On January 31, 2024, Pelumi Nubi, a Nigerian solo traveller and content creator, embarked on a historic road trip from her second home in London, United Kingdom, to her first home in Lagos, Nigeria.
In a world where women are often discouraged from traveling alone due to concerns about sexual harassment and security, the 29-year-old explorer, who has visited about 80 countries, was determined to change this negative perception.
Driving in her mini Peugeot car, Nubi embarked on a quest never attempted by a woman. Her goal was to show all women that such journeys are achievable.
“It was just important for me to do this and to inspire all the black women, all the travellers that they can step out of their comfort zone,” Nubi said to The Record.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including a car crash and being detained at the Sierra Leone border for two days, Pelumi Nubi successfully completed her 68-day solo journey, making history by arriving in Lagos, Nigeria on April 7, 2024.
Welcome Party in Lagos
During the welcome ceremony at the University of Lagos on Sunday, Dr. Newton Jibunoh, a renowned environmentalist and the first man to solo drive from London to Lagos in the 1960s, praised Nubi’s journey in his speech.
“Think outside the box, leave your comfort zone behind, and face your endurance because in testing your endurance, you become an inventor,” Jibunoh advised other Nigerians who might consider attempting such a feat.
Nubi’s journey inspired many women, including Seyisala Ogbonna, an actor who had been following Nubi’s journey on social media.
“Pelumi’s story is a motivation for every woman out there. Whatever you set your mind to do, you will achieve it, irrespective of the challenges,” Ogbonna shared with The Record.
“What a man can do, a woman can do better. We are equal; there is no difference between you and a man. Women, let’s step up and do it. This is encouraging; I appreciate her,” another well-wisher, Mrs. Rita Ekpu stated.
Pelumi Nubi’s next step
During the press briefing with reporters at the welcome ceremony on Sunday, Nubi was asked about her next step after achieving this milestone.
“It’s definitely something I’m going to continue to do; I’m not going to stop suddenly. I want to continue to inspire the younger generation,” said the travel content creator.
She also mentioned her intention to advocate for policy changes, especially regarding border control, to ensure that Africa becomes a freer continent to travel through and explore.