The NYSC Orientation Camp – 7 things to expect in the NYSC Camp and ways to survive them

The orientation camp is a highly anticipated experience for most young Nigerian graduates due to the enjoyable activities like sports, fun, and educational programs that take place there. Batch B Stream 1 is almost concluded, and Stream 2 is scheduled to begin in August.

It is principal to recognize that there can also be challenges and difficulties alongside the fun, especially if you are posted to an unfamiliar location. However, as a young individual serving their country, it is essential to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally to adapt to any situation you may encounter during your service.

With that in mind, we will discuss what you should expect as a corps member in the orientation camp. Being aware of these aspects will reduce the likelihood of being caught off guard by surprises. So, take a moment to relax and have a drink as we embark on this journey of information.

1. You Will Be Thoroughly Checked

   Upon entering the orientation camp, you will undergo rigorous scrutiny. This process will be as meticulous as a fowl searching for something unfamiliar in the ground.

   It is good to understand that this action is taken to ensure the safety of all individuals within the camp and to prevent the presence of any prohibited items. So, while it might be inconvenient, it is carried out with good intentions.

2. Registration

   This marks the commencement of your journey from a prospective corps member to a full-fledged corper. Keep in mind that no worthwhile journey comes without struggle. As you will find yourself waiting in long queues.

   Consider this just the beginning of the stresses you may encounter at the camp, as there will be more to come. Once you complete the registration process, you will receive a mattress and an NYSC kit, which includes 2 loose-fitted white T-shirts, 2 pairs of white shorts, One NYSC crested vest, a set of NYSC khaki clothing (jacket, belt, and trousers), a crested NYSC cap, a pair of Jungle boots, and a pair of NYSC white shoes.

3. Waking up early

   I detest this aspect, waking up early, which I find terrible! However, my buddies who experienced boarding school will likely handle this demand better.

   You will be required to wake up at 4:00 am and assemble at the parade ground by 4:30 am. At this point, battle to eliminate any lingering sleepiness, for failure to wake up early may lead to repercussions from the Army personnel at the camp.

4. Parade/activities

   As previously mentioned, you will begin your day with an early wake-up call for parade at 4:30 am. The activities at the parade ground include prayers, marching, and parade chants.

   At 7 am, breakfast will be served, followed by fitness and skill acquisition entrepreneurship programs (SAED) later in the morning.

   After the program, you will have lunch and designated rest time before another evening parade and dinner. This daily routine will continue until the end of your time at the orientation camp.

5. Casual clothing is strictly not allowed

   To all the fashion enthusiasts and style-savvy individuals who cannot go a moment without dressing up, I wonder how you will adapt in camp where casual clothing is not permitted. You will have to manage the clothing items provided to you after registration, as there won’t be an option for personal outfits.

6. You will Not Be Fed Meals Of Your Choice

   If you have specific dietary preferences, perhaps considering marriage and pregnancy or obtaining an exemption letter might be options to avoid going to camp. E.g, if you are an Easterner posted to Northern or Western states, you may encounter various meals that you are not familiar with or may find unappealing.

   This can be a significant challenge for corps members during their time in camp. However, do not worry, as I was only joking in the first line, and there are other ways to address this situation.

7. Competitions

   Certain individuals naturally fear competition. However, I view this aspect positively, as it presents an opportunity for everyone in various platoons to participate in competitions and break free from the grip of fear.

What to do and how to survive in Camp

• Prior to heading to the camp, it is essential to inquire about the items you should bring along and those you must leave behind.Carrying certain items, such as a knife, to the gate can lead to embarrassment and discomfort, even if you had no intention of using it for harm.

  Therefore, being well-informed about the allowed and prohibited items will help you avoid such situations.

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• Ensure you have the following documents with you: your student ID card (original and photocopies), statement of results from your school (original and six photocopies), NYSC Call-up letter (original and six photocopies), recent passport photograph, and a compulsory medical certificate from a government or military hospital indicating your health status.It is important to verify if the date of graduation on your result matches the one in the senate list/dashboard/call-up letter. Any discrepancies should be promptly corrected to avoid the risk of being expelled from the camp abruptly.

  If you are denied entry into the camp, you will be required to bear the cost of returning to your place of origin, which can be particularly burdensome if you have already embarked on a long journey, such as a three-day trip. Hence, it is vital not to make this mistake.

• Camp toilets are often in a chaotic state due to the limited number of facilities assigned to a large number of people. To avoid the inconvenience of using dirty toilets, you can alleviate the stress by waking up around 3:30 am to utilize the facilities when they are relatively clean.Also, waking up late might result in crowded bathrooms, which could lead to the necessity of bathing outside. This situation can also be avoided by waking up early enough to secure a more convenient bathing time.
• For my friends who are quite selective about their food, I suggest bringing enough money. If you find the camp’s meals unsatisfactory, you can visit the mammy market and purchase better food since that’s the only alternative available to you.
• The clothing you’ll receive in the camp will be identical to everyone else’s. It’s recommended that you mark your clothing items with some form of identification to distinguish them.In case there’s an accidental exchange, having your belongings labelled will help you identify them quickly. Remember, you won’t be permitted to bring any other clothing into the camp.
• The SAED lectures often take a considerable amount of time. Arriving early at the lecture hall will help you secure a seat where you can actively listen, learn, and avoid sitting outside and dozing off.
• Embrace openness with others, as private rooms will not be provided, and everyone will have to share accommodations. Learning to be tolerant will be essential for your three-week stay.