a tropical rainforest filled with tall trees

and climbers and this is due to the high and constant rainfall in the south.

I saw a sign board which stated that we are close to the orientation camp.

I couldn't help but feel anxious. We arrived at the camp gate at 3:59am.

And were guided by the military personal on duty who was positioned

on the watch tower on where to park our vehicle by the right-hand side

of the gate. We were surrounded by trees, mostly palm trees. The driver

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helped in offloading our luggage from the car and also helped me to

carry my box across the gate. To my surprise we were not the only ones

who traveled through the night. Some corp members were sleeping by

the gate close to the security men office.

The soil was reddish in color. Anyone who scratches his feet or

hand on this soil due to an accident is sure to have a deep and painful

injury. Almost similar to that of Otukpo Local Government in Benue

State. We were ushered to make a straight line for our properties to be

searched for any sharp objects, metal objects, extensions, raw food, gas

cylinders, heavy electronics(laptop) etc. Some corp members brought

the above-mentioned items due to the fact that they won’t be returning

home after the orientation exercise and would move directly to their

place of primary assignment (PPA). When the driver was driving the car

out of the parking lot, I felt like following him. Prince was the first

person to be checked and some of his properties were collected by the

officer on duty which is to be returned to him on our passing out day

from the camp. I was the second to be checked. “Babe come forward.” I

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dragged my box and opened it. The officer yawned, you could see he

had not had enough sleep pouting his lips and squeezing his face. “Let

me see your call up letter.” I opened my pink swiss polo box which I

borrowed from my aunt. Bringing out my transparent file, I opened it

and presented my call up letter to him. He nodded his head and moved

my box closer to him for him to inspect. He couldn’t use his hands to

search my box, I don’t know if it’s because I’m a girl and he is a guy but

either way I used my hands to bring out my properties while he used his

eyes to scan through my box. I brought out my provisions and he

shouted “babe only you!” he exclaimed. And that was how I met Officer

Jerry.

I was given a mattress to lie on by a female soldier at the gate

before meditation commenced on the meditation ground. I took out my

phone from my bag and messaged Seun, telling him I had arrived,

thankfully he was online. “hey I have reached. How about you?” “me I

reached since ooo.” “ok that’s good but, where are you? “I’m at the

gate, you?” “same. I’m putting on a white t-shirt and blue jean.” “ahh

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babe almost everyone is putting on a white shirt.” “ok, when the day is

bright I will call you lets meet.” “ok no problem, bye.” And I ended the

call.

I laid down and tried to fall asleep. “peeeeeee” that was the sound

of the whistle signaling corps members to assemble at the meditation

ground and the Muslims to move to the mosque for morning prayers.

Corp members dressed in white t-shirts, white shorts, white socks with

two green stripes at the top of the socks, a white shoe and waist pouch

where all their belongings like phone, keys, ATM cards, money etc. are

kept matched from their hostels towards the meditation ground and

queued according to their platoon. While we who were just coming and

were in personals joined a separate line. After praise and worship, we

had an assembly where various announcements were being passed. At

6am the trumpet was a sound which signals every living thing on that

meditation ground to stop any form of movement and respect the raising

of the Nigerian flag. Each living person is to stand at attention and sing

the National anthem which is also known as Waking up Nigeria.

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REGISTRATION

After meditation and joining our Muslim brothers and sisters, we

were asked to wait behind while other corp members dressed in white

were asked to move for their morning drill. We were given a bottle of

drink, water and biscuit as a welcome package into the camp for the

orientation exercise. I was smiling like the head of a fish feeling lucky to

be in this camp. Little did I know that frustration awaits me.

The ladies were guided towards the girl’s hostel and the boys

towards the boys’ hostel. Waiting in line to write our names inside a

notebook. Two girls stood behind me and were speaking their dialect

(Yoruba) and three other girls in front of me did the same. I turned and

smiled at the girls behind me. I was feeling out of place, talking to

myself I said “seems nah only me be igbo for here oo. I don enter.”

The girl behind me heard me and asked what’s my name and I answered

“my name is Grace.” She nodded her head and asked “how about your

igbo name?” I laughed nervously and answered “I don’t like saying it

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but either way my igbo name is Nneka.” “My name is Adesola Fisayo

but you can call me Ade.” And that was how I met Ade.

“Calabar hostel, room 5. That’s your hostel and room number.”

Instruction given to each lady that completes her registration. The

hostels were named by the different Local Governments in Cross River

state and different tourist sites hence the name of my hostel Calabar

Hostel. One thing I was eager for in Cross River was to visit the tourist

sites i.e. The Cattle Ranch located in Obudu, Oban forest Reserve, The

Slave History Museum, Kwa Waterfalls, Tinapa Resort, Agbokim

Waterfalls, Millennium Park, Summit Hills, Drill Ranch etc. The only

problem is the distance. Cross River has a massive land mass of about

20,156km; do the math. The distance from each local government in the

state is up to 6-8 hours. So, when traveling to these tourist sites, one has

to prepare his/her mind for the distance.

I dragged my box to the hostel as fast as I could in order to get a

good bed space and mattress. Entering into the Calabar hostel, there was

an open field in the middle of the building where female corp members

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were permitted to wash and dry their clothes. No one was allowed to

wash on the platform. Dragging my box over the stairs was not as easy

as packing my clothes into the box. I began to wonder what exactly I put

in my box that made it so heavy, oh! my provisions. Entering the hostel, I

started sneezing due to the dust when fellow corps members were taking

their mattress from one bunk to another. I got a good bed space which

was adjacent to the door. To my greatest surprise, Ade was directly

beside me and I felt a bit pleased that I’m with someone I can

communicate easily with.

Was done arranging my things and tying my mosquito net to the

bunk. Next thing to do was to go for camp registration in order to be

given your NYSC kits and state code. I saw corp members with their

food flask going to collect food. Before I could rush in and get my flask,

the kitchen staff were done sharing. Omo nah so we go dey ahhh. I

dragged my legs back to the hostel, disappointment and tiredness clearly

showing on my face. I sat down to catch my breath. A new corp member

walked in and came towards me with her friend. By this time the bunks

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in the room were almost filled up and the up-bunks were vacant. Flora

was my bunky and her friend Christy was Joy’s bunky.

Remember I had not slept from Friday till Saturday. Still in my

blue ripped jeans and white shirt which was actually turning brown due

to sweat. I looked and felt so tired but had no choice but to drag my feet

to the hall with my documents. On my way there I called Prince and

Isaac and we met at the hall together with Wale, Mike and Ugo. We all

sat at a bench and were moving in sync till it was our turn to be

registered. We submitted the required documents and wrote down our

bank details for payment of monthly allowance (the sweetest part). At

the end of the registration I was issued the state code 1001. I know right

unique number. Would have been given a state code in between 700-900

but due to my laziness I kept procrastinating when to get registered. I

was not wanting to be registered until Monday but when I heard that

without registration you would not be given your NYSC kit although I

had my white kits but my love to own that Khaki motivated me to go get

registered.

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I Was giving two white t-shirts, a khaki trouser, khaki jacket, belt,

head dress with the NYSC logo printed on it, crested vest, two white

shorts, white tennis shoes crested with the NYSC logo, jungle boot

which was orange in color and some booklets. Nope they were not my

size. The jungle boots were size 39 and I use size 40-41. So, I had to

look for someone with shoe size 40 or 41 to exchange with and I got

someone to because I was not ready to spend close to 3000 naira in

adjusting of boots. The Khaki trouser was actually my size but was a bit

tight at the hip side. Joy, my corner mate by my left, was who I

exchanged mine with, although hers was a bit bigger. Mine fitted her a

little but she still took hers to Mammy market for adjustment which

would cost her 1000-1500 naira. I thank God I went with two extra

white shorts and white t-shirts. Some of the white kits were small. Like

one of the white t-shirts given to me was like half blouse. And was

happy when I had extra. At least I won’t look weird.

