My final six weeks in Nigeria was undoubtedly the craziest time of my life. There was so much to do and a huge desire not to leave anything undone.
On the work front – we got a great contribution from Irish Aid for library books. It really boosted the collection and gave the space a ‘proper library’ feel. Then we needed to make more bookshelves and reorganise the library layout. Having to spend a bunch of money in a limited time would normally be something I love! However, it can often be difficult to get hold of unessential items in a hurry, thus hindering my splurge. However, great shopper that I am, I battled on. Buying books, making furniture, stocking up on stationery, photocopying left right and centre, collecting scrap paper… We also held our last staff training sessions which was great – some repeat attendees were able to help out their newer colleagues which was heart-warming. As usual in the midst of the ‘wahalla’ (great Nigerian word for mayhem) there was plenty of laughs.
On the fun front – there was lots of it! My last few weekends were a riot. From the last Minna gathering to the Dutch celebration of Queens Day to the housewarming of a friend. My exhaustion was largely self-induced. Best of all were my sendforths. I had my colleagues to dinner – about 20 people – which was a wonderful whirlwind of people and food. My brave colleagues tasted (and obliterated) the food I prepared. My kind neighbours supplemented my plates & cutlery when all possible alternatives were gone. The compound kids carried and carted with huge grins on their faces. And then my colleagues held a sendforth for me. The week before I had been summarily summoned to accompany the admin gals to the tailor. I was promptly measured and then sent back to sit in the car as the ladies huddled up to agree the finer details of the purchase. The sendforth coincided with my line manager’s last visit to Minna, and so she sat beside me at the High Table and smiled for all (the many) photographs. It was a really lovely (and little bit emotional) day.
