Mindviewers Stories

We have been getting ready for a special sports week at school. Every department was going to play matches against each other and I’ve been training very hard and haven't missed a single practice. I was excited for our first match up with other departments.

When the match started, I was sitting on the bench. I thought I would get to play, but they didn’t let me. Even though I know I’m a good player and can play better than some of the guys on the field, they kept me waiting on the bench.

The game ended with both teams scoring 1 goal each, so we decided to pause the match for the day and fix another daye for a rematch.
The next day, we were told to come for practice again. I was called to the football field with the ball, but then I felt like I disappeared. It was like I was a ghost for the whole day. They all called and called but iyaaa, if I no frustrate them no be me.

I decided it was finally time to put on my sneakers and get on the field and jog.
My class people had organised a little jogging get together just to rekindle the relationship among us students.
I convinced one of my friends to join me, and we started with a slow pace jog.

But fate had other plans. On my second lap back, I misstepped and stumbled over a stone. It caught me off guard, and I felt a sharp pain on my left toe. When I looked down and removed my left shoe, blood was gushing from my king-toe, and for a moment, all I could think was why it chose to happen just while I was having a little fun, But despite the pain and the frustration, I refused to let it get the better of me.

I took a deep breath and remembered why I had come out there in the first place. I didnt want to end the little fun that had just started because of a little setback After cleaning up the wound, I got back on the track, even happier, I can't let my enemies triumph.

The first time I went to a swimming pool, it was one of the most embarrassing days of my life. Here I was, a grown man, thinking I could at least manage, only to realize I had no idea what I was doing. My sister had dragged me there, insisting I needed to learn, but honestly, I thought swimming would come naturally as everyone makes it look easy on TV.

My sister, of course, knew how to swim like a pro. She’d been doing it since she was a kid, so she was floating across the pool like she was born in the water. Meanwhile, I was splashing around, struggling just to stay afloat. I could see her trying not to laugh as I desperately kicked my legs and waved my arms, hoping something would happen. But instead of swimming, I was basically just creating waves.

Eventually, I decided to swallow my pride and try to learn the basics like my sister showed me. But no matter how hard I tried, it felt like my body just wasn’t meant for water. After a while, exhaustion took over, and I decided I’d had enough.

That experience was more than enough for me. I just couldn’t see the point of torturing myself when I could happily stay on land. But the worst part? My sister wouldn’t let me forget it. She joked about my “swimming skills” for days.
I can laugh about it now, even if it was pretty humiliating at the time. Maybe one day I’ll give swimming another try but definitely not with my sister as my instructor

so last week Saturday, I went to jog. I was jogging around the roadside when, lo and behold, I spotted one of the most beautuful creations on earth. Seriously ehh no word could describe her. She was just a spectacle, you know what is called an epitome of African beauty?

So naturally, I decided to take up position right behind her (its funny because before I saw her, I was out of strength but all of a sudden I felt an energy surge)
I mean, who wouldn’t want to jog behind a sight like that self? I started walking, then quickly changed to jogging, not because I was following girl oo but because it suddenly felt like I had a mission, you know?

Someone who was ready to go home and rest before but that beauty was inspiring me to jog for an extra few rounds before my legs finally revolted and demanded I retire back to where I came.

And let me tell you, it was fun! Not like I'm a girl chaser, I’m a disciplined person. No, I was just motivating myself with the pure joy of trying to keep up with the beauty ahead of me that was all

disclaimer: this story does not promote football or foster its relations

Today I spent more than half the day in a nearby hotel, completely busy all through watching football matches.
This hotel that I went to had a good comfortable setup with a giant screen TV. It was like being watching the match live.

There was just one problem with this hotel. Whenever people gathered to enjoy the matches, the staff would go around questioning everyone about buying drinks or something from the hotel. It was like a secret tactic of theirs to make more sales, and I could see their faces beam whenever people start to stream in to catchup with any match.

As I settled down in a well positioned seat, I noticed they were going table by table,questioning everyone and taking orders. My heart began to race. You see, I had no cash to lavish. The thought of standing there and admitting I had no money made unsettled.

