Heading to NYSC Camp? Here’s what you shouldn’t forget (Full List)

Every year, thousands of Nigerian graduates take the leap from university classrooms to the much-anticipated National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camp, a one-year national program that blends duty, discovery, and development.

At the heart of this journey is the NYSC orientation camp, a three-week intensive bootcamp that marks the beginning of service.

It’s a whirlwind of early morning drills, cultural immersion, friendships, and life-changing experiences.

But let’s face it: it’s also physically and mentally demanding.

To make the most of your camp experience, being well-prepared is key. Sure, the mami market (the on-site camp marketplace) is there for last-minute buys, but prices are usually steep, and selections can be limited.

Packing wisely not only ensures comfort, it also helps you participate fully and confidently in all camp activities.

Whether you’re headed to a dusty northern state, the humid coasts of the South, the heart of the East, or the hills of the West, this ultimate checklist will help you arrive like a champ.

Essential documents for registration

Daily Watch Nigeria can boldly tell you without these documents, you won’t even get past the registration gate.

• Original Call-Up Letter + 3 photocopies
• NYSC Green Card (from your NYSC portal) + 3 photocopies
• Statement of Result or Degree Certificate + 3 photocopies
• School ID Card (front and back, photocopied on one A4 sheet)
• Passport Photographs (6–8 copies, white background preferred)
• Clear Bag or File Jacket (to neatly organize your documents)
• Medical Certificates/Licenses (for medical professionals – original + copies)
• Medical Report/Certificate (especially if applying for relocation or exemption)

Stationaries

Because you’ll be filling out several forms during registration, this items are very important.

• Blue and black pens
• Small notepad or jotter
• Glue or gum
• Stapler and pins
• Permanent marker
• Correction fluid (Tippex)
• Clothing

While NYSC provides basic wear, you’ll need extras to survive the camp hustle.

Most of the wears given by camp officials may not be your size.

So you will need:

• Plain white round-neck T-shirts (3–6)
• White shorts (3–6)
• Sturdy white canvas shoes/sneakers (1 pair)
• White socks (3–6 pairs)
• Enough underwear for 2–3 weeks
• White cardigan (mornings can be cold)
• Casual wear (2 sets, for Sundays or social evenings)
• Toiletries & diily essentials

You’ll thank yourself later for bringing these. Make sure you don’t forget to thank Daily Watch Nigeria too.

1. Bath soap, sponge and sponge case
2. Toothbrush and toothpaste
3. Body cream or lotion
4. Towel
5. Toilet paper (bring enough)
6. Detergents and bar soap
7. Mild bleach (like Hypo)
8. Antiseptics (e.g., Dettol or Savlon)
9. Deodorant or body spray
10. Bucket and bowl (for bathing/washing)
11. Pegs and cloth hangers
12. Bathroom slippers
13. Bedsheet blanket, pillow, and pillowcase
14. Mosquito net or insect repellent
15. Plate, cup, spoon and flask
16. Light cutleries(you don’t need a full set)
    Rechargeable torchlight
17. Waist pouch or fanny pack (keep valuables close)
18. Power bankand phone charger
19. Bible/Quran for spiritual strength

First-Aid & medications

Camp clinics are often overwhelmed. Bring your personal mini pharmacy.

• Paracetamol
• Vitamin C
• Antimalarial drugs
• Anti-diarrheal (e.g., Flagyl or Imodium)
• Any doctor-prescribed antibiotics
• Balm (e.g., Robb)
• Antihistamines (for allergies)
• Cotton wool, plasters, and a mini first-aid kit

Also, don’t forget Carry to a reasonable amount of cash for food, emergencies, or items you forgot to pack.

POS and mobile banking networks often fluctuate in camp.

Daily Watch Nigeria wishes you the best of luck as you begin your NYSC adventure.