I was in Platoon 1 (platoon stands for a family each corp member

is expected to belong to). I took 8 passports with me to the camp and

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here I was left with only two. Why? After bank registration issued by the

government, ID card creation and meal ticket creation, you would be left

with 2 passports if possible none at all. After gallivanting round the

camp, I took little of my provision to eat. Went to take a shower because

the light was out by 10:30pm, so I laid on my bed. “Finally,” was all I

could say to myself. I tried to sleep but there was one pressing issue. The

weather was damn hot and it felt unbearable. The hostel fans were

turned on which made it a little bit bearable. I was finally reaching my

fathers land in my dream when the lights went off. And guess what, the

fans too were off. “Ah God is this what i will face for the next 20

days?”

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WORSHIP

I was not able to attend Sunday mass due to how tired I was.

Although I heard the announcement from a NACC (Nigerian

Association of Catholic Corpers) member about mass which would hold

in the chapel by 6am sharp. I woke from sleep at about 5:57am. No time

to get dressed at all. I made up my mind not to attend any church service

or mass. So, I positioned myself another round before my mum’s call

came in. the woman has been calling every 1 hour ever since I left Jos.

Both she and Alice called every now and then. We spoke for almost 20

mins, asking how I was feeling and how I slept. Because of constant

calling and pressing of phone my battery was dying fast. Although I was

with a power bank, it was not enough. One had to manage usage because

at first, we were charging phones in Mammy market at the rate of 100

naira and power banks at the rate of 200 naira. But along the line things

changed as when price of fuel shot up. We started charging phones at the

rate of 200 naira and power banks at the rate of 300 naira. So, imagine

spending 500 naira daily.

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You know when you find yourself in a new environment you find it

hard to fall asleep. “please take care of yourself. You know I don’t have

you people plenty.” I smiled and promised her I will. We are only 4

children. Two girls and two boys with me being the first child, their first

fruit.

After service, I retired back to my hostel to wash my clothes. We

didn’t really have any activity on Sunday except for church service. I

was not able to get breakfast because I was in church. Bread, butter and

tea which we call hot water was served. By 2pm the bigul was blown.

This was to signal corp members that it’s time for lunch. You don’t need

to ask what was being served because there was a timetable all camps

were to follow. But before I went to collect my food with my meal

ticket, I called a friend who met on WhatsApp. He was also from Jos.

We were supposed to come to Obubra together but I was not ready. He

left Jos on Thursday which was on the 16th of March while camp opened

on the 15th of March. I called him to know where he was because I didn’t

know him facially nor had we met. “hey, how far. Please, where are

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you? “I’m close to OBS tap.” “Are you with anyone?” “yes ““ahhh

can you come meet me? I’m close to the hall” “I can’t leave my

friends, try and come.” Then he ended the call. I had to chop mind to go

meet him. And yes, he was with his friends. A girl and a guy.

Approaching him when he turned I started smiling as usual. No lies he

was handsome and had a nice physique.” You are Grace, right?”

nodding my head like an agama lizard. “yes, I am.”

We hugged and I greeted his friends. His name was Prosper, the

lady with him her name was Promise (a cool name, right?) and a tall fair

handsome guy with beards, his name was Justin. Sunday’s lunch was

jollof rice with chicken. The chicken meat is like the size of my finger.

The food was ok, I mean it was manageable although it really didn’t go

well with me but I still ate it anyway. Every meal some market people

would be beside the hall shouting “buy stew”, “buy milk” “buy meat”.

Anywhere and anytime business can be promoted in this country. The

day I went to buy the stew when rice and stew was being served was the

last day I bought it because there was no difference with the one that was

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being sold and the one that was being served. It’s all part of the

experience. And yes, you were to be dressed in your complete kit. What

I mean by complete kit is to be dressed in your white t-shirt, white

shorts, white socks, waist pouch (any color), white shoe, NYSC cap,

your state code tag which is hanged around your neck. And the most

important tool I’m always in possession of is my pink water bottle.

3:30 pm the bigul was blown which warns corp members that it’s

time for parade. The bigul is always blown 30 minutes before the ideal

time and the whistle follows suite at the fixed time. We moved towards

the parade ground in our complete kit. Grouping ourselves in our various

platoons. “babe please can you snap me” a petit fair lady spoke to me. I

nodded my head, collecting her phone I snapped her. “Please can you

also snap me? Let me send to my mum. She has been disturbing me

that she wants to see me in the white outfit.” “no problem”. She was

using an iPhone 11 pro while I was using a Samsung phone. After

posing like a model in white shorts, I asked her for her name and if she

was on WhatsApp. “my name is Bola” “I’m Grace nice to meet you.

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Please can you send me the picture on WhatsApp?” “sure” And that

was how I met baby Bola.

Our Platoon commander arrived just in time to direct us on what to

do on the Parade ground. I on the other hand ran from the Parade field to

a place where you can seat and watch what’s happening on the field. The

place is cemented and it requires taking two steps to climb into the

place. It is also roofed to shield anyone there from harsh sun and rainfall.

I went and sat there. If I was asked by any military person why I’m I

seated here? I would tell them I don’t feel so well. Some would ignore

and move on while some would give one or two dramatic speech on why

women are lazy. I met Miracle a platoon member of mine. She too was

seated there. I asked what’s the problem and she said she is having a

terrible running stomach ache. “then go to the camp clinic nah. Since

its disturbing you.” She shook her head. “Noooo, I want to watch

what’s happening on the field.” “ok then. Let’s seat together and

watch.” I sat beside her and introduced myself. “I’m Grace an Igbo

girl and you?” “I’m Miracle” I interrupted her with “Let me guess, you

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a Yoruba girl.” She laughed and nodded her head “yes I am. You

guessed right.” “Ah it’s your people that full this camp oo”

6pm dinner was ready. Yam porridge and fried fish was served. I

hurriedly walked to the hostel to grab my flask and meal ticket. The line

was so long when I got back and I couldn’t imagine myself joining the

line from behind. I looked for Prince, why? Because Prince is always in

front or he must definitely have a line in the middle. And I found him. I

collected my meal and left the place. Went to the entrance of the hall to

wait for Mike and Ugo. “Guy where is Prince nah?” I was asking ugo

and Mike because after we collected food, I didn’t see him, again. Ugo

responded “him go sheet. Again? I thought he just went before we

went to collect food?” I had to ask because I was a bit confused. Mike

chipped in “when him go dey eat five people food nah why him go dey

sheet anyhow.” And that was the last day I took dinner from the

dinning. Guess why? because I purged for 3 days straight. I really don’t

know why but I avoided the dinning food and was feeding on my

provisions and food from Mammy(apparently) market.

