Are you a prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, getting ready for your service year? Well, there are a few things you should know, especially if you’re heading to the northern parts of Nigeria. I had the chance to serve in Kaduna, and I’m here to share some insights with you!
- Chilly Northern Weather If you’re from the southern part of the country, brace yourself for a colder experience up north, especially during the Harmattan season. Even the orientation camp can get pretty chilly. Don’t forget to pack your sweaters and any gadgets that will help you stay warm.
- Prepare Your Documents Your first days at the orientation camp will involve lots of registrations and verifications. And guess what? There will be more registration tasks later on. To avoid any hassles, make sure you have all the necessary documents with you when you head to the orientation camp. While the list of required documents might vary, I can share what I needed for the Kaduna NYSC Orientation Camp.
- The Orientation Course The orientation course is a series of activities that you’ll be involved in. I’ve shared my personal experience in a previous article, which you can check out here: “What’s It Like at NYSC Orientation Camp?”.
- Security Matters Now, let’s talk about security. Some people tend to exaggerate security issues in certain parts of the North. I served in Southern Kaduna and can assure you that it wasn’t as bad as some may think.
- Religious Differences Religion plays a significant role in the North, unlike what you might be used to in places like Lagos. Keep in mind that tolerance for different religions might vary from what you’ve experienced in other areas.
In Conclusion
These are my insights and opinions based on my NYSC experience in the North. Remember, every individual’s experience might be different, but hopefully, my tips will help you better prepare for your service year. Enjoy your time during the NYSC program and make the most of your service year adventure!