NYSC Camp: From Home to ‘Government Pikin’
By Haroon Aremu
Upon arrival at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp, I suddenly became nostalgic as the affection for my family and relatives left behind kept clouding my soul.
Without wasting time, we unloaded our belongings at the gate and the security personnel including soldiers approached us and ran safety checks on the luggage as usual.
Furthermore, the security forces inquired whether we had in our possession, sharp objects like knives, glass cups bottles etc. However, these precautionary measures are very essential for maintaining security and preventing any potential conflicts because some people might be aggressive in bringing out such objects to harm other parties upon the slightest provocation.
Inside the camp, the atmosphere was vibrant with the sounds of the band and the sight of fellow corps members practicing their drills on the parade ground. Despite missing some initial excitement due to late arrival, I could not help but feel a sense of familiarity among us, a part of what the National Youth Service Scheme preaches, peaceful coexistence, and living as one Nigeria, in respective of tribal, geographical or religious affiliations.
The soldiers were very professional and disciplined in discharging their functions within the environment and, as such added a touch of humor to the camp experience with their jovial demeanor and witty remarks. Their chants and songs echoed throughout the camp, creating a lively atmosphere.
One particular tradition stood out – as we we are referred to as “government property” and “Government Pikin,” colloquial term for a child of government. So we are now under the care of the government not parents or guardians during the service year.
This sense of ownership was both symbolic and endearing, highlighting the unique bond formed during our time at camp.
Someone claims that a ‘Government Pikin’ is above the law and cannot be arrested or prosecuted for any wrongdoing. While I found this claim amusing and enjoyed the fantasy of being considered innocent like a baby, I didn’t bother to verify its accuracy.
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I think all this made us all realize that this is not our parent’s house where anyone can do anything he likes. The discipline there was uniform and there was a routine schedule being followed for every activity in camp. This is a lesson that we should all bear in mind to have a list of schedules that one must follow judiciously no matter what as the NYSC anthem states and I am quoting some part, “Let us build our nation high, under the sun or in the rain with dedication and selflessness……..”
Amidst the laughter and camaraderie, the importance of security consciousness remained paramount. From morning devotion to camp registration, every activity was conducted with precision and discipline, instilling a sense of responsibility among us.
The government’s commitment to our welfare was evident in the provision of meals and facilities, although there were opportunities for improvement, particularly in infrastructural maintenance and facility upgrades.
Through the NYSC scheme, we not only serve our nation but also cultivate a deeper understanding of security consciousness which I believe is part of discipline and alertness. By embracing this experience, we not only become certified government property but also contribute to the collective goal of building a safer and more secure nation.
The government might have its responsibility in creating more facilities to ensure the welfare of corp members within and outside the camp, but the officials and corp members need to also have the maintenance culture of the amenities. The stakeholders can do a community development service by providing more amenities across the camps to enhance the living conditions of every prospective corps member while staying.
In the NYSC journey, every step taken is a testament to our commitment to security consciousness and national service.
No doubt, this experience continued to resonate in my mind and always reminded me about the vision of the NYSC scheme to foster unity and national cohesion among the citizens.
As I left the NYSC camp, I wondered if, as a ‘Government Pikin’ I could get away with wrongdoing or be celebrated for it. God save us, for as law-abiding and obedient citizens, we will strive to serve our country with all our might, dedicated to peace, unity, and progress.
*Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a youth Corp Member with PRNigeria center, Abuja and wrote in via [email protected]*
