London to Lagos: Nigerian cyclist begins 10,000km Polio awareness ride

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By Chioma Obinna

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Six years after Nigeria was declared free of wild poliovirus, the battle to eradicate polio globally is still far from over. Sustaining that historic achievement requires constant vigilance, stronger immunisation efforts, and continued public awareness to ensure no child is left vulnerable.

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Driven by that mission, Captain Olatunji Emmanuel Okedeyi has embarked on an extraordinary cycling expedition from London to Lagos aimed at raising awareness and support for the global fight against polio.

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Covering more than 10,000 kilometres across two continents, the journey is far more than a test of physical endurance. Every mile pedalled represents a call to action, a reminder that the gains made against polio must never be taken for granted.

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Travelling through 13 countries, battling harsh weather, difficult terrain, and weeks of mental and physical strain on the road, Cpt. Okedeyi hopes to inspire governments, communities, and global health advocates to sustain efforts toward a polio-free world.

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The journey began in London, United Kingdom, and will end in Lagos, Nigeria, with his arrival scheduled for July 7, 2026.

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His European route covers the United Kingdom, France, and Spain, before continuing through Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, and Benin in Africa.
A formal fundraising handover ceremony is expected to take place on August 1, 2026, during Cpt. Okedeyi’s investiture ceremony.

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Beyond raising awareness about polio eradication, the initiative also promotes the idea that health can serve as a bridge for peace and unity. By advocating for the protection of vulnerable children across underserved communities and encouraging cross-border collaboration, the mission seeks to reinforce global solidarity in the final push to consign polio to history.

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Nigeria was officially certified free of wild poliovirus in 2020, a milestone widely celebrated across Africa and the global health community.

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Meanwhile, public health experts have warned that until polio is eradicated everywhere, children everywhere remain at risk.

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