Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, shared a personal story about his daughter’s experience during her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) service, shedding light on the challenges faced by youth corps members. Addressing the passing-out ceremony at the Lagos Orientation Camp on Tuesday, Makinde revealed how his daughter dealt with being bullied during her service.
The governor, reflecting on his own NYSC journey 34 years ago, expressed pride in addressing the young graduates. “I did this exactly 34 years ago when some of you were not yet born,” he said. “You are starting a journey that will take some of you to the peak of your ambitions. 34 years ago, I wouldn’t have thought I’d become a governor in Nigeria, so we have future governors and presidents here.”
In a touching anecdote, Governor Makinde mentioned that his daughter was among the NYSC participants. “This means some of us as your leaders are also human. We go through what you go through, and we understand the challenges,” he said.
Makinde humorously shared how his daughter initially planned to stay at the camp for just one night, but her stay was extended to three weeks. She enjoyed the experience but confessed to facing some bullying. In response, the governor told her, “Welcome to the real world, where there is no protection, and you have to do whatever it is that they are doing out there.”
The governor’s remarks resonated with the gathered corps members, reminding them that challenges are part of life’s journey and emphasizing resilience as they step into the real world.
