Gov Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State (R) presents a customised Car Plate Number to Pelumi Nubi during the Governor's meeting with Nubi at the Lagos House, Marina, Nigeria, April 8, 2024. (News Agency of Nigeria/Handout via Xinhua)
by Olatunji Saliu
ABUJA, April 9 (Xinhua) -- Pelumi Nubi arrived Sunday afternoon at the terminal point of her epic 68-day solo road trip from London to Lagos, in Nigeria's southwest region, greeted by the warm embrace of family, friends, government officials and admirers -- marking the end of an adventure that transcended boundaries and inspired hearts.
The 28-year-old globetrotter and travel content creator on Jan. 30 embarked on a quest of a lifetime, traversing vast distances and diverse landscapes, all behind the wheel of her trusty vehicle, or "travel buddy," which she calls "Lumi, The Car."
Charting her course through 17 countries, navigating through challenges, triumphs and unforgettable moments of discovery, Nubi said her solo road trip was not merely a physical expedition but a testament to the power of passion, perseverance and the relentless pursuit of dreams.
"I feel so good to be home. Honestly, the homecoming has been so amazing and really welcoming," she said, acknowledging cheers from a crowd of admirers and well-wishers who gathered for a carnival-like homecoming celebration.
Despite encountering obstacles, including a harrowing accident in an undisclosed location in late March, with severe damage to the front bumper and a shattered windscreen of "Lumi, The Car," Nubi remained undeterred, drawing strength from her determination and resilience.
Her unwavering spirit propelled her forward, fueling her belief that "adventure awaits those bold enough to seek it." Dubbed "the first black woman to solo drive," Nubi as a dauntless traveler attracted mere accolades, embodying the spirit of empowerment and possibility.
Her parents said they approved of the solo road trip because she had been exhibiting courage since 2016, and had already visited over 80 countries before embarking on the latest adventure in January. In the words of Timothy Nubi, her father, the avid globetrotter's arrival marked "the end of anxiety for the family," saying the solo travel was rather a nightmare for her relatives.
"Every night we could not sleep. So, it has been two months of fun for the whole world but not for us," Timothy told the media.
On Sunday evening, the Lagos state government announced Nubi as its ambassador while presenting her with a brand new Chinese-brand GAC car and a new home as gifts. Nubi has donated "Lumi, The Car" to a tourism facility in Lagos.
"This solo drive has shown that it is possible; anything and everything you want is possible," she told the media Sunday, noting along the way, she carved a path of courage, leaving behind a legacy that resonated far beyond the miles she traveled.
"You can do it, so go after it with all you have got, with all your energy, with all your life," Nubi said. ■
Pelumi Nubi poses with her brand new Chinese-brand GAC car presented from Gov Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State during visit to the Governor at the Lagos House, Marina, Nigeria, April 8, 2024. (News Agency of Nigeria/Handout via Xinhua)