Wellness, Community & Impact: A Look Back at Our Hiking Retreat in Minna

At Benzone Development Foundation, we believe that transformation happens when people connect — with themselves, with others and with nature.

On June 14, 2025, we brought that belief to life during our Hiking & Wellness Retreat at Murtala Park, Minna, Niger State. More than just a trek, this retreat was a celebration of mental well-being, physical health and human connection. And it’s just the beginning of what we hope will be a growing movement for community wellness across Nigeria.

A Day of Purpose and Positivity

Picture it: A fresh, dewy morning, rolling green hills, and the sound of laughter as volunteers and local participants gathered at Murtala Park.

Led by our incredible team — Haruna Chapa, Dauda Vatsa, Faiza Ibrahim, Sadiq Bababubu, Abdul Muh’d, and Hamida Bala — we set out on a trail filled with intention, challenge and joy.

From the first step to the final summit, every moment was designed to:

• Encourage physical fitness
• Ease mental stress
• Deepen our connection to nature
• Strengthen social bonds
• Spark personal discovery

“It was tough but so worth it! I feel stronger, happier and more connected to nature.” -Retreat participant.

Why We Did It

Our Hiking & Wellness Retreat aimed to:

• Promote health and fitness through group hiking
• Provide a mental break from daily stress
• Build community spirit among participants
• Teach resilience and self-reliance through outdoor activity
  

With support from donors and volunteers, we made this event free and accessible — proving that wellness can (and should) be for everyone.

🔗 Click here to donate or sponsor the next retreat

 Behind the Scenes: How We Made It Happen

Pulling off a retreat like this takes more than enthusiasm. It takes strategy, teamwork, and a shared belief in the cause.

Here’s how we did it:

• Transportation to and from Murtala Park
• Food & drinks to fuel the journey
• Documentation with notebooks, phones, and cameras
• Mobile coordination for real-time safety and updates
• Souvenirs and emergency supplies to add value and security
  

Despite a rainy morning and a few health hiccups, we adjusted, adapted and kept moving — together.

The Impact Was Real

Here’s what this one-day event achieved:

• Improved physical health: Participants walked, stretched and climbed, boosting their strength and endurance.
• Enhanced mental well-being: Surrounded by nature, people reconnected with themselves and others.
• Confidence and joy: Conquering the hike gave everyone a boost of self-esteem.
• New friendships and skills: Many learned trail navigation and outdoor resilience.
  

And most importantly — they asked for more.

Voices of Transformation

“I met amazing people and made memories with friends I’ll never forget.” — Participant. 

“The peaceful environment helped me reset. I really needed this.” — Volunteer.

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What We Learned and How We’ll Grow

While the event was a success, it came with challenges:

• Heavy rain tested our logistics
• Health preparedness needs to be stronger in future events
  

We’re already planning improvements — better health screening, extra equipment, more training — so future retreats are safer and more scalable.

📩 Sponsor medical kits, gear, or meals – Click here to get involved

What’s Next?

We’re turning momentum into a movement.

Plans are underway to:

• Host more retreats across Niger State
• Engage local communities through awareness and education
• Partner with government and private organizations to scale our reach
• Add new wellness experiences like guided meditation, stress relief workshops, and more
  

Join Us in Building a Healthier Future

This retreat was just the beginning. With your help, we can:

• Reach more underserved communities
  
• Empower people with the tools for a healthy life
  
• Create unforgettable experiences that build resilience and joy
  

🔗 Donate | Sponsor | Volunteer – Click here to be part of it

Let’s Walk This Path Together

Whether you’re an individual, a donor, a fitness enthusiast or a brand that believes in community wellness — there’s a place for you on this journey.

📲 Stay connected:

• Instagram: @benzonefoundation
  
• Facebook: @benzonefoundation
  
• TikTok: @benzonefoundation
  
• Email: inquiries@benzonefoundation.com
  
• WhatsApp: +44 7388 178812
  

Benzone Development Foundation

Empowering minds, bodies, and communities — one step at a time.