This piece of writing is a documentary of activities engaged in by the Platoon 1 corps members, known as “The Premier Platoon.’’ This happened between 19th November to 9th December 2025 at the Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp in Nsit-Atai, Akwa-Ibom, Nigeria.
If you weren’t part of Platoon 1, batch C, 2025, at the orientation camp in Akwa-Ibom, then you really missed a lot. Our platoon was a definition of unity. With 178 members, we were there for each other and came out greatly to support ourselves in the various camp competitions.
Before the commencement of activities, there was already a wave of pressure on us, because we were the first platoon among nine others. As such, we couldn’t afford to disappoint our platoon officer and ourselves, too. And so we gingered ourselves to success.
Everything started with the registration process. No one wants to remember that stressful experience. You would stand in long queues, also sit in queues, and spend nothing less than four hours before completing registration. From the general registration down to platoon registration, it felt like a mental tug of war. Only the brave survived it, and yes, we survived.
The first time we met Our Platoon officer, Mr Anyom Joseph, was during the platoon registration. He was a light-skinned man who wore a pair of dark-framed glasses with an unreadable expression. Mr Joseph left us guessing whether he was approachable or not, and neither smiled nor frowned; he just had a neutral expression. Maybe he was tired from the day’s activities and decided to appear that way, or probably that’s how he was; very unpredictable.
Now and then, he stood up from his plastic chair to hand over NYSC materials to those who had finished registration. But as usual, many Nigerians are impatient, and while he still attended to people one after the other, unregistered members kept calling, “Sir. Sir. Sir.”
“Can’t you wait!? Where are you hurrying to?!” He would fire back. If we were to be in a secondary school or somewhere similar, he would have dealt mercilessly with one of us. Anyways, such experiences made us understand early that he was a ‘No-nonsense man’ and when he meant business, then business it was.
After the registration, we were assigned to our hostels, and we were ready for the camping life at Nsit-Atai, Akwa-Ibom.
💡Bonus Info: We have a dedicated NYSC Whatsapp group for 2026 Batch ‘A’ where we share timely updates. You might want to join so you don’t miss out.
The Morning Devotion at Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp
If you have ever attended a boarding school in Nigeria, the concept of the daily NYSC morning devotion by 5:00am, wouldn’t be hard for you to adapt to. By 4:50am, one of the military men would blow the bugle to remind us all that it was time to be active.
“Papapa, Papapa, Papa-rara-papapa!” This was how the lyrics from the bugle read. Whoever attended an NYSC camp would easily remember this sound. After a few minutes, the bugle would be accompanied by whistles from various directions signalling the arrival of various military officers ready to swallow us alive if we didn’t move our lazy muscles out of bed and down to the camp field. These officers were the true definition of DISCIPLINE. And from the way they behaved, you’d know that it was a reflection of several years of daily training.
Most times, the platoon boys argued that, if it wasn’t for the presence of the girls who always had one life problem or the other (in the form of aching stomach, menstrual cramps, headache, breathing problems, fragile bones, etc) at the Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp, the boys would have seen life squarely in the hands of these officers. So the boys were always grateful to the girls for having these life problems. However, the premier platoon girls were the strongest. While other girls were fainting under the hot sun, slumping here and there (due to health issues), our girls stood tall and strong, as rigid as the NYSC bye laws, and as solid as tubers of yams.
“Are you still walking?!!!!”
“My friend double up!!!!!”
This was a common phrase used by almost all military officers, and in response to the command ‘Double up!!”, we would all start running down to the field; otherwise, we would squat till our legs began pleading for mercy. Notably, the female officers were as disciplined as the males and preferred we call them ‘SIR’ during platoon parade drills at the field.
The field was an open space, surrounded by the pavilion, the volleyball court, the main gate, and one side of the camp’s perimeter walls. For the early morning assembly and devotion, we always stood according to our platoons and day by day, our unity strengthened. The early morning assembly consisted of a ‘Praise-and-worship’ session and a ‘Meditation’ session, each presented by a platoon representative. After that, we would sing the national anthem, the NYSC anthem; then recite the national pledge, and finally the national prayer, which happened to be the third stanza of the national anthem. It was followed by Man’O’ War drills (consisting of physical exercises), announcements and news from the prestigious OBS (Orientation Broadcasting Service)
The “Wake-up Nigeria” Ritual at NYSC Camp
By 6am, Nigeria would wake up. Yes, our dear country was treated like a beautiful woman who woke up every morning by 6am and slept by 6pm. In light to this, it was mandatory, as a sign of respect, for everyone on the campground to stand at attention whenever it was 6am and 6pm.
