The call for Season 2 came early. Campers from the first edition were already asking for dates before December even came. Although our dear Vianney, who was the most fun camper in season one couldn’t make it, Williams and Favor joined as first timers, bringing the crew to seven—one more than the previous year.
Because of how much fun we had in season 1, We returned to Niger State because sometimes the heart is wiser than novelty—it knows where to find home. Unsurprisingly, we had an even better camp.
It was fun to see everybody reunite because most of us hadn’t seen each other the entire year since the last camp. The feeling of this camp wasn’t like that of a camping trip, but like a family reunion. Everybody kinda just settled into their roles from last year and the organisation of the camp was simple.
Asma held down the kitchen with the support of favor, together they prepared such tasty meals that we started to feel like we were home. Williams and Adamu got busy setting up camp and the rest went fetching wood.
The scenery was truly breath-taking especially with the big waterfall in view. Throughout the camp duration, We played games, hiked nearby hills, and sang off-key like we were being paid for it.
The days felt fuller, and the nights warmer even in the freezing harmattan cold. On the final day of camp, Gbagyi dancers arrived and set the camp alight. We clapped until our palms stung, then we stood in silence, absorbing that last moment as if to press it into memory. We enjoyed some moments with the locals before we departed and left for home. Another year concluded with adventure and another new year started with hope, and positivity.
When we left on January 1st, we weren’t merely rested—we were recalibrated. Season 2 proved that consistency breeds belonging. We didn’t just return to a location; we returned to ourselves.
Reflections & Lessons (Season 2)
“We didn’t go back to repeat; we went back to remember.” — Olobo (camp Coordinator)
