If you’ve ever been around NYSC (National Youth Service Corps) members in Nigeria or followed discussions about camp life, you’ve probably heard the word “Otondo.”
It’s one of the most popular names used to describe fresh Corps members, but have you ever stopped to ask why? Why exactly are Corpers called “Otondo”?
This article will break it down, explain its meaning, and explore why the nickname has stuck for generations of Nigerian graduates.
Why Are Corpers Nicknamed Otondo
When you step into NYSC orientation camp for the first time, you quickly realize that you’ve entered a world of its own — early morning drills, soldiers shouting “Double up!”, endless queues at the clinic, and strange new words flying around.
One of those words is “Otondo.”
“Otondo” is simply a slang used by soldiers and senior Corpers to describe new Corpers who don’t yet know anything about camp life.
It’s like saying:
- “You’re fresh, clueless, and still trying to understand how things work.”
When you first arrive at camp, you don’t know the rules, you don’t know the schedules, and you don’t even know which platoon you belong to — and that’s when the soldiers hit you with the nickname:
“Otondo! Otondo! Double up!”
It’s not meant to insult you (well, sometimes they tease you a little). It’s more of a friendly initiation word — a reminder that you are a learner in this new system.
What Does “Otondo” Mean?
Interestingly, the word Otondo has a wider meaning outside NYSC.
- In some parts of Nigeria, Otondo is used for anyone who’s naive or inexperienced.
- In secondary school slang, it was often used for students who weren’t performing well academically.
- In the NYSC context, it has evolved to mean “fresh fish” (newbie) — just like first-year students are called “Jambites” in Nigerian universities.
So, if someone calls you Otondo in camp, don’t get offended. It simply means:
“Welcome to NYSC. You’re still new here.”
NYSC Camp Terminologies Every Otondo Must Know
If you’re new to camp, you’ll hear lots of strange words being thrown around. Here’s a quick guide to help you blend in:
Allowee
Your monthly NYSC allowance from the federal government (₦33,000 as of 2024). Some states also add their own “state allowee.”
AI / LGI
Area Inspector or Local Government Inspector – NYSC officials in charge of Corps members in each Local Government.
Book of Life
The sacred register where every Corper must write their name in camp. If your name is missing, you are basically invisible to NYSC.
Mami Market
The lively mini-market inside every orientation camp where you can buy food, snacks, provisions, and even do your hair. It’s the unofficial “fun spot” of camp.
Ghost Corper
A Corper who is always missing but still manages to collect their allowance every month. (Don’t ask how they do it – Naija levels!)
CLO
Corps Liaison Officer – The “head Corper” for each Local Government Area.
PPA
Place of Primary Assignment – The organization you’ll serve after leaving camp (a school, government office, company, etc.).
SAED
Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development – NYSC’s program to teach Corpers business and vocational skills (though many call it the “most boring” lectures in camp).
Is “Otondo” an Insult?
Some people jokingly say Otondo means “Mumu” (a fool), but in reality, that’s not how NYSC uses it.
In camp, it’s more of:
A nickname for the inexperienced.
A playful reminder that you’re new.
After a few weeks, you’ll shed the “Otondo” title as you understand the system — and you’ll probably start using it for the next batch of Corpers coming in!
Special Tip for New Corpers
Since you’ve read up to this point, here’s a small gift for you.
If you’re planning your NYSC year, you’ll definitely travel a lot — from camp to your PPA and beyond. Why spend so much on hotels when you can get cheaper rates?
Visit thetravelhunters.com to book your next hotel at a discounted price.
Final Thoughts
The nickname “Otondo” is not just a word — it’s a rite of passage for every Nigerian graduate stepping into the NYSC experience.
It symbolizes being new, inexperienced, and about to learn.
So, if you’re heading to camp and you hear soldiers or senior Corpers calling you Otondo, just smile and embrace it. Because one day, you’ll be the one calling the next batch Otondo too!