The sound of the bugle, followed by the slow mounting or dismounting of the flag, would take about 1-2 minutes and we would continue with our daily activities. For the first week, after the assembly, we would march straight to the other side of the field, where we awaited the military officers assigned to our platoon to drill us on parades.
The Morning Parade
Speaking about the parade, the military officers assigned to our platoon were one of the best things that happened to us. Sergeant Ibrahim and Sergeant Okon were their names; very professional, experienced, and easy-going. They never liked stress, and as such, we never gave them any. And so for the first five days in Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp, we marched from one place to another under the hot Akwa-Ibom sun, trying to perfect our steps so that we could win the inter-platoon match past competition.
“Turn to your right in threes! Right turn!”
“Retires-About-Turn!”
“Stand-attt-easeeee!”
Such commands from them always drove cold chills down our spine, and with such new things we learnt from their years of experience, we looked forward to marching every day. Later on, they selected a set of people who would represent us during the inter-platoon parade competition.
The Platoon Executives (Excos)
We also had platoon excos. For the premier platoon, we selected, as our leaders;
Paul for Platoon leader, Favour for Assistant Platoon Leader, Chiamaka for Treasurer, Samuel for Fin Sec, Dr. Sam for Provost/ Pro, and Pascal for Social Director
Right from day 1, we already knew who Paul was. Throughout the registration period, he was up and doing. At first, some of us thought he was a camp official or a staff member. He was a tall, overly light-skinned guy who always walked about, doing one thing or the other. He assisted us greatly during our platoon registration and eased the registration burden off our platoon officer. So, by emerging as president, it was obvious he deserved such.
However, due to his light complexion, we were always careful with him. He didn’t notice how we handled him with care, but we did; in fact, some of us called him ‘Sir White’. We were careful in all our dealings with him because his skin was fragile, as soft as cake.
Whenever he held the big ropes during the Man’O’War drills and almost hurt himself, or whenever he played soccer with the boys and nearly fell, we could only scream with fright and pray earnestly for his safety because any slight cut would leave a permanent scar on his cheek skin, and we didn’t want that for him. He worked closely with his other excos, and we can confidently say they did their best.
Despite how tasking it can be, to combine leadership responsibilities with normal camp activities, they did all they could to carry out their duties and to see to the unity and coordination of our platoon. The premier platoon. The one and only Platoon 1.
The NYSC Khaki Uniform
The Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp opened on a Wednesday (19th November), and by Friday, we had our swearing-in ceremony, where we were inducted as full corps members; no more prospects. We listened to the Akwa-Ibom State coordinator speak to us. His name, Mr Samuel Amaramiro Pepple, is a calm, reserved, and easy-going man. How will we ever forget his trade mark song, the one which was always played for him before commencing any of his speeches?
How can we forget Asake’s ‘Lonely at the Top’ favourite song of Mr Pepple, which he always danced melodiously to? In fact, if you ever wanted to win his heart, you just needed to be good at dancing. Certainly, we really enjoyed every bit of his performances, from his dancing moves to his impactful speeches.
Lectures and SAED at Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp
Before we arrived at the Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp, we had been hearing of SAED, and some of us got to know its full meaning while in the camp. SAED stands for ‘Skills Acquisition Entrepreneurship Development’ designed to impact corps members and help them acquire lifelong skills. By the second week, we began SAED lectures properly.
After the morning assembly, we would head down to the Pavilion for the first round of lectures which lasted for about 1 hour 30 minutes, sitting according to our platoons. That wasn’t even a problem; of course, we could adapt to ensure a one-hour lecture.
The challenge came whenever we arrived for the second round of lectures. These programs, though impactful, were long. And when we mean long, they were V-E-R-Y L-O-N-G. You couldn’t afford to skip breakfast while coming for the second round of lectures, or else, you’d have yourself to blame. So, by sitting for five hours (from 9am – 2pm) without a break, we learnt to be disciplined and long suffering, alongside battling with the intoxicating hands of sleep. Omo!! it was a hilarious scene.
You needed to see the different kinds of sleeping positions of people; indeed, it was a struggle to remain awake. One guy was heavily dozing in a chair, his mouth wide open, and someone placed a pen cap inside it. Another one fell asleep on a plastic chair till the chair broke and he landed on the floor. Indeed, the struggle was real.
📌 Bonus: Message on Whatsapp to process your medical fitness certificate. It is a compulsory requirement for camp registration.
Inter-Platoon Competitions at Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp
Life itself is full of competition. Without them, there would be no excitement, no drive, nothing to look forward to. People compete to make more money, to gain power, to win political positions, to become the best-selling brand. Our time in Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp wasn’t any different.
