By Abu Razack Gbla
Nigerian long-distance cyclist Emmanuel Myam, popularly known as Emmiwuks, received a massive welcome in Sierra Leone yesterday evening as he made his way through the city of Bo on his humanitarian journey from Lagos to the United States of America.
The warm reception was coordinated with the support of All People’s Congress (APC) leading flagbearer aspirant, Lawyer Ady Macauley, and his close associate, Dr. Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary / Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers Council. Dr. Akutah, who is also a long time friend of Macauley, had requested his intervention to ensure the cyclist was given full support while passing through Sierra Leone.
From Gendema to Bo town, Emmiwuks was met with cheering crowds and joined by members of the Sierra Leone Cycling Association, who rode alongside him in solidarity. Representing Ady Macauley, former Commissioner Alhaji Musa Dauda welcomed the cyclist, praising him for his determination to place Africa on the global map. He further thanked him for including Sierra Leone in his journey and assured him of continued support from the country.
Comrade (Engr.) Atir Solomon Faeren, Principal Private Adviser to the ES/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council; the Founder of APC Youth League – Nigeria and a very Senior Leader of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Good Governance Group who led the Nigerian delegation, thanked Ade Macauley for the warm welcome extended to their brother. He conveyed the appreciation of their father and leader Sen. Dr. George Akume CON. who sent in personal massages and on behalf of the Government of Nigeria. He also expressed admiration for the overwhelming support Sierra Leoneans have shown to the cyclist and promised that the strong relationship between them will continue
At just 25 years old, Emmiwuks has embarked on a solo bicycle expedition covering an estimated 8,500 kilometers, which he describes as a mission of “purpose, passion, and unshakable belief.” His goal is to raise awareness and mobilize support for orphaned, displaced, and vulnerable children across Africa who suffer the effects of conflict and instability.
Beginning his journey on Tuesday at the Lagos State University (LASU) gate, the Benue State native plans to cross some of Africa’s toughest terrains, including the Sahara Desert and volatile conflict zones, before shipping his bicycle across the Atlantic Ocean. From there, he intends to resume his ride through South and Central America into the United States.
“This ride isn’t just about me,” Emmiwuks said in a recent statement. “It’s about resilience, hope, and giving vulnerable kids a future. Every mile I pedal represents the strength these children show every day.”
From Humble Beginnings to Global Mission
Emmiwuks’ story is rooted in resilience and personal transformation. After surviving a near-fatal appendicitis in 2023, he embraced cycling as a tool for advocacy. His passion first drew attention in 2022 when he cycled from Makurdi to Lagos in 15 days to meet Nigerian musician Davido.
Growing up with limited means, he once worked menial jobs, including as a crane motor boy earning ₦15,000 a month, which he saved to buy and restore a broken bicycle frame. That moment, he says, ignited a lifelong mission that has now evolved into a transcontinental journey of purpose.
His daring adventure follows in the footsteps of other Nigerian endurance travelers, including Kunle Adeyanju, who rode a motorbike from London to Lagos in 2022 to raise funds for polio eradication, and Pelumi Nubi, who drove solo from London to Lagos in 2024.
Sierra Leone’s Role in the Journey
For Sierra Leone, hosting Emmiwuks was not just about cheering a cyclist but also about standing with his cause. Local supporters expressed pride that the country featured in his remarkable odyssey.
As Emmiwuks continues his journey northward, his message remains clear: shining a global spotlight on the plight of Africa’s most vulnerable children while inspiring resilience and hope across borders.
The delegation with includes Comr Atir Solomon Faeren, Yev Henry Luter – Baba Yev and Ugbaa Handsome- Omo Benue from Nigeria were also given a wonderful welcome.