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UP S.A.E.D

“No employment S.A.E.D is the answer”. All I could hear was the

screeching of buckets being dragged from under the bed. “God is it that

this people don’t sleep.” We sleep by 11pm at the most and wake by

3am. Some person’s wake by 2:30am. Only God knows what they are

looking for by that time. Sometimes it was hard to sleep. The room was

hot, Too hot! We were 40 in a room and the fans didn’t work when the

lights were off. The bathroom and toilets were hmmmmmm. Not bad

though but as a lady I had to get little bucket like the smallest size to
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ease myself and dispose it in the toilet. I checked my phone and it was

just 3:02 am. What the hell? I wanted to go back to sleep but the I

remembered I’m not home and the bathrooms might get filled. Would

have not bothered but had my bath outside the bathroom but it was

against the law. I dragged my lazy ass up and moved towards the

bathroom. Dark circles could be seen clearly under my eyes due to lack

of sleep. I was counting days to leave camp. In fact, we all were

counting days to leave camp. By 4am I was dressed and climbed my bed

to continue from where I stopped, 4;30am the bigul was blown when I

was just about to reach my fathers house. I still closed my eyes and

continued before the whistle was blown by the female soldiers. Its time

to go to the meditation ground. I climbed down from the bed and put on

my white rubber shoes. Putting on my cap, placing my phone and other

valuables into my waist pouch, spraying my French coffee perfume,

applying my lip gloss, I was off. I tried to go early in other not to run to

the meditation ground or serve punishment but we were still forced to

run. They were almost in all angles of the camp shouting at us to double

up. Day 3 of camp. I started folding the waist of my shorts, it was

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becoming lose. Reaching meditation ground I saw some new recruits by

the gate.

Monday was the last day for camp registration. I joined the line in

platoon 1. Since I was not familiar with anybody, I folded my hands and

was looking straight ahead of me. Nodding my head in sync to the praise

and worship songs which was led by corp members in the evangelic

committee. Someone tapped me from behind. I turned and was met with

the gracious face of Bola. She smiled at me and we greeted.

Our conversation was cut short due to various announcement

which was being passed by the camp director. The only announcement I

heard was when one of the camp coordinators announced that we would

be having S.A.E.D lecture starting from 9am-2pm. I shouted. 5hours

class? Back in the university the longest time frame I had spent in a

lecture is 4hrs, an hour and 30 minutes from that 4 hours is gone due to

late coming. So, 5 hours class sounded impossible to me, each platoon

were required to go for morning lectures and morning drill starting from

the meditation ground by stretching and little dance moves with the aid

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of directions from Man o War. Platoon 1 and 2 were to move to the hall

for morning lectures while other platoons move to the parade ground for

morning drill. The lecture lasted from 6:30am – 7:58 am. Most of us

slept half way in the lecture. Imagine we sleeping in a one-hour class

guess how the five hours class would be like? Truth be told, if I’m asked

what was being thought in the first morning lectures, I will tell you

nothing. Don’t get me wrong, you see this answering of nature call. You

can’t run from it. I tried fighting off the sleep but it was of no use. The

more I tried the sleepier I become. The sound of the bigul was heard and

all corp members present in the hall breathed a sigh of relieve. Those

that where lost in sleep woke up.

Breakfast was served but as usual I didn’t go. Instead I was in the

hostel feasting on my provision. Rested a little and got ready for the

almighty S.A.E.D. I went into the hall looking for a soft and nice spot to

execute my plan of sleep. Prince waved me from the front seat. I was

signaling him to come behind but he refused. The hall was getting filled,

I had no choice but to sit there and that was the worst decision I ever

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made in that camp. I couldn’t sleep, if I tried the officials in front would

see me and I’m not ready to go in front and face the whole crowd or I

can get snapped by my fellow corp members sleeping and the picture

can be posted on all social media platforms. In a way enjoyed the

lecture. We were taught the basic language of Cross river and a little

about the culture. We were also taught on what the sound of the bigul

actually means. The lyrics of the bigul is ‘you won come, you won

come, no be you say you won come.’ That sound from the bigul was my

nightmare. When you want to sleep in the afternoon, it would be blown.

When you want to drink garri, it would be blown. It was like rapture in

camp.

Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurial Development is the full

meaning of S.A.E.D the five hours mental torture till lunch. Its an

avenue where corpers are taught different skills they can venture into

during and after their service year. Skills included are Knitting, Barbing,

Catering, shoe making, Agro-allied, Education, Film and photography,

Food processing/Preservation, ICT, Auto mobile, Beauty and

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Construction, Culture and Tourism, Makeup and Hair dressing,

Cosmetology etc. It was also an avenue where banks like WEMA bank

promoted some of their courses which free access was granted to corp

members and some free Microsoft training by NNPC. It was a long and

intense lecture. That is the first lecture I actually paid attention to.

*********************************************************

There was a presentation of business plan by corp members.

Access bank were the host of this exercise. What was required from corp

members was that he/she was to present a business plan for his/her

desired or existing business. The winner would be given 1 million-naira,

first runner up 750,000-naira, second runner up 500,000 and third runner

up 300,000 naira. That was for the first five winners while the last five

would be given 100,000 naira as compensation for participating. Two

members were to represent each platoon. And two members from each

platoon sums up to twenty representatives. And only 10 would be

selected and out of that 10, only 5 persons would be given the

opportunity to present. I was rooting for Vincent: Our Platoon leader,

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representative of our platoon and the first person to be in camp. And

also, Christy. The presentation took place and I must commend it was a

hot one. Vincent presented a blog to help users when accessing the

internet while Christy presented a plan for her locust bean business.

questions where thrown to her and she answered each of them correctly.

Shouting and supporting both Christy and Vincent from were I was

seated, I dragged the attention of a corp member. Gbemi was a skilled

writer and had closed deals on LinkedIn. We were saying almost

everything in sync when Vincent was presenting his plan. And this was

possible because we both were into the tech world and understood what

Vincent was presenting.

The winner was announced starting from the third runner up, the

second runner up who was Vincent, the first runner up and Christy the

winner of the business plan presentation and also the winner of the

twitter challenge. The twitter challenge was that each participant should

post about the ongoing program and tag access bank. The person with

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the highest retweets and likes wins and would be gifted 50,000-naira

cash prize. And Christy won them all.

After S.A.E.D was where, we were directed to go in for opening of

our various government approved account. Each corp member opened

an account issued by the federal Government according to state code. I

fell under FCMB bank. My monthly allowance would be paid into the

FCMB account instead of my personal account. This is so for easy

disbursing of allowance each month end.

“Are you my Platoon member?” I was asked this question

standing close to the line for bank registration. I smiled as usual and

nodded my head. “Yes, fine man I’m your platoon member. Platoon

one, right?” “Ahh calm down babe, I’m married.” My eyes shot open

in disbelief. This fine slim, young, tall figure standing in front of me is

married? I refused to believe him. It’s a lie. I refuse to believe. He

chuckled and the next line busted my head. “Let me shock you, I am

also father.” Quan, a father and a husband. That was how I met Quan.

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SWEARING IN CEREMONY

On Tuesday the 21st of March was our swearing in ceremony and

welcome party. Before our swearing in we were called Prospective corp

members and we were not allowed to put on the 7/7 khaki outfit. We

were only permitted to put on the white kits. After our swearing in we

were then known as corp members or corpers. And that is when the true

camp activities commenced. We had our morning meditation and

announcement was passed on how we were to be dressed for the

ceremony. We were to be dressed in 6/7. Which means we were to be

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seen in our crested vest, khaki trouser, white stockings, jungle boots, belt

and head dress. The khaki jacket was exempted. We were so egger to put

on our 6/7. It was that day I saw the real shape of some people. Don’t get

me wrong, I know God created us in his image and likeness. Hence, we

are all beautiful but you will agree with me that some shapes can be

extreme especially those girls that went ahead to shape their khaki

trousers. It looked so tight and with just a squat the trouser will tear

open. I wont lie we looked so smart in our outfits. We looked like junior

soldiers waiting for our special assignment.

Awaiting the State Governor to be present in our swearing in

ceremony. This exercise would take place in all camps across all the 36

states in Nigeria. It was a National ceremony and no Prospective Corp

Member would want to miss it. We were prepared from 11am. Everyone

was taking a snapshot to keep for memory sake and to send to their

loved ones. There is this joy our parents show when they speak about

their child being a corper. This vibe of my child is now Government

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property and we would be Government property after the swearing in

ceremony.