With ten platoons in the orientation camp, various competitive activities kept everyone on their toes. Football, volleyball, relay race, cultural dance, Mrs NYSC, Mr Macho; there was always something happening. For the entire three weeks, there was never a single idle day.
The Female Volleyball
We kick-started our series of competitions with female volleyball. It was a strong beginning for us. Through the determination and persistence of our female players (Doreen, Confidence, Joy, Theresa, Angela, Regina, Favour, Rejoice, Hekmot, Opeyemi, Rachael, Favour, Obianuju, and Onyinyechi), we secured our first victory by defeating Platoon 2 in the group stage. Although we eventually bowed out in the quarterfinals, we were proud of the fight our girls put up.
Debate Competition at Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp
We were represented by Nicholas and Gladys on the topic titled, “Al literacy, competences and problem solving: The essential capacity to become generational leaders.” Each team had five minutes to present their points. The contest was tight and intense. We fought hard and tried our best to deliver strong arguments, but it was a very competitive one, and we did not finish in the top three. Still, the experience was worthwhile and we never regretted participating in it.
Mr Macho and Miss NYSC
Our representatives were Uchenna and Favour. Uchenna stood tall and confident on stage, his posture as disciplined as someone used to drills. His muscles were well defined, his shoulders broad, his chest firm, and his arms looked trained from regular exercise, giving him an athletic and commanding presence.
Favour was equally striking, moving with effortless poise. Her smile was warm and genuine, her eyes bright and expressive, and she carried herself with a graceful confidence that made her stand out. Though neither of them placed in the top three, they both represented Premier Platoon 1 with style and heart.
Female Football at the Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp
Our girls really gave everything they had from the very first match. We opened the tournament against Platoon 8, and it was a tough game. Both sides pushed hard, but nobody managed to score. The match went straight to penalties, and sadly, we lost the shootout. The girls were heartbroken, but we encouraged them and reminded them that all hope wasn’t lost, since the best losers were still allowed to move on.
True enough, luck found us. We qualified for the next stage and headed straight into the quarterfinals against Platoon 7. That game was intense. Our girls were fierce, aggressive, and constantly on the attack, yet chance after chance slipped away; more than five clear opportunities were missed. Again, the match ended goalless. This time around, the penalties favoured us, and we won our way into the semifinals.
In the semifinals, we faced Platoon 5. It was another tight contest with no goals on either side. Just like before, everything came down to penalties, and once again our girls held their nerves. They won the shootout and pushed us into the finals.
The final brought us back to Platoon 8. The girls fought hard and tried to rewrite the outcome of the first match, but Platoon 8 found a single goal and held onto it. We lost 0–1, and you could see the disappointment on our players’ faces. Still, to us, they were heroes. They fought through every stage, survived so many penalty shootouts, and reached a level many people didn’t expect. Their achievement even helped soften the blow for the guys, whose own campaign ended much earlier.
Talents and Skills Showcase at Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp
The Premier Platoon was truly complete. There was no shortage of talent or skill among our members. During social events, our platoon was often in the spotlight, and one of the highlights was our very own “Mr P-Sax,” whose saxophone performances amazed everyone. His melodious tunes would capture the attention of the crowd, and we always found ourselves wishing he could play on endlessly. Moments like these showcased the special talents within our platoon and added a special energy to every occasion.
Drama Presentation
During our time in Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp, the drama presentation was titled “Unity in Diversity.” The premier platoon was proudly represented by our splendid actors and actresses who acted to represent the various tribes we have in Nigeria. Among these tribes were the Igbo, Ibibio, Hausa, Urhobo and Yoruba. Though the rehearsals were demanding and strenuous, they all paid out, because we emerged first out of the ten platoons. A victory well deserved.
Cultural Dance
During the Cultural dance competitions, our participants and dancers proudly represented the Ibibio culture. Our girls danced the Ibibio style with energy and skill. They moved together perfectly, wriggling their waists to the drum beats. In fact, they brought the dance to life, and their relentless effort helped us finish in fourth place.
Man O’War activities at Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp
On Monday, the 24th, we dressed up in our 7/7 uniforms for the Man O’War activities. The 7/7 means the full NYSC kahaki uniform (from the cap, jacket, and down to the jungle boots). This was another memorable part of the camp. One which will never be forgotten. Dressed in our uniforms, we gathered at the ‘Obstacle Zone’ and before we commenced, we sang and chanted songs. Old chanting songs of soldiers preparing to go to war. Mention them!!
(1) “Morale! High!, Morale! High!”
(2) “Nzogbu! Nzogbu! Enyimba! Enyimba!”
(3) “Na dem go run away!!!!”
