“My daughter told me that she enjoyed herself at the NYSC camp, though she said some people bullïed her. I told her ‘welcome to the real world where there is no protection and you have to do whatever it is that they are doing out there.” ~ Governor Seyi Makinde.

 

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has shared a personal anecdote about his daughter’s experience at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camp, highlighting a conversation they had about the challenges and life lessons she encountered during her service. In his remarks, Makinde noted that while his daughter enjoyed her time at the NYSC camp, she also faced instances of bullying, which led to a candid discussion between them about navigating such challenges.

“My daughter told me that she enjoyed herself at the NYSC camp, though she said some people bullied her. I told her ‘welcome to the real world where there is no protection and you have to do whatever it is that they are doing out there,’” Makinde said.

The NYSC, a mandatory program for Nigerian graduates, is designed to foster national integration and provide young Nigerians with opportunities for community service. It often involves a rigorous and sometimes challenging environment, where corps members are placed in various parts of the country to work in different sectors, including education, health, and agriculture.

“My daughter told me that she enjoyed herself at the NYSC camp, though she said some people bullïed her. I told her ‘welcome to the real world where there is no protection and you have to do whatever it is that they are doing out there.”

~ Governor Seyi Makinde. pic.twitter.com/nBYAGqk1Gf

— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) September 17, 2024

Makinde’s comments reflect a broader sentiment about the realities of adult life and the importance of resilience and adaptability. His advice to his daughter underscores the notion that real-world experiences often come with difficulties and that overcoming these challenges is a crucial part of personal growth and development.

The Governor’s reflections also highlight a common aspect of the NYSC experience—interpersonal challenges and the need to develop coping strategies. Bullying, while not universally experienced, can be a significant issue for some corps members, affecting their overall experience and well-being. It is a reminder of the importance of providing support systems and fostering a positive environment for young people undergoing their service.

By sharing this personal story, Makinde emphasizes the value of resilience and the need for young Nigerians to prepare for the complexities of adult life. His approach to addressing his daughter’s experience suggests a focus on equipping young people with the mental and emotional tools necessary to navigate various challenges they may encounter in their professional and personal lives.

The Governor’s experience and advice serve as a testament to the broader life lessons that the NYSC program aims to impart. While the program provides valuable skills and experiences, it also exposes corps members to real-world scenarios that require them to adapt and overcome obstacles.

Makinde’s candid remarks also open up a broader discussion about the support systems available to young people during their NYSC service and the need for continued efforts to ensure that all corps members have a positive and supportive experience. This includes addressing issues such as bullying, providing mental health support, and creating environments where young people can thrive despite challenges.

As the NYSC program continues to play a crucial role in shaping the lives of young Nigerians, the conversation around experiences like Makinde’s highlights the importance of acknowledging and addressing the various aspects of the service, both positive and challenging. The Governor’s approach to his daughter’s experience serves as a reminder of the need to prepare young people for the realities of life while also supporting them through their journey.