October 24, 2024, will forever be indelible in my memory. As I gazed at the email notification, my heart beat more than usual. I exclaimed in surprise, “Ha!” The reality of embarking on a journey to Minna, Niger State, for 21 days without my family by my side suddenly dawned on me.
Every journey I’d ever taken had been in my parent’s presence. As a dutiful daughter, I sought my parents’ blessing. After some deliberation, I received their consent, but on one condition: my father would accompany me to ensure my safety. And so, our journey began.
On October 29th, 2024, at 5:30 AM, my father and I set off. We drove through Lagos’ bustling streets, boarding buses and crossing paths with fellow travellers. As we departed from Iddo terminus, I sat by the window, eager to soak in the world outside.
The journey unfolded like a canvas of wonders. I marvelled at the bridges, ancient mountains, and serene environments. Villages whizzed by, their rustic charm captivating me. I snapped memories with my phone, preserving the beauty of nature. While our driver travelled the roads, I relaxed, mesmerised by the passing landscape. Tiredness set in, and I rested my chin on my hand, letting the scenery lull me.
Reaching Minna proved smoother than expected, thanks to three reassuring factors: my father’s presence, the guidance of prominent HCAF members, and the helpful signposts along the way.
As we arrived in Minna, I felt a mix of emotions: excitement, relief, and a sense of accomplishment. This journey marked a new chapter, one where I’d spread my wings and discover my strength. Baba Dzukogi, being a humble man, came to pick up my dad and me. They conversed in the Hausa language while I got lost in awe.
The next day, the security man, the cleaner, and Mr. Makama extended warm welcomes. Later, Soluchi and Happy visited, though I slumbered through their arrival. The Landlord; Aliyu Umar, Emmanuel, and Prof. Awal arrived with warm smiles and inquisitive minds. Their questions and jests left me smiling. As they departed, Aliyu Umar lingered, assisting my father in finding a return bus. I felt a mix of relief and anticipation, knowing I’d have all the time to myself. We took Keke to Tunga Market, and he showed us NSTA and a place to eat. We said goodbye and called it a day.
Now this is where my own Minna experience began. I was the only one inside a spacious house, large enough to swallow me. I woke up early and began to unpack my bags. The next thing was to explore the room with my phone. I stopped when my phone was boiling with anger. Later on, the Director of MAAR (Mrs. Zainab Dzukogi) came over and welcomed me personally. I enjoyed her presence. I was informed that my second roommate would be joining me and the opening ceremony would be held the next day. I expressed my gratitude, and she left. I spent the rest of the day consuming what was in the fridge; I penned some story ideas, went online, waited up for Judith, moderated a game, and went to sleep.
At 5 pm, the opening ceremony began, and I was told to go to the high seat. “Opoorr!” Hilltop has given me a spot at the top. Everyone admires my attire. I know I ate. It was giving steeze and composure. I had the privilege of coming in close contact with Aisha Wakaso, the sponsor of The Wakaso Poetry Prize for Female Writers, a contest I had earlier won. It was evident that I was excited to see her. During the program, Mrs. Zainab Dzukogi welcomed us again, and outstanding poetry performances were made. I enjoyed that of Abrar, “If it is too hard, I’m gonna push through.” I also got to read my winning poem, answered Aliyu’s nonstop questions and had a picture session with the guests.
I was informed that Judith was close to Minna, so I decided to wait for her. At exactly 11:10 pm, I heard shuffling of feet and light knocks. I opened the door, and there she was looking exhausted. I changed my mind about venting. “Another day will come.” I showed her the room, made her comfortable, and we went to bed.
I woke up the next day, being weekend, and prepared for my first official task: the weekly mentorship session. By noon, Hilltop scholars came in two and three for the class. We quickly made a seating arrangement and gladly welcomed them to class. Baba (BM Dzukogi) made an official speech and told the teenagers who we were and the purpose of our stay. Afterwards, the mentorship began, and Judith and I took turns handling the class. We had a full class. At 2 pm sharp, the class came to an end.
The next few minutes, Judith and I went in search of food, and having occurred to me that this was our first time hanging out together, I found my hands and my smartphone camera communicating; somehow my mouth joined the chat. The interesting thing I got to know about Judith was that she speaks the Hausa language fluently. “Finally, Mr. Makama won’t send me back inside.” I was thrilled. We went to Flamingo and entered Temitope restaurant. Orders were placed, and for the first time, I had my first swallow. Fufu and ewedu, topped with Malt.
Next, I had a prominent guest, or would I say a big landlord. Sadiq Abubakar Mustapha, who took time out of his tight schedule to come to greet me. I felt honoured. I ushered him to the living room and offered him a sachet of cold water. We exchanged warm greetings. He asked about my journey, and I told him that my journey was great. Soluchi came over to greet him and talked business. Sadiq brought out his photography equipment and showed it to me, stating its functions. I had the pleasure to hold and examine them.
I spent the rest of the week waking up late with no disturbance, visiting the library, taking awesome shots while exploring different concepts, bonding with Judith, Happy, and Soluchi, exploring Minna and visiting places like the Emir Palace, UK Bello Art Theatre, Kure Market, etc., eating different dishes, mentoring my landlord and his associates, watching TV, and calling home. My Saturdays and Sundays were tight with activities. I had a lovely experience. I enjoyed each conversation with Baba (BM Dzukogi) and Mr. Makama. During my stay, I had the honour to meet with Ms. Fatima Salihu, popularly known as “Sketches,” Ibraheem Uthman, best known as “Lonely Poet,” and Mr. Olumide Ojo. I learnt to play chess and sing some Hausa songs and words. I also got three signed copies of Baba’s (BM Dzukogi) new books yet to be launched. Got free pawpaw from the centre from time to time. Read free books and learn how to slam too.
Staying in Minna has broadened my perspective about life. MAAR has fuelled my creativity. My self-esteem has been boosted. I’m grateful to the Hilltop Creative Arts Foundation for creating such a wonderful program for creatives. I came here with a flower, but I’m going back with a bouquet of colourful flowers.
I’d like to appreciate Judith L. Maikaho for being the best roomie and tolerating my childish attitude. Thank you so much for making my hair and always looking out for me. Thank you also for volunteering to be my model.
To Happy, I don’t know where to start from. I really can’t thank you enough. I appreciate your heart of gold. Thank you so much for the hot water, food, kuli kuli, and hair products you gave. Thank you so much for your patience in teaching me the Hausa song. And lastly, thank you so much for teaching me how to tie a Zara scarf.
* I mean, look at me now. (I’m wearing a Zara scarf tomorrow for the program.) PS: To be removed after the program.
To Soluchi, Daluso! Thank you so much for your care and love. I pray your business blooms beyond your imagination. Thank you so much for always warming my fried rice and jollof rice. God bless you.
To my parents, thank you so much for your support and prayers. I love you, and I promise to make you proud.
God bless Nigeria
God bless Minna
God bless Hilltop
God bless MAAR
Thank you so much!
