On January 30th, 2024, Pelumi Nubi, a Nigerian-born adventurer, embarked on an unprecedented journey, driving solo from London to Lagos. Covering a distance of approximately 3,119.56 miles (5,020.45 km), her two-month and eight-day odyssey captured global attention.
According to the route planner, the distance from London to Lagos is about 3,119.56 miles (5,020.45 km) with a driving route of 4,188.76 mi (6,741.16 km).
Setting off from London in her Peugeot sports car with registration number DY62FDM, Nubi defied convention and embraced the challenge of traversing multiple countries to reach her destination in Nigeria.
“Daddy! Mummy! I did it!!!! I solo drove from London to Lagos,” she said shortly after she touched down in Nigeria.
Pelumi said her idea when sold to her mother at the genesis, sounded weird but her parent poured their blessings.
“I’ll never forget the look on mummy’s face when I first shared my crazy idea with her a year ago. Oh, the typical African mother reaction!
“Thank you, Lord, for blessing me with the most supportive parents and family. Your approval and encouragement meant everything to me, and I’m forever grateful,” she expressed.
The feat, however, has attracted accolades and praises, including the Governor of Lagos State Babajide Sanwo-Olu who has decorated her with a brand new car with a customized plate number; appointed her as Lagos State Tourism Ambassador, and as well as to take care of her entire journey expenses.
“Every journey starts with a single step, and @peluminubi‘s step from London to Lagos by road is nothing short of inspirational. It’s a pleasure to congratulate Pelumi, now a Lagos Tourism Ambassador, whose resilience, positive energy, and unwavering spirit are truly worth emulating. A heartfelt thank you to her parents for nurturing such a remarkable soul,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said on his official X (former Twitter) handle.
He pledged: “In recognition of her incredible feat, the State will take over her entire bill for the trip, she has also received a brand new car and an apartment in Lagos, ensuring her journey continues on a path of success.”
Nubi, who completed her solo road trip from London, United Kingdom, to Lagos, Nigeria on Sunday was received at the Nigeria-Benin Republic border on behalf of Lagos State Government by the State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, and the Special Adviser, Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe.
Despite facing challenges, including accidents and vehicle breakdowns along the way, Nubi remained undeterred in her quest to make history. Her determination and perseverance earned her recognition not only from the government but also from admirers worldwide.
Meanwhile, she has pledged to donate her damaged car she calls “Lumi” to the Lagos State Museum for remembrance.
On January 30th, 2024, Nigerian-born adventurer Pelumi Nubi began a solo drive from London to Lagos, covering approximately 3,119.56 miles (5,020.45 km) over two months and eight days. Her journey, which she undertook in a Peugeot sports car, generated global interest.
Despite initial skepticism from her family, Nubi's parents ultimately supported her endeavor. Her successful completion of the trip earned her significant recognition, including accolades from the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. She was appointed as Lagos State Tourism Ambassador, was provided with a brand-new car, and had all travel expenses covered by the state. Additionally, she received an apartment in Lagos.
Nubi faced numerous challenges, including accidents and vehicle breakdowns, but her perseverance garnered admiration worldwide. Upon arriving in Nigeria, she pledged to donate her car, nicknamed “Lumi,” to the Lagos State Museum.
