My NYSC Journey to Bauchi: From Disappointment to Discovery – Part 1

Gospel Essien, Serving Corps Member, Narrates NYSC Experience in Bauchi State

Gospel Essien

The Call-Up Number That Changed Everything

I can still remember the moment I saw my National Youth Service (NYSC) call-up number and discovered that I had been posted to Bauchi State. Honestly, my spirit went from 100 to zero.

One moment, I was looking forward to beginning a new chapter of my life as a National Youth Service Corps member. The next moment, all my excitement disappeared. I was angry, disappointed, and deeply unhappy.

Of all the places NYSC could post me to, why Bauchi? That was the question that kept running through my mind.

 I could not understand why I had been posted to a place I had never planned to go to. My heart was heavy, and I began to question the whole situation. At some point, I seriously considered forfeiting my call-up letter. I thought about giving up on the entire journey before it even began.

The thought of travelling to a place I knew so little about was overwhelming. But somewhere in the middle of my disappointment, I made a decision. I decided to trust God. Instead of allowing my fears and disappointment to make the final decision for me, I chose to give the journey a chance. I did not know what awaited me in Bauchi, but I decided to take that step of faith.

Looking back, I realise that sometimes life takes us to places we never planned to visit, not because we understand the reason immediately, but because there may be lessons waiting for us there. And so, my NYSC journey began.

My Journey to Bauchi

Confusion, Stress, and Determination. Deciding to go to Bauchi was one thing; figuring out how to get there was another. Before that time, I had no clear idea of where to find a vehicle that would take me to Bauchi. I started asking questions, hoping someone would give me a simple and reliable direction. Unfortunately, the more people I asked, the more confused I became. Everyone seemed to have a different direction to give. One person would tell me to go to a particular park, while another would suggest somewhere else. Instead of getting the clear information I needed, I found myself becoming even more confused. At some point, I had to make a decision based on the directions I had received. I decided to try one of the motor parks someone had recommended. That was how I began the journey.

The journey from my location to Bauchi was not easy. It came with its own stress, uncertainty, and exhaustion. Travelling to a place you barely know, especially when you are still trying to figure out your way around, can be overwhelming. Nevertheless, I kept going. Finally, I arrived at Wailo Orientation Camp at about 10 p.m. By that time, I was completely exhausted. I was tired, worn out, and physically drained. All I wanted was to settle down and get some rest after the stressful journey. But arriving at camp did not mean the difficult part was over. In fact, another phase of the journey was just beginning.