FOLLOW FRIENDS WITH VISION, NOT JUST VIBES

FOLLOW FRIENDS WITH VISION, NOT JUST VIBES

Don’t Play Away Your Destiny During Service Year

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is more than just a one-year program. For many young Nigerians, it is a pivotal moment—a transition from the classroom into the real world. Sadly, many waste this golden opportunity chasing shadows, following vibes, and ignoring value.

The Illusion of Group Progress

During NYSC, it’s common to make new friends people from different backgrounds, cultures, and states. This mix creates a fresh environment where everyone seems to be enjoying the same ride. You go to CDS together, wear the same khaki, take selfies at SAED programs, and share late-night gist in the lodge.

But here’s the bitter truth: you may be on the same journey, but you’re not headed to the same destination.

Some friends you’re following blindly are silently building their future:

• They’re learning digital skills
• Applying for scholarships
• Taking online courses
• Saving money for a business
• Volunteering to gain work experience
• Expanding their network beyond fun

While others are spending most of their time on:

• Parties
• Gossip
• Pointless trends
• Watching movies and scrolling endlessly on social media
• Sleeping through opportunities that knock quietly

POP: The Turning Point

Then the big day comes POP (Passing Out Parade). Everyone collects their certificate, takes beautiful pictures, and says emotional goodbyes.
But reality doesn’t care about emotions.

One person returns home with a plan, skills, and perhaps even a job waiting.
Another returns confused, asking “What next?” because they spent the whole year copying people without understanding what those people were really doing.

After NYSC, Life Truly Begins

Life after NYSC separates the prepared from the careless. Those who used the year to build capacity start to see results. They face fewer struggles because they’ve laid a foundation.
Those who played away their time begin to panic, blame the government, their background, and even the same friends they were following blindly.

It Doesn’t Have to Be This Way

The good news is you still have time. Whether you’re currently serving or about to begin, use the NYSC year wisely. Here’s how:

• Learn a digital skill (graphic design, coding, digital marketing, etc.)
• Take free or paid online courses on platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, or even YouTube.
• Network intentionally with people who can help you grow, not just those who entertain you.
• Volunteer or intern in places that add to your CV.
• Save and plan even if it’s little by little.

Conclusion: Choose Value Over Vibes

NYSC is not a vacation; it’s an opportunity for transformation.
Don’t waste it chasing temporary thrills while others are securing their future in silence.

Don’t play away your destiny during service year.
Build it. Guard it. Grow it. So that when you remove that khaki, you step into life not confusion.