I got tired of waiting and started dozing off on a bench close to the

hall with Opeyemi, Ade’s bunk mate by my side. What made me stand

up was the need of water to quench my thirst. I left my waist pouch in

the hostel with my money in it, as we were not permitted to put on our

waist pouch when we are on our Khaki. 1:30pm and the State Governor

had still not arrived. That saying of African time is really affecting us in

all our activities. (African time means coming hours late after the actual

time). It was almost time for lunch but we were not permitted to move to

the hostel. The whistle was blown, signifying us to move to the parade

ground. The State Governor was very close and we were to be fully

prepared upon his arrival. We all moved to the parade ground and

positioned ourselves platoon by platoon. With the Red cross corp

members behind us. I really wanted to join the Red cross society on

camp so that I won’t do strenuous activities especially on the parade

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ground. Little did I know, I’m not the only one that had that motive in

mind.

I never got to see the State Governor of Cross River State due to

some unforeseen circumstances. A representative was sent on his behalf.

That was the least of my problem. My legs were aching from standing

especially in the jungle boots because its new. The representative

introduced himself and granted us permission to commence with he

swearing in ceremony. The National Youth Service Anthem 1st standards

were sung by all corp members.

Youths obey the clarion call

Let us lift our nation high

Under the sun or in the rain

With dedication and selflessness

Nigeria is ours, Nigeria we serve.

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The oat taking followed suit. We displayed what we had been

practicing on the parade ground for the past four days. Saluting the

officials, presenting the national flag, presentation of each representative

from various platoon to the officials, removing and putting on our head

dress with instructions given by the parade commander. Fun fact was

that the parade commander was a lady not a boy. The camp activities

and competition were declared open. We were so happy to be sworn in

and properly known as corp members. The camp competition consisted

of football, volley ball for the ladies, match pass, dance competition,

cultural festival etc. before the swearing in and oat taking came to an

end, ”Chai I have lost my actual skin color”. Due to the sun, I looked

darker than my actual self. God, Obubra sun burnt me and its not small

burn ooo. Some of us danced to the music on the parade ground after the

ceremony. I switched on my data and posted some of the pictures taken

to oppress my enemies. When it was time for dinner. I went to meet

Seun and his friends, Bayo, Christy who were my saving grace at their

usual spot at Mammy market. Guess what we ordered? spiced Indomie

and two fried eggs. Although Indomie instant noodles do upset my

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tummy a lot but I still ate it. It’s one of my favorite meal and a bit better

than the dinning food.

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MAN O’ WAR

“What’s your state code?” Joshua our platoon secretary asked. “1001”

“Wow, a unique number.” And he moved to the next person. Every

morning on the meditation ground, each platoon secretary takes

attendance of corp members present on the meditation ground. If you are

ticked present, it means you are present in camp. And if you are ticked

absent, means you are absent in camp. And anyone absent on mediation

ground would face the camp court and be punished.

“Platoon 1. You guys would have your Man O War drill today.

Which means no lecture for you today. Tomorrow, platoon 2 would

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have theirs and it follows that routine up until Platoon 10.’ This was

the announcement given to us by one of the camp coordinators. We were

expected to be dressed in our complete kit 7/7 and move towards the

Man O War drill field. Oh! I have been anticipating this day. After the

meditation I ran to the hostel to pick my khaki trouser for repair. It was

not torn but a bit tight at the hip region and if I were to go for this drill,

when climbing a rope, it’s going to definitely tear. I took my trouser to

Mammy market for addition of material. This seamstress charged me

2000naira. I laughed “did you say 2,000 for just addition of material

only at the hip region?” she nodded her head. “Aha madam I no get

2000-naira ooo. Its 1000 naira I have.” We dragged and dragged until

she gave in. 2,000 is an outrageous amount just for addition of material

at the hip region. Back in Jos this will cost just 200 naira. For which I

would still drag for 100 naira and if it’s my friend, I wont even pay at

all.

Reaching the drilling ground, I noticed an orientation of how to go

about the drill had been shown to the corp members. I came late. I

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waited behind and saw how some of my friends in the platoon did theirs

and I picked from them. I looked for Baby Bola and found her gawking

at what others were doing. Same as Dammie. I met Dammie on the

parade ground. A tall fair pretty lady on low cut. She was tired and

rested her head on my left shoulder then she asked what perfume I was

wearing. I told her the name which was French Coffee. It has this Italian

coffee smell when you wear it, the smell is sweet and it lasts. “wow I

love the perfume. It really nice.”

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The first drill was to use a rope to cross over to the next stage. The

second was the almighty barb wire crawl. The second was to crawl pass

a tyre then crawl under the barb wire to move to the next stage. Bola

went before I did and was squeezing her face like a baby whose sweet

got snatched from. My hair got stuck in the barb wire. I tried to crawl

but didn’t want to get my khaki dirty either way I still got dirty and my

hair was still stuck in the barb wire. I tried and tried but it was of no use.

I was later set free by one of the man O war instructor to move to the

next stage which was to walk over a wood with our hands held out side

ways. Every step we took we were snapped by the photographers present

in camp. Yep, it was like a photo shot competition. Approaching the

almighty wall climbing. You are expected to run, and use your right leg

on the wall to support you as you lift yourself up and turn over to the

next side. Now this is where people’s khaki trouser tore like no mans

business. If the Mammy tailors were here, they would be smiling at the

torn trousers.

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“I can’t do this” I tried to pull myself up but I could not. It was

damn hard but was able to do so with the help of the instructor. Truth be

told, I was having fun at this drill. We laughed at how some persons

where so scared to climb the ladder on the tree to cross over to another

tree. I was not able to complete all the drill due to time. It was time for

breakfast and one thing I noticed with the military is that they don’t play

with timing. Wrapping up the drill, we had group picture of all Platoon

one members. This was one of the best days in camp until I slept and

woke up. My body was paining me. I think is the after math of the drills.

I felt like a car ran over me. My hands and laps where aching. I was

walking like someone who is 8months pregnant.

I went to the field before parade and watched how guys where

playing football. Sometimes I really want to join in various sporting

activities but due to some reasons I can’t. A tall, slim, chocolate guy

approached me and introduced himself to me as king. He is a very jovial

and fun person to be with. I laughed most of the time I was there with

him. We spoke about the different believes of different culture and in a

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way, I saw him like a big brother I never had. Another guy chipped into

our conversation. He is not a jovial as King but calm and collected. His

name was Ugochukwu. We shook hands when the bigul was blown

signaling corp members that its almost time for Parade.

After breakfast, the almighty S.A.E.D 5 hours mental torture

started. I looked for where there was fan. I didn’t get any so I sat in the

middle row behind with two guys by my right-hand side. All through the

lecture I was pressing my phone, scrolling through different social media

platforms. Commenting and reposting relevant and interesting videos

which are related to my digital marketing business until Daniel tapped

me. I removed my pods and smiled at him, asking him how may I help

him. “Babe you have been smiling and giggling for the pass 1 hour.

What’s up?” nothing really, just some tiktok videos about digital

marketing and freelancing.” Wow you into freelancing? I nodded my

head. “I’m also into freelancing on LinkedIn although I have not been

active for a while.” We spoke through out the S.A.E.D lecture till time

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for lunch. We exchanged numbers and that was how I connected with

Daniel.