(4) “Obi kererenke! Obi!”
The Man O’ War here in Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp was presided over by Mr Odoli E. Adolphus. And with such excitement and vigour, we commenced the drills after being instructed by Mr Odono Chukweubuka Victor.
At the obstacle zone, we were drilled on how to manoeuvre our way through the obstacles and we were also taught the life importance of these obstacles.
The Tyre Crawl
The Tyres sat low to the ground, dusty and cramped. Many hated this one because it required bending low and getting dirty. But as they crawled, the tyres taught a humbling truth: “Sometimes progress requires lowering yourself, adapting, and enduring discomfort.” Emerging on the other side always felt like a small rebirth.
The Cargo Net
The net stretched upward, unstable, shifting with every movement. It felt so unpredictable while we climbed it. The cargo net signified that Things won’t always be firm beneath you. Move anyway. Adjust. Trust your instincts. Reaching the top taught us courage in the face of uncertainty.
The Swinging Bridge
This was a bridge that moved under every step; sometimes gently, sometimes wildly. Crossing it created a strange mix of fear and thrill, yet the bridge signified that stability isn’t the absence of movement. It’s your ability to stay steady while the world shifts beneath you.”
The Rope Swing
This obstacle always drew the loudest laughter and the loudest screams. The rope swing carried a warm lesson: “Courage feels like chaos until your feet touch the solid ground on the other side.” In that brief moment of flight, many corps members discovered bravery they never knew they had.
Of course, all these weren’t smooth. A lot of people tore their trousers trying to get over obstacles, and one guy kept slipping and swinging wildly on the tension rope, landing on the ground again and again. We couldn’t stop laughing while cheering him on, and moments like that made the whole experience unforgettable.
Alongside the many activities, we also had student representatives for weekly rotational platoon duties. Some of us were selected for sanitation, taking responsibility for cleaning the surroundings and maintaining the camp environment. Others served as camp police, acting as security agents and positioning themselves at strategic points around the camp to assist with safety. A few platoon members worked in the kitchen, helping the staff with cooking and serving food to the corps members. Infact everyday came with new activities and responsibilities.
Mr and Miss Ankara Competition at Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp
The Premier Platoon was fully represented by Uchenna and Annastacia in the inter-platoon Mr and Miss Ankara competition. Their appearance was something else! Uchenna looked like he had just walked out of a fashion magazine, his muscles flexing in perfect harmony with the bright yellow Ankara outfit, while Annastacia could have stopped traffic with her elegance and the way she moved.
The Ankara materials which were carefully crafted by our camp tailors, seemed to glow under the sun, making them the stars of the show. Everyone’s heads turned, our jaws dropped, and some even swore they were seeing angels on the stage. We aimed for first place, and while we didn’t quite get it, finishing second still made the rest of us feel like we had won a national award for our unique style and swagger.
The Parade Competition
Our Parade representatives were resilient. They stood tall and marched as if nothing could stop them, even under the scorching Akwa-Ibom sun. They trained for several days without resting. With their straight faces one would readily conclude that they the had the capacity to save Nigeria from its high rising insecurity.
By the end of the day, the parade team did exceptionally well. Even though we didn’t end up as first three, at least we didn’t finish last like one of the platoons which was given a very big kitchen spoon, as a symbol for finishing last. Through these, we had this conviction: ‘platoon 1 no dey ever carry last’
The Carnival at Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp
This was the final and biggest event of the camp. A spectacular cultural day in which the Premier Platoon brought the Ibibio culture to life like never before. From the decorations to the music, everything reflected our rich traditions. On that day, we provided our own food and refreshments, turning the atmosphere and post-programme into a joyous feast filled with laughter, music, and the smell of delicious meals.
When it was time to dance, we moved as one, coordinating ours step and every sway of our bodies to the rhythms of the drums. The crowd watched in awe as our ever agile female dancers performed with energy, style, and precision, making it impossible to look away. The colors of our outfits, the stylish ibibio wrappers, and the way we carried ourselves made it feel like the entire Ibibio culture had come to life right in the middle of the Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp.
Our efforts paid off handsomely as Platoon 1 emerged first in the ‘Best Dressed Cultural King’ category, third best cultural queen category, second place in the ‘Cultural Design Layout category’ and the overall best cultural group among the ten platoons. It was a day full of happiness, excitement, and pride; a perfect way to close an unforgettable three weeks at camp. Our platoon officer, Mr Joseph, couldn’t help but grin continuously with joy.
