In January 2019, I met Alex in Abuja during NYSC, at a general CDS meeting. Interestingly, I did not plan to go. It was one of those ‘compulsory’ general CDS in Kubwa, and I just didn’t want to make that journey. My dad had his driver take a friend and I there and pick us up afterward. (Shoutout to my dad for unknowingly playing matchmaker.)

At the time, we all had to take attendance before leaving the premises. Once that was done, my friend and I found a quiet corner of the hall to sit while we waited for my dad’s driver. I was completely exhausted, glued to my phone, and counting down the minutes until I could go home. Then my friend casually said, “I think someone is about to come and meet you.” I looked up, didn’t notice anyone, and went right back to my phone.

A few moments later… He walked over, introduced himself, and we had a brief conversation before he asked for my number. I gave it to him, thinking it was just another random NYSC interaction. Well… it turns out it wasn’t so random after all. And the rest, as they say, is history.