Chasing sunset to sunrise

I finally did it! After talking about it forever, I went camping  yes, real-life, sleep-outside-with-a-tent kind of camping right in the heart of Abuja. My goal? To witness the sunset bow out and catch the sunrise take the stage. What I didn’t expect was a full-on nature immersion, a soul reset, and enough laughter to last me the week.

At first, I felt guilty leaving my royal highness, Moori (my cat), behind. But don’t worry  I fed her well, stocked her royal pantry, and left her queendom warm and cozy. She's now officially the Queen of the house, and honestly, she acts the part too well.

I packed my essentials like a camping queen  duvet, hijab, bottled water, drinks, cheeseballs, and my beautiful self. I was supposed to ride with Adventure Lord, but the man’s car was full (he’s popular like that), so I hopped on public transport  because what’s an adventure without a little plot twist? We were to meet at Shema fuel station by 5pm, but thanks to African timing and some last-minute arrangements, I was behind schedule. Eddie picked me up, and we drove off to meet the rest of the crew.

I wasn’t particularly pumped  blame it on the morning hike and not catching a nap. But once I breathed in that mountain breeze (cooler than AC, no cap), I knew I was exactly where I needed to be. We were just 20 people, but what a beautiful mix  great minds, adventurous spirits, and genuinely positive energy.

The Mountain, The Briefing & The Tent

Before we did anything major, there was a headcount and security briefing led by our one-and-only (I won't drop his name here  let me respect his mystery status). He laid down the safety guidelines and made sure everyone felt secure. It wasn’t just vibes and nature  we were being intentional about looking out for each other. That thoughtful coordination gave the whole trip a layer of peace.

Peruzzi (bless your hands) helped pitch our tent. People who brought food shared it around. I passed my drinks too  because sharing is caring and hydration is essential. While the tent was being set up, the mountain sent a “warm” welcome  a small scorpion appeared. Yep, nature doesn't joke. It was quickly dealt with.

I felt some heaviness in my chest. Something was silently bothering me, and I didn’t even realise how much until I shared it with one of the elders among us. That conversation was a gift a reminder that life will life, but what you make out of it is what truly matters. I’m so grateful for the kind souls I met there.

Then came game time. Mr. Jossie took the lead if you failed, you paid or drank. I missed one round of “lemon, lemon” and knew I might be racking up a tab, so I stylishly checked out. Just as we were deep into fun, another scorpion showed up. This one? Big, black, and bold the biggest I’ve ever seen with my own eyes. It was eliminated too, and someone suggested burning it. I voted no, but majority carried the day.

As midnight rolled in, the games continued. We roasted yam (I forgot mine, judge me gently), sipped coffee, and soaked in the vibe. By 2am, Eddie suggested we sleep while the men agreed to take turns watching over everyone  real-life guardians of the mountain. Hercule (my gee) had already vowed he wasn’t sleeping. Me? I tried. Got about an hour in total, waking up at intervals. The breeze was extra cold and strong by then, but the tent held its own and kept me warm.

Sunrise, Scenery & Soft Moments

By 4am I was up again, lying quietly, reflecting on life, on growth, on stillness. At 5am it was prayer time  I got up, did ablution and prayed under the vast sky. A moment of serenity I’ll never forget. Moh prayed too. Later, I found Hercule who had slept outside like a proper adventurer, and we got into one of our signature banters. That guy has a way of using unfiltered words in the politest ways. He and Moh went back and forth like seasoned comedians.

Then it happened  sunrise.

The sky began to blush with light and warmth, and Abuja slowly unveiled its morning beauty. It felt like a movie. Only this time, I wasn’t watching it. I was in it.

Everyone woke up, exchanged sleepy smiles and playful jabs. Hercule tried to light a fire to warm himself. He struggled. Enter our fire queen  one of the ladies lit it effortlessly. She saved the morning. MizT warmed her leftover rice, and the good vibes continued. We played a few rounds of Whot led by Moh (somebody sign this guy up for a game show), took photos, and started packing up.

We dismantled the tents, picked up every plastic bottle and piece of litter, and burned the trash to keep the mountain clean. Those with cars kindly gave lifts to the rest of us. Blessings on blessings.

Lessons from the Mountain:

1. This adventure wasn’t just about chasing the sun  it chased a few truths out of me too. Here’s what the mountaintop (and a few scorpions) reminded me:

2. Adaptability is a life skill. Whether it’s switching from private car to public transport, or sleeping under the stars  life flows easier when we learn to adjust, not resist.

3. Disconnect to reconnect. Sometimes, stepping away from the noise of civilization is exactly what the soul needs to hear itself again.

4. Don’t just go by “they said.” Do your research. People mean well, but your peace demands clarity, not guesswork.

5. Love shouldn’t make you question your worth. If any relationship  romantic, platonic, or otherwise  makes you feel unsure of who you are, pack your emotional sleeping bag and run o.

6. To elevate your essence, pause. Take a step back with compassion, then move forward with kindness and renewed hope. And when the weight gets heavy, seek help from professionals, or from people whose wisdom you trust.

This wasn’t just a camp-out  it was a gentle realignment. Nature has a way of reminding us who we are, what we carry, and why we must keep choosing joy, even when it comes with roasted yam and a side of scorpions.

Special shoutout to the three men who took security seriously  may the Almighty continue to protect and bless you all abundantly. 

And to a kind soul who was sweet and gentle with me when I needed it most  may the Almighty answer your heartfelt prayers. A.M. You may never know how much that meant to me.

Back to the Queendom

As I got home, guess who was waiting for me right by the door? Her royal highness, Moori. She gave me that “You finally came back to your senses” look. I scooped her up into a hug and went straight to the kitchen to make us a light breakfast. After eating together like two queens, we curled up and slept through the rest of the morning soft life activated.

Would I do this again? Absolutely. Maybe next time, I’ll remember the yam.

Until I come your way again have an amazing new week. Keep chasing sunsets, growing through the breeze, and laughing through the sting.