Are you a freshly minted graduate of a Nigerian university? Have you finally received the call-up letter to serve your fatherland? Are you experiencing mild-to-strong delulu while packing for camp because you think some items aren’t necessary?
If your answer is yes to all of the above, pay attention, or better still, grab a note and jot things down. We’ve compiled the ultimate list that’ll take your NYSC orientation camp experience from “God, abeg” to “Can we do this again?”
NYSC call-up letter
Image source: MySchoolGist
Make sure you carry along three to five copies of this — with the original. It’s the rite of passage at the orientation camp entrance.
School ID card
Don’t leave the house without your student identification card.
School documents
Make sure you come along with original and photocopied copies of your statement of result or degree certificate.
Clear file bag
Image source: Jumia
To keep your documents safe and secure.
Passport photograph
You’ll need a lot of these during the registration process in camp. Best to come with three to six copies.
Extra white shirts and shorts
Image source: X
White is the only acceptable colour in camp, and you only get two free shirts and shorts each. It’s best to go with extra pairs since you might not have time in between activities to do laundry.
Waist pouch
This is where you’ll keep important things like your phone, money, wallet, meal tickets, etc. It’s a 24/7 necessity as you’ll be outdoors most of the time, and it’s not advisable to leave any valuables in your room.
Sanitary pads/tampons
Image source: Brand Afric
Ladies, the mami market traders are out to get you with their outrageous prices, so you better come prepared.
Umbrella
Image source: UBuy Nigeria
See, the sun and NYSC have a mission to completely finish you. An umbrella is how you win this battle.
Toilet paper
The toilet is always a complete mess, even when it’s not dirty.
Toiletries
Make sure you come with your own bathing soap, sponge, body wash, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.
Plain white tennis shoes
Image source: X
This is your go-to footwear on the campground. Best to go with a rubber version that’s easier to maintain.
Handkerchiefs or face towels
To maintain your cool when the sun does a number on you.
Rubber slippers
For when your legs need to breathe.
Needle and thread
There’ll be many ripped trousers after the Man O’ War activity. Best to have this before the mami market tailor charges N2k for a small stitch.
Sunscreen
With all the outdoor activities, you want to make sure your skin is still skinning after three weeks.
Bucket
Image source: Nuesroom
Might sound unhinged, but you actually need your own bucket to fetch water in camp. You’ll get one from the traders at mami but at triple the price.
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Marker
Image source: Konga
It’ll be your best friend on camp. You’ll need it mark your territory on prized possessions like your NYSC kit, bucket and provisions.
Flashlight
Image source: Yaoota
Depending on your location, 24/7 power supply might be a thing or not. Best to keep a rechargeable flashlight close.
Mosquito net and repellent
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The mosquitoes in camp don’t smile, so go prepared. You came to serve your fatherland, not carry malaria on top your head.
Padlocks and keys
Image source: Wikepedia
Listen, petty thieves will be after your provisions, toiletries and other supplies. While this doesn’t guarantee 100% safety, it’s a start.
Power bank
Image source: Jumia
Because how else will you capture the once-in-a-lifetime experience if you’re dealing with battery issues? Charging in Mami is an expense that’ll do a number on your already slim allowance.
Provisions
Image source: Nairaland
Camp food may or may not wage a war against your taste buds. Best to have provisions you can fall back on, especially if you have no plans to make the mami traders ten times richer.
First-aid kit
Every NYSC camp has a health centre, but you might want to come with your little kit of basics like painkillers, plasters and methylated spirit. Or do you trust the government like that?