So, when they reached my table, I put on my best serious face and smiled like I had nothing troubling me. They asked, What I would like to order.

I’m just waiting for my friend, I exclaimed with an indifferent expression, hoping they will just get moving past me already.
It worked I managed to dodge the billing.

After everything, they won my team, so imagine if After I squandered my money only for them to score my team 2:1?

I decided to try something new, as yesterday was Saturday.
Of all things to try out, one mumu thought chose to try out skating!

I borrowed some skating shoes from my close friend. I asked him to come with me too because I needed a little support and someone to laugh with.

We headed to a nearby square, and I thought to myself about how it was all going to be a piece of cake. I started skating, moving slowly at first. My friend held my hands, guiding my steps so that I dont trip.

But then, I started feeling brave and thought I could do it on my own, So, I told my friend to let go. He hesitated but finally let my hands go.

Happily, I was skating all by myself. It felt like a champion as i was sliding smoothly down the street.

That was when disaster struck, the devil couldn't even let me enjoy two minutes of my champion feeling, my feeling of sliding like a pro.
I lost my balance and gbam, I saw myself crashing into one of these big metal dustbin on the road side.
My friend burst out laughing.

There I was, tangled up with the dustbin struggling to get up but those shoes kept throwing me down. At that moment, I knew I was not going to try out skating again any time soon.

I Was Sitting On My Sofa Pondering Whether It Was The Last Night Of The Year And Whether I Should Start Making Lists 🧾 Of My Resolutions For The Next Year.
Year After Year, I Made Spirited New Year Resolutions Only To Forget Them The Very Next Day, So Funny Right...?
But This Year I Decided To Make It Different.

My Main New Year Resolution Was To Shed 10 Pounds And As Time Goes On, I Will Gradually Make An Increase To That Figure. My Weight Has Been An Issue Since Childhood And This Year I Vowed To Change That. My Goals Were To Go To The Gym 4 Days A Week, Stop Consuming Carbonated Drinks With Too Much Added Sugar, Increase Water Intake, Take In Lots Of Fruits And To Increase Vegetables Portion At Every Meal.

From The Social Norms On January 1st, I Woke Up With A Fighting Spirit As Usual. I Had To Carry My Gym Bag And Exercise For The First Time In The New Year. There Were Other Peeps There, Who Were Also Into Their Exercise Routines Within The Gym. After The Following Days, It Took Me Few More Weeks To Stick To My Healthy Plan, Routine And Lifestyle.

My Attitude Of Motivation However, Began To Reduce By Mid-April. The Scale Read The Same As The Last Time I Looked At It. With Time I Started Coming Up With Reasons Not To Go To The Gym🏋️ And Of Course I Eventually Returned To The Old Habits Of Eating And Eating😭

I Then Felt Like I Really Let Myself Down; But With Time, Something Got My Attention Of Which I Contacted My Friend Jobravo With Whom I Share The Same Objectives Of Boosting My Body Fitness With. Nathaniel & Chinwe Thought That It Would Be Best To Do Their Resolutions In Pairs For Encouragement & Supportive Purposes, Which I Thought Was A Sweet And Cool Thing ToDo, Instead Of Exercising Or Playing Sports Individually.

We Physically Did Some Exercise Checks And Prepare Our Meals According To The Recommended Nutritional Value Which Will Help In The Fitness Process. I Kept On With A Proper Schedule Throughout The Year With The Help Of Jobravo.

So, On The Next New Year’s Eve I Stepped On The Scale Which To My Greatest Surprise I Realize I Have Lost 15 Pounds[Surpassing My Initial Weight Loss Goal]. Though, Looking Skinny Than Expected Which I Still Had Few Routine Checks ToDo But It Was Already Getting To That Time Of "The Best I Could Do At Those Particular Times."
With Time, I Also Resolved That Making Sensible Changes Is Gradual But Having People To Support One In Attaining These Goals Makes Them Seem Realistic, Easier And Achievable.

