How NYSC Helped Me Overcome Culture Shock – Soludo

Speaking during an official engagement with corps members, Governor Soludo recalled his service year as a defining moment in his life. According to him, the NYSC programme exposed him to new cultures, traditions, and lifestyles that were initially strange but later became an opportunity for growth and adaptation.

When I was posted for my NYSC, I experienced what many call ‘culture shock.’ Suddenly, I had to live among people who spoke a different language, ate different meals, and practiced customs that were new to me. At first, it was uncomfortable, but gradually, I learned to adapt. That experience changed my worldview and made me appreciate the unity in diversity that Nigeria represents, he said.

He emphasized that the scheme remains one of the most impactful initiatives in Nigeria’s history, as it fosters unity among young people from different ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds.

Governor Soludo reassured corps members serving in Anambra State that their safety and welfare remain a top priority for his administration. He acknowledged the concerns of parents and guardians who often worry about the security of their children during their service year, stressing that his government has put structures in place to guarantee peace and protection for all corps members in the state.

Corps members are a vital part of Anambra’s development efforts. You contribute in education, healthcare, community service, and other critical areas. Be rest assured that your safety is our concern. We will continue to work closely with security agencies and community leaders to provide a secure environment for you, he noted.

The NYSC scheme, established in 1973, was designed to promote unity and integration in Nigeria after the civil war. By mandating graduates to serve in states outside their regions of origin, the programme exposes young Nigerians to different cultures, encouraging tolerance, cooperation, and national development.

Governor Soludo pointed out that his personal journey is proof of the scheme’s relevance. He explained that without NYSC, many Nigerians would remain isolated within their ethnic enclaves, never truly experiencing the richness of the nation’s diversity.

NYSC is more than just one year of service. It is a national project that builds bridges across our divides. The friends we make, the families we meet, and the communities we serve shape our outlook and help us see Nigeria as one entity, he added.

Over the years, corps members have played a significant role in Anambra’s development. Many schools, especially in rural areas, rely on the service of young graduates to fill teaching gaps. In the health sector, corps doctors and medical practitioners often extend care to communities that would otherwise be underserved.

Governor Soludo praised these contributions, describing corps members as silent heroes of development whose impact often goes unnoticed. He assured that his administration would continue to partner with the NYSC to create opportunities for corps members to contribute meaningfully during their service year.

While commending the vision of the founding fathers of the NYSC, Governor Soludo also called for reforms to strengthen the scheme in the face of modern challenges. He noted that issues such as insecurity, unemployment, and inadequate funding have affected the effectiveness of the programme.

He urged the Federal Government to invest more in the scheme, provide better incentives for corps members, and expand opportunities for post-service employment and entrepreneurship.

We must not allow NYSC to lose its original purpose. With proper reforms, it can become even more relevant in today’s Nigeria, providing young people with the skills, exposure, and resilience needed to thrive, Soludo stated.

In response, several corps members expressed gratitude for the Governor’s reassurance and encouragement. Some noted that hearing about his personal experience gave them hope that their own service year could also be a stepping stone to future success.

A corps member, Joy, said: It is inspiring to hear the Governor share his own NYSC story. It makes us feel connected and reassured that this experience, no matter how difficult, can shape our lives positively.

Another corps member, Uchenna, added: We are happy to know that the state government values us and is committed to our safety. It makes us more motivated to give our best during our service year

The words of Governor Chukwuma Soludo have not only shed light on the importance of NYSC in shaping young Nigerians but also reignited conversations about the role of the scheme in national integration. His story of overcoming culture shock through the programme serves as a reminder that beyond service, NYSC is an avenue for building resilience, fostering unity, and shaping leaders of tomorrow.

For corps members currently serving across Nigeria, Soludo’s experience is both a reassurance and a challenge—to embrace the discomfort, learn from new environments, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of their host communities.