What’s more Nigerian than gathering with old friends and family, laughing over long-forgotten jokes, and reminiscing about the good old days?
That’s exactly what happened on a recent trip to Jalingo, Taraba State, where I, my team at IBI Foundry, and some special friends - Soctsi Kifasi, Lenaphee John, Darry Gladson, Mubarak, and a few others - created unforgettable memories.
There’s something uniquely beautiful about Nigerian gatherings. The mix of excitement, nostalgia, and unfiltered fun makes every reunion memorable. And this one?
This one was special.
It was a wedding that brought us together on Friday, December 20, 2024, in Jalingo, Taraba State.
It wasn’t just any wedding - it was a moment to reconnect with dear friends and family, share laughter, and make memories that would last a lifetime.
So, grab a chair and a plate of jollof rice (because you know this story will involve that iconic dish), and let me take you on a journey of love, friendship, and unforgettable moments.
The Journey Begins - Meeting My Nigerian Friends
It all started on Friday, the day before the wedding. My brother, Mubarak (aka Mubaze), traveled by road all the way from Yola, Adamawa State to Jalingo.
Mubarak wasn’t just coming for the wedding; his presence meant so much more - a chance to catch up and bond after a long time apart.
When Mubarak arrived with his brother, Lenaphee John, we were so excited. The moment they stepped out of the car park, it was all smiles and hugs. We picked them up and brought them to the spot we’d arranged for their stay.
That night was pure vibes.
We sat together, sharing stories, reminiscing about old times, and laughing so hard that our cheeks hurt. It felt like the kind of evening you’d want to bottle up and keep forever.
As the night wore on, everyone finally settled down to rest - ready for the big day ahead.
The Wedding Day
Saturday morning came, and the air was filled with excitement. I left home early, eager to meet Mubarak and the gang.
We got ready, polished our looks (because you know Nigerian weddings are a fashion parade), and headed to the wedding venue.
The ceremony was everything you’d expect from a typical Nigerian wedding - colorful, lively, and packed with energy. From the exchange of vows to the joyful cheers of family and friends, it was a day filled with love and celebration.
And of course, no Nigerian wedding is complete without plenty of jollof rice. Plates were loaded, conversations flowed, and we soaked in the festive atmosphere.
Capturing the Moment
After the wedding, a thought hit me: When next will we all be together like this? I couldn’t let the moment pass without capturing it.
“Let’s snap!” I said.
The room instantly buzzed with agreement. Everyone was like, “Omo, thank God you remembered!” It felt like we all understood the significance of that moment. So, we gathered, posed, and snapped away, immortalizing our time together in photos.
That was the cherry on top of an already amazing day.
Sunday: Goodbyes and Reflections
The next day, it was time to say goodbye. We took Mubarak back to the car park for his return trip to Yola. As we waved him off, it hit me just how precious the weekend had been.
In those few days, we shared something magical - a reminder of the power of friendship and family, the joy of reconnecting, and the importance of making time for the people who matter most.
Why This Story Matters
This wasn’t just a wedding. It was a reunion, a celebration, and a reminder of the beauty of Nigerian gatherings. It’s moments like these that make life meaningful.
For me, seeing Soctsis Kifasi, Lenaphee John, and Mubarak again after so long was priceless. In a world where we often get caught up in the hustle, it’s these connections that ground us.
Until the Next Time
I don’t know when we’ll all get together again, but one thing is certain—this weekend will remain etched in our hearts forever.
And the photos? They’ll serve as a reminder of the joy, laughter, and love we shared.
To my friends and family, thank you for making this weekend unforgettable.
And to anyone reading this, let this story inspire you to reach out to your people. Organize a get-together, attend that wedding, or simply say hello to a long-lost friend. You never know when your next unforgettable moment will happen.
Simon Taki Zaku,
Founder, CEO, IBIFoundry
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