I am someone who values health and wants everyone in my household to also see their health as important as I do.
I want everybody basking in good health and then bubbling strong even when they are aging especially my Dad and Mom.

So after looking up some health tips, I studied on diet and exercises and how they could help elongate lifespan

so in a particular Saturday, I was able to convince my parents and all my siblings to come out for a little jogging.
But before the jogging, the evening earlier, I already bribed them with some drinks. I just used my little savings and got some bottles of drinks for every member of my family and then at that moment I seized it and convince them to follow me to sporting the next morning.

Well... I wanted them to value the proposed activity more even though they reluctantly prepared.
we all later went for the jogging and it was a good time together, I pray they all agree to join me this coming Sartuday too.

Last week, I had some extra cash and decided to try hiking for the first time. The company in charge offered a reasonable price, and they even provided us with protective gear and a guide to show us the way. Our transport was fully covered both ways, and they gave us some snacks to keep us going.

At first, everything was going great. The weather was nice, and the journey was manageable. But then, I lost my stamina and slipped, breaking my ankle before we had even made it halfway up the mountain. It was painful, but I thought maybe I could push through and keep going with the group.

Unfortunately, the pain was too much, and I realized I couldn’t keep up. The guide was really kind and offered to stay behind with me, but I didn’t want to hold him back. I told him he should continue with the rest of the group and enjoy the hike. After all, my injury shouldn’t ruin his experience.

They gave me some first aid and made sure I was in a safe place while the others finished the hike. I waited patiently, trying to stay positive even though I was disappointed about not making it to the top.
When the hike was over, the guide returned to help me. He supported me as I hopped back to the vehicle, and we all made our way back together. Over half of my money was refunded too 😹 It's well

I walked into a group of four young men deep in conversation. They were discussing business, wealthy people, and how they manage their investments. One of them was talking about how some rich people take out huge loans even when they don’t have much cash in their bank accounts.

He explained that these rich people often have assets that are worth a lot of money. Even if they don’t have the cash on hand, their properties, businesses, and other investments give them the power to borrow large amounts of money from banks.
Another guy jumped in, saying that it’s not always about the money in your account but about your overall network and the value of what you own. He said that if you really want to make money, you need to think about building your assets and connections.

I stood there quietly, taking in their conversation. They were talking about how it’s not just about earning money but also about how you manage and grow what you already have. It made me realize that wealth isn’t just about what you have now but what you can do with what you own.

I could see they were eager to learn more about the world of business and wealth. It was clear that they understood the importance of thinking beyond the immediate cash and focusing on long-term growth and opportunities. These are the kind of talks our young guys should have more than fighting to be Man United or Chelsea fans.
They shared many secrets to wealth but I'll keep some to myself 🧐

After taking a break from working out for about two weeks, I finally decided to hit the gym again. After the workout, I rewarded myself with a plate of fried rice and washed it down with a bottle of Fayrouz. Satisfied and a bit tired, I went to bed, thinking nothing of it.

The next morning, I woke up to the worst body pain I've ever felt. Every muscle in my body ached, and I could barely move. It was as if my body was punishing me for taking that long break. I tried to get up, but the pain was so intense that I ended up just lying there. I couldn’t even think about leaving the house in that condition.

By noon, the pain was still unbearable, and I hadn’t eaten anything since the fried rice the night before. Just when I thought the day couldn't get any worse, my friend showed up unexpectedly. She had bought me a Nutri Milk and a fish roll, saying she just felt like getting me something on her way over. It was like a blessing in disguise because I was starving, but too weak to make anything for myself.

As I slowly ate the fish roll and drank the Nutri Milk, I felt a bit better, both physically and mentally. The food gave me a little strength, and I was thankful for my friend's kindness. It was exactly what I needed at that moment, and I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of her timing.

By the time I finished eating, the pain was still there, but it was more manageable. I knew it would take a few days for the soreness to go away completely, but I felt more hopeful knowing I had such a thoughtful friend to help me through it.