I was feeling a bit weak and hunger was at the peak. And I didn’t

want to eat the dining food because it affects my system and I didn’t

know if it’s the water that was being used to cook the food. I don’t know

but what I know is that my stomach rumbles when I eat the dinning

food. It was night time and I was looking for Seun but didn’t see him. I

sat close beside the hall under a tree and rested my head on my legs with

my hand supporting my head. An officer passed and asked if I was ok

and suggested I go to the camp clinic if I don’t feel too well. I nodded

my head and told him I’m fine. Another corp member passed and asked

if I was ok. And as usual I told him I’m ok. He sat beside me and

insisted I go to the camp clinic if I don’t feel alright. When I rose my

head, he was talking and stopped talking. I asked what’s the problem,

“nothing just……you look pretty but stressed”. I smiled and told him,

I’m just hungry and tired. “What will you like to eat?” I laughed and

said “first of all, I don’t even know your name and this is the first time

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I’m seeing you in camp. Secondly my platoon leader has offered to get

me dinner and he went to get it in Mammy. Either way what’s your

name?” “My name is Prosper” I shouted immediately. “Not another

Prosper again.”

The next day I sat at a different position close to the door.

Ugochukwu came and sat down beside me. At least I have someone to

gist with during the S.A.E.D lecture. I introduced him into Amazon KDP

and enticed him to buy the step by step blue print from me. And yes, the

sale was a success. After parade I looked for Seun. I went to his usual

spot in Mammy market but I couldn’t find him. I called and he didn’t

pick. I saw Christy, a girl from WHO group who came to camp together

from Obubra and asked if she had seen him. “Babe, how far. Please

have you seen Seun. I have been calling him but his not picking.” “I

have not seen him but if I do I will let him know.” I kept calling and

calling and stopped when I saw him. He was coming out of his hostel

with a frown on his face. I wondered what happened and went to

comfort him. “Seun what happened I have been calling and you not

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picking.” “babe I am not in the mood.” “what happened?” “My shoe

was stolen.”

Was settling in for the night when Odi call came in. Odi, the back

bone of my spine. The flesh of my flesh in the university days. My joy.

He is someone who can and will stand by me through thick and thin no

matter the circumstances. “Babe how you doing over there?” “Odi I am

tired. Like I am tiredddddd.” He didn’t respond but was laughing “Odi

are you laughing at me?” “Noooo I am singing. No be you go

register? You never see anything.” “Odi don’t worry, it must reach

everybody?”

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SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

In an open-air theatre with corp members scattered everywhere,

sitting and facing the theatre with the judges at the front we had various

social activities. I was surprised to see that Joshua who always shouts

“we love you” in any gathering was the MC and his second was a lady

from platoon 10. This Joshua is a different one from the one who marks

attendance every morning on the meditation ground. He is darker and a

bit taller than the other Joshua. What I do call him is ‘Joshua I love

you.’

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Staring from cultural dance to Miss big, bold and beautiful to Mr.

Macho, Miss NYSC, old school and reggae dance which I participated in

and we came 5th. That was the first day I climbed stage to dance since

after my primary school. I was so shy and couldn’t look up. Guess why

we came 5th position out of ten platoons. Not that I can’t dance ooo but

each competition has different requirements for some specific scores.

Each group that is called upon the stage would be scored from the stage

entrance, stage management, time management, customs, uniformity and

exit from the stage. We on the other hand had no costumes. We were in

our Khaki and white shirts which is no where close to a reggae outfit.

All the mouth I made in my hostel. Telling Ade and Opeyemi that we

would come first since I’m dancing. We would be unstoppable. And at

the end of the competition, we came 5th. Daniel congratulated me for

climbing the stage and performing for once for the Platoon.

During the cultural there was this guy in platoon four that carried a

bench with his teeth. Like a whole bench with his teeth. You could see

the veins of his head protruding as he did so. Some people said it was

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jazz but I didn’t believe it. He looked a bit built although he was short

but don’t be deceived by the appearance but be impressed with what one

can deliver. His performance alone was enough to declare Platoon four

winner of the cultural dance competition.

Paying attention to the social activities was a bit hard because

either I’m coming from Mammy trying to get my dinner which is

indomie and egg as usual or I’m with a very good friend of mine talking

about business and importance of romantic relationship. Samuel was his

name but he prefers to be called Odogwu. We usually sit behind the

camp clinic close to a gutter and talk about how he would love to rule

the world. Every night corpers would be in twos. A boy and a girl. There

is one thing we would know. You can’t cheat nature and I’m sure you

know what I mean but relax, nothing of that sort happened.

This was one of the most interesting part of camp where you get to

witness different talents. It’s a night of pure fun and honest laughter. We

were not allowed to be in the hostels during the social activities because

it’s a compulsory activity. After the performance of all platoons the

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judges sit back to calculate the scores and announce the winner of each

competition. As usual my platoon which was platoon 1 always comes

last. At first it was hurting but our Platoon officer always told us to have

fun and not worry if we come last or first. And I’m so glad we did.

“Boy. Please come.” I waved my hand calling the waiter in one of

the restaurants in mammy market. I counted all of us on the table. We

were five in number with Seun included. I told the boy to bring 5

fearless and I gave him my ATM card to make payment. I also saw Isaac

and Ugo in the same restaurant. I stood up from where I was seated and

went to meet them. “Guys howfar.” “we they ooo, we just came to

watch match.” Isaac responded. “show us love nah” I saw a bottle of

Orijin and 5alive on their table. Ordered the same combo for them and

transfered to the person in charge of drinks. Relax, it’s not my allawee I

was using to make all these payments. We were paid our monthly

allowance the second week in camp. I can still remember the joy in our

hearts when we were paid both our monthly allowance and bicycle

allowance. I was able to make payments of all these drinks from my

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commissions gotten from my affiliate commission. And I also sent some

funds home.

My phone was vibrating in my waist pouch. I struggled to get it out

because I was on my way to the hostel. I was successful and checked

the caller ID, it was Gbemi. “Hello?” “Hello Grace, its Gbemi.” “I know.

Good evening.” After the call I met him close to his hostel. The ladies’

hostel was a bit far from the boys’ hostel and before reaching my hostel,

I had to pass by boys’ hostel. I met Gbemi by the road and we got

talking. He introduced me to a writing competition for story writer on

Geegpay. How did he know? During the business plan presentation, we

introduced ourselves in the hall and got to know what we do in the

internet space. I told him I am a digital marketer and a story writer. He

told me he is a copywriter for a company although he freelances now

and then. I registered for the writing competition and submitted my

story. Still waiting for the feedback.

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SECURITY

“I need the security. Security, security”. Ever since I had joined

the security committee I had known no rest from Bola. Second week in

camp, it was announced that each platoon should present two corp

members to fill the security committee. Since I was not actually doing

anything because I joined the drama committee, they were already filled

and had started acting. The drama group was under the social committee.

There were so many committees one could join. We have the OBS, Red

cross, Band, S.A.E.D, Media, Market, Security etc.

Daniel and I stepped out to represent Platoon one in the security

committee because when we were called for kitchen duty, I ran. Each
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platoon is to send representatives for kitchen duty. Their representatives

help the chefs in the kitchen in some little errands and in serving the

food. Failure to do so would attract punishment. Representatives from

each platoon assembled in front of the gate with the Chief Security

Officer (CSO). That was our first meeting. An election was held and

Kenneth emerged as the president of the committee, Chinaza the Deputy,

Chioma the secretary and I the PRO. A list was compiled of all the

members in the committee in other to share duty posts and open a

WhatsApp group where valid information would be passed. Every

morning after meditation we were to hold a meeting by the gate with all

security committee corp members present together with the CSO. We

were also given security tags to identify with the military and Man O

War instructors that we are with them. You know that feeling of being a

spy or to be undercover? that was exactly how I felt.

