The moment I got to camp, the first thing they did was search my bags. Not a quick check, a proper, thorough search. They were looking out for anything they considered contraband and also checked any medication I brought along.

After that, I had to write my name and state code right at the gate. Then they handed me a tag and a sheet, then directed me to my hostel.

Because I came in early, I was lucky to get a decent bed space. If you show up late, you might not have that advantage.

Let me save you from a mistake I made. You don’t need five photocopies of your documents. I did that and regretted it. Two copies each is more than enough, and some documents only need one.

Once I got my bed space, I arranged my bunk and dropped my things before heading straight for medicals. That’s where they checked and cleared me as fit for camp.

From there, I moved to the next verification point. This was where I submitted my statement of result, school ID, and call-up letter. They confirmed I was actually a graduate before moving me forward.

The next stage was where I submitted my call-up letter again and did my first official thumbprint. That part felt important, like I was now fully in the system.

After that, I was issued my state code. At that point, I knew I was almost done. Fun fact, the last digit of your state code determines your platoon.

Next, I submitted my bank details for my allowance and moved to the bank stand to complete the setup.

Then came the paperwork. I had to fill my NYSC file, attach passport photographs, and sign multiple forms, including my swearing-in documents. Once I submitted everything and got cleared, that was it, registration complete.

After that, I collected my NYSC kits from my platoon officer and joined the platoon WhatsApp group.

I went back to the hostel, changed into my white-on-white, and that was the end of mufti for me. From that moment until the end of camp, it was full NYSC mode.

Before I could even settle in, the soldiers were already waiting. Training starts almost immediately, no time to adjust.

Your first day in camp will feel overwhelming, but once you understand the process, it becomes a lot easier to navigate.