Steep Climbs, Big Smiles & Team Colours"

 

Saturdays are for hiking because really, what else should one do in Abuja?

Gratitude overflows for another adventure with Naija Adventure, a community that keeps giving support, fun, and sweaty legs. We hiked, played a colour game, and of course, all our teams came to win because losing isn’t part of our DNA!

I'm especially grateful for the winning spirit that we all carry it shows up not just in games but in life, from the trail to the tiniest moments. Even my cat, Moori, is aligning with the vibe she’s finally cooperating! I fed her, kept some food for her, tended to my plants like a green-fingered goddess, and wore my green shirt to represent my team like a proud warrior of Team Nature.

We had two meeting points this time City Park as usual and Beca Apartment at Katampe Extension for folks from Kubwa axis. I invited a long-lost friend, MAZ, whom I hadn’t seen in two years (crazy, right?). Life’s sweet surprises: just as I stepped out (a bit behind schedule, thanks to putting Moori to sleep), a kind fellow hiker spotted me and offered a ride. Hiker kindness is undefeated!

At the meetup, it was hugs, greetings, and even a little impromptu marketing of my mountain goat hat for my fellow hiker. We welcomed familiar faces like Oga Musa back and better please, we dey wait for Hausa saraba! Meaning gift in hausa. I got. A hug from miss Niri which Anthony jealous and of course, the ever-smiling Alice, my tight-hugging therapist Ms. Claudia, and comeback queen Miss Harmony joined the vibes. And ever lively Sadiq too.

After our mini reunion, we moved to the hiking spot. Shoutout to Moh and Eddie, who were already on the mountain like hosts awaiting guests at a family BBQ. With over 300 people ready to test their knees and willpower, the mountain welcomed us with steep paths and laughter. Some tried running (bless their souls), others walked stylishly while panting (fashion meets cardio), and a few did both.

After our first rest stop (where we collectively questioned our life choices), we reminded ourselves of the number one hiking rule: stick with the group because wandering off isn’t part of the adventure package.

Then came the colour games! Smoothies in hand, goat meat on deck, kilishi secured (courtesy of a fine lady).

First was the aerobic session lead by celebrity trainer. And our game master Sam lit the spark.

Team Green for nature and abundance

Team Yellow for boldness

Team Red for dangerous achievers

Team Blue for audaciousness

Despite the suspicious shirt swapping and some lowkey betrayal (Moh switching from yellow to blue because they won snitching with style), we had a blast!

From straw water games to yes or no challenges, I participated in the yes or no challenge, the air was electric with excitement, confusion, and fierce fun.

Peruzzi and Mr Josie somehow ended up in every team photos how na?

We ended the day with tired legs, full hearts, and hilariosmemories.

Our elder showed up repping Team Red with pride now that’s legacy in motion. Ms. Claudia too brought her fiery energy to Team Red. And shoutout to Mr. Solomon, who came fully prepared for Team Blue he took more pictures of them than any other team. I mean, if I were in blue too, I’d have done the same!

On our way down, we took a different route and oh, the drama! Some folks looked around like, “Wait… are we climbing another mountain?” Meanwhile, the adventurous ones marched ahead like they were leading a nature parade.

At some point, a few zealous hikers branched off into their own mini expedition. We even had to call out to them from afar some didn’t hear, and some heard but pretended not to (you know yourselves). But that’s the joy and chaos of hiking one minute you're exploring, next you're unintentionally testing your stamina.

Moral of the trail? Stick with the group leader, unless you’re out for both cardio and confusion with an extra side of sore legs!

Gratitude for the community, the kindness of strangers, the joy of reunion, the beauty of nature, and my cat finally getting the memo.

If you’ve been thinking of stepping out, connecting with nature, or just shaking off some stress this is your sign. Come hike, laugh, and live a little.

Catch us on the next trail. Wear your joy and maybe not your team colour, because next week promises a new twist. No colour game this time, but trust me, it’s something you won’t want to miss!

I got home to find Moori patiently waiting like the queen she is. Gave her a treat for her loyalty, did a quick laundry run, then tried to nap but guess who ended up staring at the ceiling instead? Yep, me. The nap ghost strikes again.

Peace ✌️

See you on the next trail!

Photos credit goes to our very own Mr Solomon aka Dabelle_2018 on Instagram.