We were the first people to be posted to the gate. Kenneth, Chinaza

and I. the job was simple. Anytime we had lectures, we were to go for

lectures and also when it’s time for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We were

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not able to stay over the night at the gate due to the fact that we were not

trained uniform personals. So, our duty ends after 6pm when the

Nigerian flag is brought down. We all got to know how the gate operates

and all the different armed forces at the gate. I still met officer Jerry but

he couldn’t recognize me. I didn’t bother stressing myself to make him

recognize me. I got to meet Officer David who was interested in reading

books and Officer Jerry who was so so interested in making money

online and Officer Emmanuel who was trying so hard to win Chioma’s

heart by the gate.

Staying at the gate was the best place to escape parade. Trust me,

parade is interesting but it is damn tiring and frustrating. Just go to the

gate with your charged phone, power bank and water. Sometimes I

prefer going with my novel. I took some books to read at my leisure time

in camp but in camp there is no such thing as leisure time. The free time

you have is used to sleep and rest before almighty bigul is blown by the

bigul man. The bigul man is a fellow military officer who is in charge of

blowing the bigul. The bigul serves like the camp clock. Each time it is

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blown, every living soul respect it and obeys the next activity. The bigul

man is the time keeper of the camp.

Sometimes we would have parade practice for just an hour and the

whistle would be blown to end parade and practice and clear the field for

football competition. We had the football competition on the field and

Volleyball competition on the court. Bola and I lost interest in the

competitions because our platoon were always coming last. So instead of

we both cheering the players we go and sit close to Mammy market

inside a shop and watch girls passing in different shapes and sizes. We

point out those that are not wearing bra, those that are wearing colored

inner wears and those that are doing notice me for officers.

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FREE DAY

It’s the same routine we have. Morning lecture, breakfast, S.A.E.D,

lunch or NYSC Orientation, parade, social activity and lights out. But on

this faithful day, something different happened. S.A.E.D ended due to

the fact we were rounding up and camp is ending on the 6th March. After

breakfast we where ushered into the hall where we usually hold our

S.A.E.D lecture. Baby Bola and I were just busy lamenting on why

would they call us from the hostel when we don’t have any activity

slated to take place that morning. We went into the hall and sat at the

back, close to the second hall.

There was increased and tightened security in that vicinity. I was

wondering who exactly is this. Not until he stepped in. the Minister of

youth development in Nigeria in person of Mr Ayodele Wisdom

Olawande. He was a dark, average height young man in his early

thirties. He shared some little ideas he has for youthful empowerment

and urged we the corpers not to be shy in displaying our talents. And if

we had any idea that can be beneficial to the youth we should contact

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him. He shared his contact with us and the best part was when he

declared that day a free day. That’s one, secondly, he donated one cow

and gave 100 thousand naira to each platoon. Aha, I danced that day like

no mans business. imagine having a free day in camp. Not doing

anything, just eating and going around. Baby Bola and I danced to the

sound of the music.

We had a meeting with our Platoon officer on what to do with the

money. Some suggested we use the money to rent costumes for the

carnival while some suggested we use the money to buy something and

eat. We dragged and dragged and it was later concluded on what to get.

Guess what we got? We bought cartoons of malt and cooked our own

portion of the cow given to us. 100k well spent. We later kept the empty

cans for us to use and decorate our tent for the carnival.

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100k well spent

At last for once we can sit, gist and drink our groceries and floating

berries in peace (groceries stand for garri and floating berries stands for

groundnut). I spent most of that day in Mammy market with my friend

Quan and his group eating indomie and egg. Also drinking fearless. That

day was fun.

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CULTURAL CARNIVAL

“I tried so hard and got so far. In the end it doesn’t really

matter…..” That was my phone ringing in my ear, someone was calling.

I looked at the caller ID and was a bit shocked. It was Bola. Its strange

for her to be calling me at this hour. It was 7am. “Hello? babe. How far,

good morning. This one you calling me by this time hope all I good?”

“Nothing ooo. I’m just calling to ask if you are on the field.” I was a

bit surprised. “Field? What’s happening on the field?” “Ahh.. you

don’t know? Each platoon is by their tent preparing it for the carnival.

“Wow I never knew. I will get dressed and go to the field to help them.”

I went to the field and located my platoon tent. I scanned the field for

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Bola but couldn’t find her. I called her and she picked after the third ring

“babe must I be looking for you every time like a needle?” “see this

woman oo. What do you mean. Am I that small?” “Abeg where are

you?” she laughed again. I had to ask her why is she laughing. “Bola I

don’t trust you. Why are you laughing?” “I’m still on my bed oooo”

“Jesus I am going to kill you.” “Till you kill me. Please if they are

sharing anything in our platoon tent, please collect my own.” And she

ended the call.

I went to Mammy market with Miracle to search for a gown I

could put on for the carnival. I made a mistake when I didn’t carry

enough clothes. On reaching the shop, I passed a little book store and

was attracted to a book called PYSHCOLOGY OF SELLING by

BRAIN TRACY and 100MILLION OFFER by ALEX HORMOZI. I

had been dying to have the hard copy of these books. I love both books

and had to deliberate on which I should take home. I had 100MILLION

OFFER digital book but had none of Brain Tracy. After much

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deliberation I made payment for Brain Tracy book and moved to the

next shop to purchase the gown.

I was given my traditional attire which was a half top with no

hands and a short skirt sewed with a blue lion head material to put on

together with some red beads to wear on my ankle and head that’s the

outfit of a maiden who is to follow the King and the Queen. I tried the

outfit and I couldn’t come out of my hostel with it. I went to meet Bola

to show her and she was just laughing at me. I felt so exposed as the

skirt was too short and all my tummy was outside. Running back to my

room, I quickly changed into the black gown I bought with Miracle for

the carnival. The design on it was that of the Efik tribe. Different spots

of colors scattered on the front side of the gown. It had this artistic

feeling to it. I returned the clothes but not the beads. I packed my dreads

and placed the beads on my head as a sign of being an Igbo girl. I also

went to Mammy market to fix lashes. At least to add a little drama on

my face. Let me not brag but I was really pretty and hot. I felt it.

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By 2pm we all assembled at the meditation ground in different

attires. It was very colorful. We all matched from there to our tents,

Platoon by Platoon. As usual we were the first to lead. The platoon’s

King and Queen leading the platoon while the rest of us follow suit.

When we arrived at our tent, the King and Queen sat inside the tent

while we sat outside. After the arrival of the officials we started the

carnival. Each Platoon’s tent was inspected. I could bet that Platoon 10

would be the winner of the tent inspection because the costumes they

rented was very colorful and attractive. Also, they had someone sit in

front of their tent dressed in red cloth and his face paint white with a

small lay pot on his hands with smoke emitting from it. Almost all

Platoons had a figure like that in front of their tents. Some tents had

someone painted in green, white, green which is the Nigerian color.

I was seated at the back by the right side of the tent with Opeyemi.

She was a Muslim girl and dressed in a Muslim attire by my left and

Quan by my right. Quan dressed in the Yoruba attire. We were becoming

very close on camp and I had to keep reminding myself that he is

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married. He bought fearless energy drink for me and plantain chips

while he bought origin and peppered meat. He was discussing with his

friends while Opeyemi and I gossiped about Quan. “ah babe seems your

perfume is working ooo. Who is this new catch?” I looked at her and

back at Quan. “ohhh , he is no one just a friend.” “ehh so it means I

can shoot my shot and have him.” “back off babe go and find another

one. This is off limit”. A surge of jealousy swiped into me. Like I said I

had to keep reminding myself that he is married. An evil thought crossed

my mind, “married or not, you go for what you want. “I kept my mouth

shut by keeping my taste buds busy with that little snack until it was

time for inspection.

