Being a copper is the goal of every Nigerian student.
To some, going for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) sends a message to the village people that they're done with school while some see it as a means of giving back to the society. At some point, we all fall within this category
But was going for NYSC my goal?
That wasn't my goal because I didn't see any need for it as a student. Weird right? Yes.
Although as a serving copper now, I'm seeing reasons why the Nigerian government created this program for every graduate.
Immediately after graduation, my program requires a one year internship to help qualify me as a practicing nurse before youth service. My internship program was done at Rivers state University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH).
What Happened After Internship
Had so many plans after internship but being a copper was not part of it as I was seeing no need for it. Immediately after this internship, I became jobless and was job hunting.
Got some calls from a friend about job placement in a company and should send my CV( curriculum Vitae) to start the work immediately. Wow, I was very happy.
While sending my CV, she called and was like “Have you gone for service”, I replied “No”. That was the end of everything.
Few weeks later, a friend of mine called to say that my CV should be sent to her in a few minutes for a job placement. I was very happy about it but you know what? The NYSC discharge letter spoiled everything for me.
Second job opportunity is gone because of NYSC.
At this point, I was angry, had so many thoughts in my mind. Then I decided not to job hunt again but go for youth service.
Oh no, I have to go for service now. I became worried with the thought of coping with 33k Naira ($21) monthly as a copper in this country.
Should I go or keep looking for a job?.
This was all I could think of at that moment until I finally concluded to go for service.
Was I happy with that move? Can't give a proper answer.
Then I decided to take a bold step
July, 2024, I called my course mate who was also not eager to go for service so we could go for the registration. We encouraged ourselves and finally registered to join batch B2.
At this stage, preparation was on seriously with an open mind for anything that would come up. Informed my friends about my decision and how I have registered for youth service.
I just don't want to talk about the stress of registering for service. But just know it was never easy for me that day.
While waiting for the posting list, a friend called regarding a job and how urgent a nurse is needed at the firm.
I narrated my stories about job hunting and how I decided not to apply for any job again until after service. He said, "You don't need a NYSC discharge letter for this job and the pay is far better than the 33k I'm going to get from service.
Wow, it was tempting so I accepted the offer. Trust me, the job was a saving grace. Thanks to my friend for that golden opportunity. Yeah, I mean golden opportunity.
While on the job, the NYSC posting list came out and I was posted to Imo state. Can't imagine quitting a job I just started for NYSC so I hid it from my employer.
Although I told my family and friends about NYSC posting me to Imo state and they were all happy saying Imo state is closer.
Now the question “are you going to quit the job”?
Like you know, my reply was a big No.
However, after working with the firm for 3 months, the batch C1 posting list came out and I was posted to Enugu state.
The picture above was my first outing after the job. Yo trust me I enjoyed every bit of that job.
I became curious to know the relationship between me, NYSC and East. I told my employer about it and they advised me to go for service.
That was how I found myself in Awgu camp Enugu serving my mother land as a copper Nurse in the clinic. Although I was given the tag CNO(Chief Nursing Officer) of the clinic.
My stay in the camp was majorly in the clinic. I miss my team daily. No day passes by without me thinking about the Awgu camp clinic. Oh It was a memorable one.
How is Enugu treating me? Is the place cool for coppers? Am I enjoying my stay here?
Oh don't worry we gonna discuss that soon.Stay tuned.
Finally congratulations to myself and friends for obeying the clarion call.
Love you all❤️
Ps: These pictures are all from my phone gallery