I’m from Damboa, a small town near Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. My life took a drastic turn in 2014 when Boko Haram attacked my community. I was born with a physical disability, and I had to rely on the kindness of others to get by. But that fateful day changed everything.
The attack was sudden and brutal. Boko Haram fighters stormed our town, killing and maiming anyone in their path. I was lucky to escape with my life, but my home and livelihood were destroyed. I had to flee, leaving behind everything I had ever known.
The journey to Maiduguri was arduous. I rode my tricycle for 86 kilometres, avoiding the highway and navigating through rough terrain. I was in pain and exhausted, but I had to keep moving. I couldn’t stay in Damboa; it wasn’t safe. When I finally arrived in Maiduguri, I was demoralised and broken.
The Boko Haram insurgency has had a profound impact on my life. I’ve lost my home, my family, and my livelihood. I’ve had to start over from scratch, and it’s been a struggle. But I’m determined to rebuild my life and make a living.
As a displaced person, I’ve faced many challenges. I’ve had to deal with the trauma of being a victim of Boko Haram’s brutality. I’ve had to learn to navigate a new environment and find new ways to make a living. But I’m determined to make the most of my situation. I’ve started a new business as a shoemaker, and I’m working hard to provide for myself.
Despite the challenges, I’m grateful for the support I’ve received. Organisations like Plan International have provided me with the skills and resources I need to rebuild my life. I’ve also received support from my community, which has been a source of strength and comfort.
The Boko Haram insurgency has had a devastating impact on many lives. Many people have been displaced, and many more have lost loved ones. But I believe that with the right support and opportunities, people can rebuild their lives and thrive. I appeal to the government and humanitarian organisations to provide more support to people affected by the insurgency.
I’ve found a new purpose in life, and I’m determined to make the most of it. I’m proud to be a survivor of Boko Haram’s brutality, and I’m grateful for the second chance I’ve been given.
I’ve been affected by Boko Haram’s brutality, but I refuse to let it define me. I’m taking control of my life, and I’m working towards a brighter future. I hope that my story will inspire others to do the same. We may have been affected by Boko Haram, but we are not defined by it. We are survivors, and we will rebuild our lives and our communities.
As narrated by: Ngari Aji (Maiduguri, Nigeria).
This snippet is published as part of a series, The Day Boko Haram Attacked.
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