Twenty-eight-year-old Pelumi Nubi, who embarked on solo road trip from London to Lagos, has said the accident she had in Ivory Coast, on the trip didn’t deter her from continuing.

She said it was important for her to continue as she doesn’t want to give the impression that things were impossible.

Speaking on Sunday at a reception organised in her honour by Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, on campus in Akoka, Lagos, Pelumi, who is the daughter of Prof. Timothy Nubi, a lecturer in the institution, noted that it was important to inspire all black women and travellers that they can step out of their comfort zones too.

She said: “It was important for me to continue. I was trying to prove that it was possible, but if I gave up I would be sending a message that things are impossible.So with the E-community supporting me, it was important for me to just continue to explore.”

Pelumi who had begun her journey on January 31,2024, arrived Lagos on Sunday, April 7.

She said on of the most difficult moments on her trip was when she stayed in Liberia for two nights.

“One of the most difficult moments was staying in Liberia border for two nights. It was two nights in Liberia. But in terms of the challenges, definitely being a woman, being alone. Just really finding myself having to navigate this thing,” she said.

Pelumi noted that the desire to explore two cities, London and Lagos, she considered as home made her embark on the journey. She said she had to consider her health at some point.

“So definitely I just listened to my body. Some days I drove for 10 hours, some days I drove only one hour. Some places I did not drive at all. So really understanding what my body needs especially as a woman you know, we have a monthly time so it was important to know when I’m tired and I’m exhausted. I take extra break,” she added.

Ogunsola, described Pelumi as a “woman with an indomitable spirit”. She lauded her bravery, courage and resilience, while describing Nigerians as courageous people.

“I want all of us to imitate her. There is nothing you cannot do, all that can stop you is your mind. Queen Amina of Zaria took to war and conquered,” she added.

Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) Hon. Abike Dabiri, said Pelumi embodies the Nigerian spirit.

“She has shown that she is truly Nigerian, energetic, determined and resilient. Continue to explore. We will continue to encourage her. She has put her name and Nigeria’s on the world map,” she said.

Renowned Desert traveller and environmental ambassador, Mr. Newton Jibunoh, advised youths to leave their comfort zones, adding that barriers can only be broken through exploration. (The Nation)

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