Introduction
What if I told you that the hardest challenge you face today could become the source of your greatest growth tomorrow? It sounds hard to believe, doesn’t it? But that’s exactly what happened to me during my NYSC year. From the moment I found out I was posted to Kebbi, I was overwhelmed with fear, doubt, and uncertainty. I had never traveled far from home, and now, I was heading to a completely different part of Nigeria. Yet, through every struggle, I learned a powerful truth — our greatest transformations come from embracing discomfort.
I’m Christianah Odupitan, a graduate of the University of Ibadan. Just like many young people, I had been looking forward to my NYSC year, excited about the chance to serve my country and make an impact. But life, as it often does, threw me a curveball. Three days before my convocation, I lost my dear friend. I was heartbroken, and the grief was unbearable. But, in the midst of it all, I registered for NYSC, not knowing what lay ahead. What followed was a journey that would completely change my perspective on life, on Nigeria, and on what it truly means to serve.
The Unexpected Journey to Kebbi: A Test of Resilience
I had never traveled that far before. From Ibadan to Kebbi, the journey took two grueling days. The roads were rough, the news around me was unsettling, and I couldn’t shake the feeling of insecurity. Every mile felt like a test. I wondered, “Why is this so difficult? Why am I so far from home?” The journey left me physically drained and mentally exhausted, but little did I know, it was all a part of the lesson I was about to learn.
I arrived in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, and the first thing that hit me was the contrast. The cold air that greeted me was dry, and people wore nose masks to protect themselves from the harsh conditions. I had never felt weather like this. The cold was so intense that it caused people to suffer from nosebleeds and sore throats. But in the face of it all, I knew I couldn’t back down. I had come this far, and there was no turning back.
Adapting to the Extremes: Weather, Culture, and Life
When I arrived at the NYSC camp, the conditions were far from ideal. The camp was located in an area where the cold weather lasted from November to February, and the dry air made everything harder. But I quickly learned that discomfort is just a temporary feeling. The heat of the day, the cold of the night — these were not obstacles, but invitations to grow stronger.
During those three weeks in camp, we did everything outdoors. We woke up to devotion in the freezing cold and did our parades under the scorching sun. At first, it was unbearable. The combination of freezing mornings and scorching afternoons left me questioning my decision. But then I realized something important — growth happens when we push through our discomfort. Each day, I chose to show up, even when I felt exhausted, even when it seemed unfair. I learned that endurance isn’t just about physical strength, but about mental resilience.
Kebbi: A Different World, A New Perspective
After camp, my experience in Kebbi continued to challenge me in ways I had never imagined. The people of Kebbi are strong, resilient, and deeply rooted in their culture. The state is predominantly Muslim, and their commitment to prayer five times a day is something that shapes their daily life. As someone from Ibadan, where life is faster-paced and less centered around religion, I had to adjust to a slower, more reflective rhythm.
In Kebbi, you would never find a shop open during prayer times, unless the owner was a Christian. The language barrier was also a challenge, as they speak a different form of Hausa. At first, I struggled to understand, but instead of avoiding it, I dove in. I asked questions, made an effort to learn, and gradually, I started connecting with the people in a way I never thought possible. The more I embraced the differences, the more I found myself adapting to the environment.
I also found myself hesitant to try local foods. As a Yoruba girl, I love pepper in my food, but the local dish, Masa, lacked the spice I craved. At first, I didn’t like it, but with time, I learned to appreciate it for what it was — a simple dish made with care. This taught me an important lesson: sometimes, growth comes from embracing what feels unfamiliar.
The Extreme Weather: A True Test of Endurance
Kebbi’s weather wasn’t just a challenge — it was an experience in itself. The cold season, from November to February, was unbearable at times. I had to boil water just to stay warm, and even then, the cold air was relentless. The hot season, from March to July, was like nothing I had ever experienced. The heat was so intense that it felt as though the sun could burn the skin off your body. The temperature often reached 44°C, and it was hard to sleep at night.
But here’s the thing — life in Kebbi taught me how to endure. The harsh weather was not something to fear, but something to overcome. It was a reminder that no matter how uncomfortable or extreme the conditions are, you can survive if you refuse to give up.
NYSC: A Journey of Personal Growth and Service
Despite all the hardships, my NYSC year was beautiful. I didn’t just serve my country; I served myself. I discovered talents I didn’t know I had. I participated in the singing competition during camp, served as a room leader, and represented my platoon in a debate. When I was later selected to be part of the Digital Literacy for All CDS group, I was both excited and overwhelmed. But through the challenges, I learned the value of consistency, leadership, and dedication.
At my Place of Primary Assignment, I taught JSS2 students with all my heart. At first, I doubted my ability to teach, but as I stood in front of the class, I realized something powerful — sometimes, the greatest growth happens when we challenge ourselves.
One of the most memorable moments of my service year was when I performed a spoken word at the end of my service. I almost backed out several times, but my friends encouraged me to go for it. And when I finally stepped on that stage, I realized the power of boldness. It was one of the proudest moments of my life.
The Life-Changing Lessons of NYSC
Looking back, my service year in Kebbi was a journey that stretched me in ways I never imagined. I learned that endurance, adaptability, and openness are the keys to transformation. The challenges I faced were not obstacles; they were lessons. The discomfort wasn’t a roadblock; it was a stepping stone.
And so, as I reflect on my time in Kebbi, I realize that this journey wasn’t just about fulfilling an obligation. It was about embracing the unknown, stepping out of my comfort zone, and discovering my strength. Would I choose Kebbi again? Yes, without hesitation. Every challenge, every hardship, every moment of doubt was worth it. It made me who I am today.
How to Make the Most of Your Service Year
If you’re about to embark on your own NYSC journey, here are some lessons I learned that might help:
- Prepare your mind. Be ready for anything. Your posting may not be what you expect, but be open to the experience.
- Pack wisely. Make sure you pack according to your posting location’s weather and culture.
- Embrace the differences. Be open to learning from others, whether it’s about food, language, or culture.
- Stay grounded in your beliefs. Respect others, but don’t lose sight of who you are.
- Keep an open mind about camp. It might be tough, but it’s also a chance to make great memories and friendships.
- Don’t let fear stop you. If you’re called to serve, go with confidence. The journey is worth it.
Final Thoughts
Serving in Kebbi wasn’t easy, but it was the best decision I could have made. The challenges taught me resilience, the people taught me compassion, and the experience taught me that growth comes from embracing discomfort.
So, if you’re stepping into your service year or facing a difficult journey, know this: it’s not the struggle that defines you, it’s how you face it. Embrace every moment. Learn from every experience. And when you look back, you’ll see that the challenges you faced were the stepping stones that shaped you into something greater.