Growing up, I had always prided myself on being the fastest runner in our neighborhood, a title I had earned through countless races against my friends, siblings, and cousins. Most evenings, we would gather in the yard, racing until the sun dipped below the horizon. I was the champion, always crossing the finish line first, my friends running behind me. I was an upcoming Usain Bolt.

However, this time was different. It was duribg inter-house competition for my SS2 class, a much bigger event that included not just my classmates but older students from SS3 set and even some from lower classes. I had talked about the big game to friends, boasting to my family about my outstanding running capabilities and how I was sure I’d bring home the trophy. I could already visualize my moment of glory, holding that trophy high above my head while my friends cheered me on.

The day of the race arrived, and as I warmed up, I felt a blend of confidence and nervous energy. I practiced with my team, strategizing how we could outpace our rivals. But as the test runs progressed, I quickly realized that things might not go as smoothly as I had imagined.

During one of our practice laps, we lined up, ready to take off. As the whistle blew, I dashed forward, ready to leave everyone in my dust. Yet, within moments, the two boys in front of me, a shorter one with surprising speed and one slim kid whose long legs seemed to propel him forward, were already miles ahead. I pushed harder, but no matter how fast I ran, they continued to widen the gap.

With every step, disappointment washed over me. I had underestimated both of them, especially the shorter boy, who was ahead as if he were a true athlete. As I watched them pull further away, the ease with which they ran remained a reminder of my overconfidence.

“Was I really that fast?” I thought, the reality settling in. I felt embarrassed and frustrated; my dreams of winning that trophy was gone in the air.
I gave up instantly on partaking in the running competition any longer and joined long jump team.

Yesterday, I finally broke free from my busy student life and put on my shoes for a Saturday jog. I had been so occupied in the previous months that I hadn’t had the chance to get outside and run, but something about yesterday filled me with determination. I decided it was time to reclaim my Saturdays.

As I approached the school stadium, I felt a familiar air that I always felt In the past.
Before, I usually ran at least 15 laps around the stadium before getting tired, but this time felt different. By the time I completed my third lap, I was already gasping for air, feeling like every pore on my body was begging for me to stop and breathe.
I continued, telling myself that it was just a matter of getting back into the swing of things.

However, on the ninth lap, I could feel my legs starting to protest angrily. I had to stop. I was out of breath and my muscles were beginning to ache.
Strangely enough, I wasn’t too disappointed. It felt as if I was re-learning how to run again after being away from the tracks for long. I reminded myself that with a little persistence, I’d soon be back to my old self, maybe even running like a pro again.

Happy Sunday!

We were outside, engrossed in a lively game of football under the pouring rain when we sensed the thunderstorm. At that point, I had already managed to score two goals, securing a solid lead for my team. Suddenly, the earth beneath our feet began to tremble and a lightning bolt struck nearby, sending a jolt of fear through our bodies.

Although we observed the lightning, we assumed it was a distant occurrence. To our astonishment, it was much closer than we had anticipated.

In a split second, we all understood the grave danger we faced and, in an instant, our amusing football game turned into a mad run for safety.

Abandoning the football and the field, we fled helter-skelter to seek refuge in different directions. Looking back, it was a funny sight to behold. Each one of us ran wildly, leaving the game behind, heading for cover. I couldn't help but ponder that it might be the last time I engage in such a wild football match under the rain.

As a youngster, I was infatuated with wrestling matches. The world of WWE and its larger-than-life characters enthralled me, and I eagerly devoured every match, buying CDs and spending a small fortune on my devotion to the sport. I was captivated by the dramatic plots, the acrobatic stunts, and what I believed were hard-hitting punches; it was my ultimate form of entertainment.

However, as I grew older, a realization slowly began to dawn on me, and it was a tough pill to swallow. I came to understand that what I had thought were bone-crushing punches were, in fact, meticulously choreographed maneuvers. The entire wrestling spectacle was meticulously planned out beforehand. It was a revelation that shook the foundations of my passion for wrestling, and I could feel my fervor fading away.