And after the inspection we all danced toward the judges

showcasing the different tribes we have in Nigeria. My Platoon didn’t

really present as expected. Some of us walked straight to the officers

while some of us danced a little. Initially we were grouped in different

tribes as per our dressing. At least five different tribes. It was a colorful

event. I couldn’t move my waist like the Efik tribe, so I was just doing

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some funny moves. After we presented, the officials passed an

announcement directing us on how we were supposed to present. It was

at this moment we knew we messed up. We were not bothered since we

were just doing everything for fun. After series of presentation, platoon

3 was declared the winner while we platoon 1 didn’t have any position

but we danced anyway.

“You this girl. I am always seeing you with different man every

night.” Everyone turned on their way to the hostel when an officer said

this. Quan was walking me to my hostel when he said it and we both

laughed. I responded. “Officer, if you are always seeing me with a

woman won’t you be worried? Its man I will follow nah.” “Nah you

sabi. Oya leave that hand and move to your hostel.” “But sir.” “don’t

Sir me. Leave that hand or I take you both to camp court.” “ah officer

e never reach like that nah.” “E reach. And you are still holding her

hand.” Ok now he was dragging the attention of other officers.

Immediately I removed my hand from Quan’s and waved him goodbye.

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LAST WORSHIP

“My relocation has to work ooo. If not, I will leave NYSC for you

people.” I was lamenting to Ade, Opeyemi and Christy. “Like this, like

this. My own has already worked because I cannot leave my Fiancé in

Lagos and do 1 year here in Cross River. I must go back.” “Ehh so me

that don’t have Fiance nko?” “Hey Grace. All the guys that used to

take you to Mammy because of your perfume.?” I opened my eyes in

surprise “Which perfume?” “You want to deny now. Are you not the

one that was telling us that your perfume attracts men because it has a

sweet coffee smell?” “I know not what you are saying “I ran out of the

room when both Ade, and Opeyemi where shouting my name.

We were in our last week in camp. For camp was ending on the 6th.

I was not able to attend mass due to the fact that I woke late. I joined

Isaac and his friends at his own church. I wore my blue ripped jean and

white shirt but this time I wore a black flat shoe. We had thanksgiving as

it’s the last Sunday in camp. During the announcement, it was passed

that the Director General of National Youth Service Corps would be

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visiting the camp by 12pm. It was 9am and I am yet to clean my white

shoe. I was about to step out of the church but I met Officer David by

the entrance. We exchanged pleasantries and I rushed to the hostel to get

the job done.

In the hall waiting for the DG. From 12pm to 2:30. It was pass

time for lunch. He arrived at about 2:32 pm. we gave him a standing

ovation and sang the National Youth Anthem. Some issues faced on the

camp were presented to him. Issues like the bad water. The water in the

camp is like the mixture of crude oil and water. Also, the issue of light.

Obubra camp is one of the oldest camps hence most of the facilities were

not that good and needed upgrade. The DG thanked the camp

coordinator and also announced that there would be no relocation. That

was enough to shock corp members from their sleep. I too was also

shocked. I was really planning for my relocation back to Jos, plateau

state where I’m based. He can’t be serious. Although I don’t blame him

because 98% of corp members were relocating back to their state while

2% wants to stay back. And I will also not blame corp members because

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the shege that we faced due to the weather was enough to discourage us

to stay back. And apart from that, Cross River is a very far state from

other states. Even within the state, the Local Governments are far from

each other. We were gifted 3 cows from the DG. Another day to eat

plenty of meat.

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PARADE

The deed day had finally arrived. The last activity to make the

end of camp activities, the day we had been practicing for. The day we

had been singing amebo group or otondo for. The day our three platoon

military officers had been training us for. This is the last camp

competition. And I was among those matching for our platoon. We were

given white hand gloves to separate us from those not participating.

We were inspected by three officers. Starting from our hair dress to

our shoes, how our khaki trousers where put in our white socks to give a

boot shape to the trouser and how our crested vest was tucked in. Each

platoon was inspected before the match pass commenced. Orji was our
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commander and was assisted with two female corp members. Our guide

was the band. The bass was our signal. We started with the slow match

round the field and saluted the officers, we displayed various styles.

Examples of styles are the open order, closed order, arrangement of

members during and after each left and right turn. After the slow match,

the band signaled us by increasing the pace which was time for quick

match. Pascaline a troublesome funny lady who jokes around with Orji

mostly on Parade ground because they were same in height, she was my

match pass partner by my left and Nascent was in front of me. The site

was a sight to behold. We all looked the same, organized and smart.

From a far one would think we were being controlled by a remote.

The dust from the field was too much. Although water was

sprinkled on the ground before the parade but our feet raised the dust.

The mistake I did was that I didn’t put on my face mask. I tried to hold

on, to fight it but I couldn’t and my lungs gave in. suddenly I was out of

breath. I bent over trying to control my breathing but I couldn’t. Soon

after my legs also gave out and I fell to the ground. After series of

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successful attempt to revive me with my inhaler, I was later transported

to the camp clinic in the red cross bus. I was asked to lay down and

steady my breathing. After sometime I was given drugs to help with the

chest pain and to stabilize my breathing. Seun and Bola came to see me

in the clinic. When I felt better Bola offered to get me dinner from

Mammy market. She said I almost gave her a heart attack. Nascent too

was worried and asked how I was feeling. He was with a pretty lady by

his side. Her name was God’sfavour. My only concern was who won the

parade. And finally, for once my platoon took second position.

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ONE MORE DAY TO GO

I have never danced like I did today on the meditation ground. I

danced with the whole of my heart, singing with the whole of my heart.

You know that inner joy of freedom one feels after being locked in a

cage for years. That was exactly how I felt. All type of moves you could

think of, I danced it that day. Daniel was running around the meditation

with his hands in front of him. Honestly, I don’t know what form of

dance was that. Kiss-Daniel-Twe-Twe was the background music, the

power house of the weird types of dance move.

The camp commander came to give us our final announcement.

With the joy in our hearts, it was a bit hard to control us. He was around

the meditation ground, moving in between platoons to get the noise

makers. And he actually did. Whoever he catches making noise he

directs them to move behind and either squat or sit on the floor. I was

gisting with Bola behind before I heard the announcement of my state

code. “Where is 1001?” Waving my hand, I stated “I’m here” and

rushed to the front.

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A letter of commendation was issued to some corp members for

their outstanding performance and selfless contributions to the security

committee. Truth be told I was very very surprised by this. I was

wondering if it’s the constant stay by the gate just to miss parade and

gisting with officers that made this happen. I collected my letter of

commendation and joined a straight line. I was not the only one issued

the letter of commendation. Kenneth to was also issued. Two

outstanding members from each committee was issued a letter. The state

coordinator shaked hands with each of us and we took a group picture.

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No more S.A.E.D, no more parade. We were almost free. The last

activity was the social night which was tagged movie night. Relax, it’s

not a movie night of Jason or The Rock. It was a movie of the history

and start of NYSC. I was at the back and couldn’t see anything. So, I

found Bola at the spot I left her when we were eating our indomie and

egg.

We the security committee members took it upon ourselves to gift

the security a little tookn for making our stay at the gate worthwhile.

