By: Obanla Ridwan Olawale
When Shukurat Temitope Ibrahim, fondly called Shuks, stepped into Gombe State as a fresh NYSC corps member, she was a total stranger. No roots. No familiar faces. Just a dream to serve and a quiet fire in her soul. What followed was a journey of transformation, not just for her, but for an entire community.
Due to her commitment and activeness, she was appointed as the Girl Child Education Ambassador for Gombe State, which she did not take the lightly. She carried it with purpose and poise, determined to not just speak for girls, but to fight for them. In a state where many students battle the harsh realities of poverty, lack of basic school materials, and limited access to proper infrastructure, Shuks saw a gap and filled it with hope.
Her community development project, themed “Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Through Education,” was more than NYSC requirement. It became a mission. From hosting stakeholder engagements, organizing a thought-provoking debate competition, to sponsoring school fees and distributing school materials, Shuks and her team of volunteers went above and beyond. She facilitated a life-changing educational campaign that encouraged students to dream beyond their limitations.
But perhaps the most remarkable moment was when the toilets in Kamara Primary School and Government Vocational Training Center, Bolari East, began construction. Originally, she planned to renovate the existing structures, but her voice, her advocacy drew the attention of the Gombe State Community and Social Development Agency, who took up the project and expanded it far beyond the initial vision. Today, both schools are getting eight brand-new toilet blocks each. Not because she had millions, but because she had the courage to speak, and the heart to act.
During the closing ceremony of her project, Shuks donated 50 school sandals and 100 writing materials, equally divided between primary and secondary schools. She also launched Jewel Bulletin, the first-ever NYSC bulletin produced by a corps member in Gombe, documenting her journey, struggles, milestones, and most of all, her impact.
In the words of the NYSC Zonal Inspector, “This is what NYSC should be about, not just wearing the khaki, but wearing purpose.”
The Education Secretary of Gombe, principals, headmasters, NYSC officials, and other dignitaries present did not just applaud her. They celebrated her. Not as a visitor. Not as a corps member. But as one of their own, a daughter of Gombe by impact.
And to every young woman reading, wondering if she’s capable of greatness, Shuks sends this quiet but firm message: You can do more than you think. Success isn’t reserved for men. Impact has no gender. Your voice matters. Your actions matter. You matter.
She came to Gombe a stranger. She is leaving a legacy that will outlive her khaki.
