Eniola Amusan, a young Nigerian graduate, has opened up about the devastating events that unfolded during her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) posting in 2021, leaving her paralysed from the chest down and fighting to rebuild her life. She was the sole survivor of a road accident that claimed the lives of all other passengers.
How the Accident Changed Her Life
During an interview with BBC News Pidgin, Eniola recounted how her service year began with illness at the orientation camp, which led to her being sent home. Shortly after, she was involved in a road accident so severe that she was the only person to survive it. The crash caused serious damage to her spinal cord, stripping away all sensation below her chest and robbing her of the ability to control her bladder and bowel functions. According to her story, she now relies on diapers and caregivers to manage her daily needs.
Determination to Recover and Do Great Things
Despite everything she has been through, Eniola says her desire is to stop relying on the goodwill of others and to "do great things in life." She is currently undergoing physical therapy, working towards full recovery. However, one thing she is firm on is that she said she would never allow her own children to participate in the NYSC programme.
She said: "If I no go for NYSC, nothing fit happen to me. I for just stay at home and everything would be fine. I was posted to Akwa Ibom. If I no go far like that, maybe I for be okay."
Social Media Reactions
The video stirred strong emotions across social media, with many viewers sharing their thoughts on her experience and the NYSC programme. Joshua Bivins commented: "If you serve and come back safe, you don't know wat God did for u..." Phemie Ikeji said: "The truth is it's not the NYSC whatever will happen will happen even if you're in your bedroom." Felicia Sams offered encouragement: "You will surely walk again!"
NYSC Extension and Broader Concerns
Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that Nigerians reacted to the extension of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation from three weeks to six weeks. Many raised concerns over inadequate camp facilities and increased expenses for corps members.