With each match, my interest steadily waned until I lost all enthusiasm for wrestling. I couldn't help but feel a tinge of pity for the younger fans who still believed in the authenticity of it all, unaware that the thunderous blows and awe-inspiring stunts were nothing more than smoke and mirrors. I longed for them to see through the manufactured ruse, to recognize that my beloved sport was more performance art than genuine competition.

Despite this disillusionment, I still maintain a respect for the wrestlers and their incredible stunts and strategizing. Their athleticism and showmanship are undeniable, and I can appreciate the talents and hard work that go into their performances. It's just that I wish others would come to see wrestling for what it truly is.
But I must add that wrestling was my favourite sports until I looked closer.

I always looked forward to Saturdays. That was the day I dedicated to my workout routine. Rain or shine, I would make my way to the stadium near my home, ready for a good jog, push-ups, and other exercises. Over time, it had become a lifestyle, and I took pride in the discipline of never missing a Saturday without going for my workout.

However, a few months back, I had to travel. I found myself in a place where there was no nearby stadium, and people rarely engaged in exercise. At first, I tried to keep up with my routine, but as the weeks went by, I started missing more and more workout days. I kept telling myself that once I returned home, I would resume my routine as usual.

But as time passed, I realized that I had slowly lost my exercise habit. The days I used to look forward to had become days of lounging around or being caught up in work. The thought of rebuilding the habit seemed daunting, and I knew it wouldn't be easy.

I missed the feeling of energy and vitality that came with my exercise routine. The strength and endurance I had built up over time were slipping away, and I could feel it in my everyday activities. The excuses I kept giving myself only made it harder to face the fact that I had let my commitment to fitness slip away.

Still, deep down, I know I need to find a way to rebuild my exercise habit. It won't be an easy task, but I want to get back to feeling strong and healthy. I'm determined to find a way to make exercise a part of my life again, no matter how challenging it may seem

It was a bright and sunny day, and my elder brother suggested that we go to the neighborhood swimming pool for some fun. I had never gone swimming before, but it looked so easy, watching others glide through the water. I was excited to give it a try.

As soon as we arrived at the pool, I couldn't wait to jump in. I watched my friends and even younger kids swimming so effortlessly, and I thought to myself, "I can do that too!" Without a second thought, I leaped into the water, creating a big splash that drew the attention of all the people around.

I tried to move my arms and legs the way I had seen others do, but I just couldn't seem to get the hang of it. I was flinging my arms back and forth, thinking I was swimming, but everyone else was just standing there, watching me and giggling.

After what felt like a long time, I finally stood up, feeling a bit embarrassed. That's when I realized that I hadn't moved at all. I had been in one spot the whole time, flapping my arms and legs, thinking I was swimming.

With time, I improved. I learnt that the legs flapped in a unique pattern while the arms stretched forward sharply and pulled back, it was called the butterfly stroke and it was slow. People who swam one sided was able to breathe above water and were also faster.

Before we left the pool, I had finally learnt two swimming skills. I needed improvement though but I knew that I would reach perfection in no time.
Happy, we left for home.

That evening, I had the pleasure of observing two old men who were clearly the best of friends, reveling in the joy of life at its fullest in the neighborhood hotel swimming pool. As they bobbed in the water, they sang old tunes, danced as if nobody was watching, and seemed to have forgotten whatever troubles they faced back at home. I couldn't help but chuckle at their antics and admire their zest for life.

It was heartwarming to witness them reliving their younger days, their laughter and jokes echoing off the pool walls. They threw stunts into the water, played a game of chase, and did all sorts of entertaining and somewhat daring activities, as if age had no dominion over them. In their shared happiness, they seemed to symbolize the true spirit of friendship and the enduring capacity for joy, no matter the years that have passed.

As I watched from the sidelines, I couldn't help but be touched by the genuine affection and camaraderie they shared. It was a sweet evening, a reminder that friendship and happiness can outlast the passage of time.