Kenneth, Chioma, Chinaza, Daniel and I contributed a little amount to

get something for the security. At least something to help their work a

bit easy. Guess what we got. We bought two big watchman torch light

and engraved our Batch on it. But before it was presented we spoke to

our CSO and he bought the idea. We also bought half crate of malt for

the security team. We presented all these to the Camp Director and took

some shots. The security team was happy with our little surprise and

smiles boomed on all faces by the gate. Especially Officer Jerry and

David. Officer Jerry was on his motorbike to go somewhere. But when

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he saw our package, he dropped down from it. Who will see free malt

and miss it.

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IT’S A WRAP

I never knew this day would arrive. The first POP (passing out

Parade) from camp. The day we know if our relocation to the state of our

choice worked and for those staying back to know there PPA (Place of

Primary Assignment).

We were dressed in our complete kit except the Khaki jacket i.e

6/7. The last breakfast was shared which was bread. Seun gave me his

bread because I was unwell for a while. He told me to eat and take my

drugs for which I was unable to do because as I was approaching the

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Market (Mammy Market) to get water and butter for the bread, it was

time for our final assembly and announcement. We all assembled at the

Parade ground waiting for the final instructions.

The National Youth Service Anthem was sung by all corp

members. Removing of the hair dress and shouting hurray was also

done. I shouted this hurray with the whole of my heart.

Looking at the stage where all the officers were, was one of the

longest moments I have faced. My face was straight with no emotions. I

couldn’t smile, laugh or cry because no one knew what would happen

after our passing out from the camp. We were instructed to meet our

platoon officer for the collection of our PPA letter and for those that

didn’t receive theirs, it means their relocation worked. The atmosphere

was tensed as each Platoon officer shared the PPA letter. You would

have to fix you attention on what he was saying in other not to miss your

letter. We were given 21 days to report to our PPA and for those who

relocated, if he/she had not reported to his/her PPA the system would

automatically cancel the redeployment and bring you back to your

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deployed state of service. This was the moment of both joyful and

sorrowful tears. Nascent was jumping and smiling when his state code

was not called upon for his PPA letter. Joshua did same but was praising

and thanking God for answering his prayers. I was eating my plantain

chips looking at those who found love in camp. And who wanted their

relationship to work. Somewhere in pain as one of their partners was

redeployed to his/her state of relocation while the other would remain.

One person’s plan worked while some failed. As for me, I was just eager

to get dressed and drag my box from the hostel. And yes, my relocation

worked.

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HOME

Saying goodbye was a bit hard. In fact, it’s hard. I was fond of

Bola like a sister. Loved all the friends I made. I love the idea the

Federal Government imposed. Bringing unity between different tribes, to

stop the tribal clashed. NYSC is a scheme to brige the gap of division

amongst tribes in Nigeria bringing unity amongst tribe. It’s a beautiful

idea but at times lives are lost in the process of reaching the state of

deployment. I would definitely miss the beautiful and wonderful people

I met in camp. We may cross path with some while we may never see

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again till death. Everything that has a beginning has an end and right

now its time to say goodbye.

Putting on my blue ripped jeans and a singlet, I climbed the car

slated to transport us back to Jos, Plateau state. Tall Justin was at the

front seat, Ugo was by the right-hand side, I was in the middle while

Prosper was by the left and two girls seated at the back. Out of the six of

us that came to Cross River from Jos together, it was only Ugo and I that

was going back to Jos. Wale, Prince, Mike and Isaac remained back in

the state and was posted to different Local Government Areas. That’s the

painful part of NYSC. The separation it brings after one has gotten used

to each other. Buses to different states were all packed on the meditation

field. I went there to bid farewell. First, I met Seun and hugged him. I

will miss him deeply more than anyone in this camp except for Bola. His

relocation worked back to Ilorin. He was standing with his bag beside

the bus, waiting for it to be loaded. “Seun. I will miss you.” “Nah me

go miss you pass.” We hugged and I left. Moving to the next person

which was Dammi. She was answering a phone call so we where not

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able to talk we just hugged and signaled ourselves to phone each other.

Third person was Quan. We didn’t really say much because he was a bit

unstable. He lost some of his stuff and was going back to the hostel to

change his outfit due to the boiling heat. I was the one that encouraged

him to do so. He was putting on a purple cardigan and a blue jean,

topping it up with some easy wears. Fourth person was Isaac who

begged me to come back to Cross River and be with him. I was just

nodding my head. Even God knows I won’t even think of coming back.

He promised to call me every now and then. Before I left the meditation

ground, I met the officers by the gate to bid them farewell and seeking

permission to fall out.

I met Bola sitting close to a long bus and asked her when is her

bus moving. “Me I don’t know ooo. We are moving to Calabar to board

a plane back to Lagos. The driver is charging us 10k.” I laughed

“better you people. The one we saw back to Jos is charging us 25k. We

are looking for another bus like this. Only God knows what time we

will reach Jos” “Ehh better me ooo. I sha will be calling you. Hope

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you will come and see me in Lagos.” “I will try sha but only if you

book flight for me.” “This girl you’re not serious.” “Babe let me go

and say bye to my other friends. In case I don’t see you when I’m

back, I wish you well in life and especially your PPA.” “Better be

calling me this Security woman.” “ I have heard you Baby Bola.” We

left camp some minutes to 10am, waving other corp members as we left

the camp. I positioned my head on Ugo’s shoulder. Breathing a sigh of

relief, I closed my eyes. The first phase is over and we are approaching

the second phase which is the PPA. Anxiety gripped me just by thinking

about PPA and what would happen in the next 10months.

My mum kept calling as usual every 1-2 hours asking where I was.

at about 7pm we were at Akwanga approaching Jos. We stopped there to

grab something to eat. I bought rice and salad with fish. Was wanting to

get a soft drink but decided against it and went for bottle water. After

eating I opened my chewing gum I bought from camp and started to

chew. I did this so that I won’t fall asleep in the car. I have learnt my

lesson from the last journey when I took fearless energy drink.

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The cold breeze of Jos could be felt from the entrance of the State

and that’s one thing I love about the state. I searched for my white

sweater to put on due to the singlet I was putting on from camp was not

enough to shield me from the cold breeze. Jos is beautiful at night,

especially when the street lights are on and everyone has retired for the

evening. There was no cab to transport me home. My brother called and

asked how I would come home from park. I told him not to worry, I will

find a way. Ugo’s brothers and dad came to pick him from the park.

Before we reached, he informed his family to come pick us from the

park. They each came with a car. His brother helped put my box in the

boot of his car. And drove us to our various destinations.

I opened the gate and my mum came from the house to hug me,

my brother following suite. I hugged her like it’s the last day I would see

her. “My daughter welcome. Thank God for journey mercies.” My

brother helped me to drag my box into the house. I steeped in exactly

11pm. I was so tired and hungry. I made myself a bowl of golden morn

and changed into my nightwear. My mother was asking all sort of

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questions before my brother interrupted her. “This woman leave her

nah she just came back. Go and sleep, remember you have to wake up

early tomorrow to dress Amaka for school.” I swapped his left leg with

my hand “Ewu leave her alone, she just misses her daughter” my mum

continued “Ehh that’s true ooo. And its almost 12” I was just smiling

and taking my golden morn. “Let me allow you to sleep. You will gist

me tomorrow. Good night.” She stood up and left to her bedroom. My

brother then faced me, “ehh you, I hoped you went and found rich boy

to marry in that camp. If not, you will start going back like this.”

“Waka. That’s the only thing you know.” Laying down to sleep, some

camp activities flashed and I smiled. It truly was a wonderful lifetime

experience. I was happy my relocation back to Jos, Plateau State worked

because I can’t imagine myself in the rural parts of Cross River. But I

had a weird feeling.

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Corper we, corper wa.

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PART 2
“Mummy I'm going back to Calabar…….”

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