Summary of Platoon 1 Achievements at the Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp
This is the summary of our achievements in the various competitions:
- Drama Presentation: First Position
- Catering/Kitchen Duties: First Position
- Cultural King
- Female Football: Second Position
- Cultural Setting/Layout: Second Position
- Cultural Queen: Second Position
- Mr and Miss Ankara: Second Position
- Female Volleyball: Quarterfinals
In the end, Platoon 1, the Premier Platoon, was not just about the competitions or the victories. It was about the bond we built from the first day we met in Akwa-Ibom NYSC Camp. The way we laughed together, struggled together, encouraged one another and somehow became a family without even planning to.
It showed in the small moments. Sharing food. Helping each other during drills. Sitting together during socials. Supporting one another on good days and tough days. Those simple memories are the ones that stay in the heart.
Platoon 1 became more than a team. It became a home for three weeks, a place where unity and love were real. These memories will remain with us till eternity.
Expressing our sympathies
We commiserate with the family of our platoon member, Ukpai Rose Blessing who lost her elder bother to the cold hands of death, while still in the orientation camp. With total submission to the will of the almighty, we pray that He will console rise and her family, and strengthen them during this period of a painful loss.
We also extend our deepest sympathies to one of us; Ezimara Angela, an active representative in football and volleyball, who fell victim to a road accident while on a trip back home. While the Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp was ongoing, she exited camp due to health reasons and unfortunately, had an accident while retuning home, despite her ill nature. We thank God for sparing her life and pray against all these mishaps in future.
The Leadership Heirarchy
- Platoon Officer (Mr. Anyom Joseph)
- Platoon Leader (Paul)
- Assistant Platoon Leader (Favour)
- Treasurer (Chiamaka Ugwu)
- Financial Secretary (Onunka Samuel C)
- Provost/ Pro (Dr. Samuel Rajunor Sunday
- Social Director (Paschal)
The Female Football Team
Coach – Mendez
- Lamidi Toyosi Ayomide
- Ogunseye Ruth Damilola
- Oguine Chiamaka Janeth
- Kikile-Faith Goodness Fiemeya
- Okafor Doreen uchechi
- Eleyi Irene
- Ekuli Therese Enu
- Kalu Chidindu.v
- Odofin Adeyinka Grace
- Akindolire Abimbola Rhoda
- Osuoha Favour Mmesoma
- Salami Oyetolani Adijat
- Egrinya Favour Owere
- Hyacinth Nkechinyere Maryann
The Male Football Team
Coach – Shittu Ridwan
- Uchenna David Chinenye
- Otuonye Philip
- Oluwapelumi Victor
- Macaulay Richard Chimeremeze
- Samuel David Chigozirim
- Ayeni Samuel
- Franiel Daniel. T
- Kamonudeen Fawaz Adekunle
- Agwur Dien Dien
- Adekola Kingsley Adedotun
- Ogunji Nicholas Onyechinegbughi
- Abdulwasiu Mubarak
- Adegbite Vincent
- John Kennedy
- Obukwu Ebenezer
- Yusuf Abdullah
Female Volleyball Team
- Okafor Doreen
- Benamaisa confidence
- Oyelami Joy
- Ekuli Theresea
- Ezimara Angela
- Wilson Regina
- Adiele Favour
- Benjamin Rejoice
- Adegbayi Hekmot
- Afolabi Opeyemi
- Adams Rachael
- Favour Osuoha
- Nwafor C. Obianuju
- Omeje Onyinyechi
Debate Team
- Nicholas Ogunji
- Gladys Okorie
Cultural Dance
- Chaimaka Ugwu
- Benjamin Ntenuoyuk
- T. Olaitan
- Emenuga Chizoba. A
- Sola-Akande Olarinsola
- Mary Effiong Asuguo
- Noah, Alice Akpan
- Sheyi Zaccheus
Mr Macho
Uchenna David Chinenye
Miss NYSC
Osuoha Favour Mmesoma
Parade Group
- Akolokwu Preicous. C
- Mary Effiong Asuguo
- Noah, Alice Akpan
- Sheyi Zaccheus
- Nyiedah Caleb
- Adetomiwa Ayomide
Social Committee
- Nwokeoma Pascal
- Enwereji Treasure
Miss Bold and Beautiful
Anita Eze
Mr Handsome
Iyeke Virtue
Singing group
- Mbagwu Anthony Chima
- Chiamaka Ugwu
- Ojumu Seun Doris
- Rebecca Oluwaseum
- Nicholas Ogunji
- Oluwakemi Marvellous
- Kikile Goodness
- Okafor Doreen
- Nwabueze Annastacia. C
- Direh David
- Odoh Charles
- Benamaisia Confidence Tokoni
This Akwa-Ibom NYSC camp documentary was written by Nicholas Onyechinegbughi Ogunji.
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