I watched a local football match in a school playing ground that was two years back 🔙 . As I sat down, I asked one of the boys what the score was.
With a smile, he replied; "They are leading us 3-0"😩😩
And I said, REALLY!!😂😂
I have to say you don't look discouräged🥺🥺
"Discouräged?" the boy asked with a puzzled look 😒😒
Why should I be discouräged when the Referee has not blown the final whistle??🌚 💁‍♂️
I have confidence in the team and the managers; We shall definitely overcome!!☺️☺️
Truly, the match ended 4-5 in favor of the boy's team!!🙂🙂
He waved at me gently, with a beautiful smile as he left; I was amazed, mouth wide open; Such confidence; Such beautiful faith🙇‍♂️🙇‍♂️
As I got back home that night, his question kept coming back to me😤😤
"Why should I be discouräged when the referee has not blown the final whistle?"
Life is like a game🥺🥺
Why should you be discouräged when The Almighty God is your manager??🌚💁‍♂️ Why should you be discouräged, when there's still life??😒😒Why should you be discouräged when your final whistle has not sounded??🙃🙃The truth is that many People Blow the final whistle themselves🙂🙂
But as long as there is life, nothing is impossible and it is never too late for you🥰🥰
Half time is not full time and HIS calendar for your life is not man's calendar😇😇
Don't blow the whistle yourself☺️☺️
BE ENCOURAGED! DON'T GIVE UP🙏🙏
With God all things are still possible!"🥳🥳
Everyday is a fresh start with potentials🥴🥴keep the Faith 🙏🙏
keep on believing in God 🙇‍♂️🙇‍♂️
Never over until God the Referee of all referees says it is over🙃🙃
Enjoy your day and God Bless.

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I watched a local football match in a school playing ground that was two years back 🔙 . As I sat down, I asked one of the boys what the score was.
With a smile, he replied; "They are leading us 3-0"😩😩
And I said, REALLY!!😂😂
I have to say you don't look discouräged🥺🥺
"Discouräged?" the boy asked with a puzzled look 😒😒
Why should I be discouräged when the Referee has not blown the final whistle??🌚 💁‍♂️
I have confidence in the team and the managers; We shall definitely overcome!!☺️☺️
Truly, the match ended 4-5 in favor of the boy's team!!🙂🙂
He waved at me gently, with a beautiful smile as he left; I was amazed, mouth wide open; Such confidence; Such beautiful faith🙇‍♂️🙇‍♂️
As I got back home that night, his question kept coming back to me😤😤
"Why should I be discouräged when the referee has not blown the final whistle?"
Life is like a game🥺🥺
Why should you be discouräged when The Almighty God is your manager??🌚💁‍♂️ Why should you be discouräged, when there's still life??😒😒Why should you be discouräged when your final whistle has not sounded??🙃🙃The truth is that many People Blow the final whistle themselves🙂🙂
But as long as there is life, nothing is impossible and it is never too late for you🥰🥰
Half time is not full time and HIS calendar for your life is not man's calendar😇😇
Don't blow the whistle yourself☺️☺️
BE ENCOURAGED! DON'T GIVE UP🙏🙏
With God all things are still possible!"🥳🥳
Everyday is a fresh start with potentials🥴🥴keep the Faith 🙏🙏
keep on believing in God 🙇‍♂️🙇‍♂️
Never over until God the Referee of all referees says it is over🙃🙃
Enjoy your day and God Bless.

The air in "Sam Soap's Viewing Centre" in Makurdi vibrated long after the final whistle blew on Man United and Spurs. Sweat stuck to foreheads, clenched fists hung stiffly in the air, and the stale smoke of cigarettes and frustration lingered. The match, a rollercoaster of missed chances and equalising goals, had left its mark.

Philip, draped in his United jersey, eyes as red as the club's colours, stamped on the dusty floor. "Rashford! How? How he miss that, ehn?!" His voice, booming across the room, silenced the groans from the Spurs supporters huddled in the corner.

