Upon returning to the hospital ward, Hamza found his sister lying on his bed. He leaned down and gently kissed her forehead, waking her from her slumber. She stirred and, upon seeing her brother, sat up, blinking sleepily. She said, "I waited for you and didn't see you, so I fell asleep." Hamza nodded and proceeded to share what he had discussed with Major Abdullahi, leaving out whether he had accepted the offer. He also asked for her opinion.
His sister looked at him, tears glistening in her eyes, and hugged him tightly. She said, "As long as you're with me, I'll go wherever you go." Hamza nodded in agreement, feeling a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility.
The night passed quickly, filled with a mixture of emotions and anticipation for the new chapter in their lives.
The next morning, they were provided with decent clothes to wear before being transported to the Muna IDP camp. They arrived around 10 a.m., greeted by the usual scorching sun. However, the atmosphere seemed more cheerful than usual. At noon, a convoy arrived, a combination of police and military officers. They set up a canopy, and everyone gathered for the ceremony.
Opening speeches were given, followed by promises of support. This time, there was a surprise—scholarships were awarded to those who had been kidnapped by Boko Haram, and empowerment packages worth up to fifty thousand nairas were distributed to the parents and others in the camp. The impending elections seemed to be a driving force behind these actions. After the ceremonies concluded, they returned to the base in a military vehicle.
Major Abdullahi summoned both Hamza and his sister to his office. He asked for various documents, including their birth certificates and school certificates. He also offered advice, warning Hamza about the allure of extravagance in Lagos and the dangers of getting involved in drugs. He made it clear that any involvement in drugs would be met with serious consequences. Hamza assured him that he would remain focused and make the most of this opportunity.
Another week passed in a flash, during which Hamza continued to train his vocals and increase his Performance Points (PP).
Then came the day when Major Abdullahi called Hamza into his office and delivered the news: "You will be leaving for Lagos tomorrow." Overwhelmed with gratitude, Hamza couldn't hold back his tears as he replied, "Thank you, sir, I appreciate it." Major Abdullahi simply nodded, acknowledging the profound impact of this opportunity.
After Hamza left, Major Abdullahi picked up his phone and made a call to someone. They exchanged pleasantries, and Major Abdullahi said, "So, do you want to hear some good news?" The person on the other end sounded excited and replied, "I'm fine, thank you. What good news do you have?" Major Abdullahi chuckled and said, "Yes, they will both arrive in Lagos tomorrow. Please remember that the children coming over are very special to me, especially that boy. I owe him, so take good care of them." The person on the other end responded with determination, "Brother, you know how much my wife and I need this opportunity, and you have our word that we will take excellent care of them." Major Abdullahi expressed his gratitude and then ended the call, confident that Hamza and his sister were in good hands.