As an orphan, my NYSC journey meant a lot to me. I was grateful for my aunt who supported me, and before my posting, I had already made up my mind that I wanted Ibadan. I felt it would be easier for me, closer to what I knew, and I had even gotten my medical report ready for relocation.

Then, three days before camp, I checked my call-up letter and saw Abuja.

I just stared at it for a while and asked myself, “Is this where God wants me to go?” I had never been to Abuja before. The only things I heard were that Abuja had opportunities, amazing people to meet, but also that surviving there was not easy because of how expensive life could be.

So I decided to accept it.

Getting to camp was another experience. Many people were surprised when they heard I got Abuja directly. Some even said it was rare because many people struggle to get that kind of posting. It made me feel like maybe there was a reason behind it.

But after the excitement of camp ended, reality came. While many corpers were going back home after the 21 days, I had to move straight to my PPA. I later stayed at the NCCF family house in Mararaba, and honestly, the adjustment was not easy. The lifestyle was different, there were rules, and I had to learn to adapt quickly.

One thing I’m grateful for was the connection I made during camp. Through the NCCF media group, I met someone who later became a big blessing to me. We were posted to the same organisation, though different units. When things became difficult, I reached out to him, and he allowed me to stay with him throughout my service year.

My Abuja story was not exactly how I imagined it. I thought coming to a big city meant everything would fall into place. I hoped for opportunities and even being retained after service, but that didn’t happen.

It hurt, but looking back, I understand that NYSC was more than getting a job opportunity. It was about growth, meeting people, becoming independent, and realizing I could survive outside my comfort zone.

Abuja did not give me everything I expected, but it gave me memories, friendships, and a str

onger version of myself.