Agada, decked in Tottenham white, his nose wrinkled in annoyance, retorted, "You talk as if United did anything all game! Bentancur's rocket was pure fire, eh!"

And so it began, the familiar dance of banter turning into a heated debate. Statistics were thrown around like verbal grenades, refereeing decisions dissected with venomous precision, players' mothers dragged into the fray. Philip's voice grew hoarse, Agada's face contorted with righteous fury. The screen, once displaying the Premier League logo, seemed to shrink in the face of their animosity.

Across the room, Madam Cash, wiping down sticky tables with a sigh, watched the scene unfold. She'd seen it countless times before – friendships strained, tempers flaring, all over a ball kicked around by millionaires in faraway stadiums.

It wasn't the passion that bothered her, Madam Cash loved football herself. It was the blindness, the inability to see past club colours and into the shared humanity on the other side. Here, in her dimly lit viewing centre, the lines between United and Spurs, Liverpool and Chelsea, faded away. They were all Makurdi boys, struggling with the same tough times, hustling for the same Naira, laughing at the same jokes.

Finally, Madam Cash had enough. "Enough!" she boomed, her voice a clap of thunder in the smoky air. Both Philip and Agada looked at her, startled. "This game is over, but your lives go on," she continued, her gaze sweeping across the room. "Is a goal worth losing a friend, a neighbour? This football, it should bring us together, not tear us apart."

Her words hung in the air, heavy with truth. Philip shuffled his feet, shamefaced. Agada offered a hesitant smile. Slowly, the tension subsided, replaced by a grudging respect.

Later, as the crowd thinned, Philip approached Madam Cash. "She was a beauty, that Bentancur shot," he admitted, a sheepish grin on his face. Agada chuckled and slapped him on the back. "Don't tell your boys that, eh?"

That night, in Sam Soap's Viewing Centre, the football didn't disappear. But amidst the cheers and banter, a new understanding flickered. They were still fans, still passionate, but they were also neighbours, friends, Makurdi boys sharing a love for the beautiful game. And maybe, just maybe, that love was bigger than any rivalry.

Because in the end, it wasn't about who won or lost on the pitch. It was about who we were off it. And on a dusty Sunday night in Makurdi, Madam Cash reminded them and infact all of us, that sometimes, the most important match happens not on the green field, but right here, in the shared space of our lives.

Honestly, I use to argue a lot about football but yesterday's experience has changed that side of me. For good I guess.

my return to the football field after a hiatus of seven long years. The day started with a mix of excitement and nervousness coursing through my veins as I gathered with my fellow mates for a practice session.

As I laced up my boots, memories of my previous football days flooded my mind, giving me a sense of nostalgia and anticipation. Yet, there was a lingering doubt lingering within me. Would I be able to keep up with the others? Would my skills have rusted away in my absence from the beautiful game?

My worries were not unfounded, for as soon as we began the session, I quickly realized just how rusty I truly was. My first touch of the ball was an awkward stumble, and my passes were woefully off target. It seemed as though my limbs were disconnected from my brain, each movement lacking grace and precision.

My lackluster performance did not go unnoticed by my teammates, who took the opportunity to mock and tease me mercilessly. They jeered and laughed, their unrelenting jibes piercing through my already fragile confidence. The pain of their taunts only fueled my determination to prove them wrong.

With each passing practice, however, I noticed a glimmer of improvement. The muscle memory slowly returned, and my coordination began to resurface. I dedicated myself to long hours of extra practice, honing my technique and stamina. Gradually, I started to regain my touch and find my place on the field.

Then, on that glorious day, it happened. During a practice match, an opportunity presented itself, and I seized it with all the desperation and drive I possessed. The ball soared towards me, and with a flick of my foot, it sailed into the goal, much to the astonishment of my teammates.

In that moment, a surge of joy and pride enveloped me. The years of absence had been worth it for this one glorious moment. The disbelief on my teammates' faces turned to genuine respect, and I couldn't help but bask in their accolades. The feeling of scoring that goal, the rush of adrenaline, made all the struggles and doubts melt away.