Nigerian Cyclist Emmiwuks Reaches Cotonou On Epic Lagos-to-US Journey.
Emmanuel Myam, popularly known as Emmiwuks, has arrived in Cotonou, Benin Republic, on the fifth day of his audacious solo bicycle journey from Lagos, Nigeria, to the United States. The 25-year-old cyclist, who began his trip from the Lagos State University gate on 30 June 2025, is pedalling to raise funds and awareness for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and orphaned children across Africa. His arrival in Cotonou, announced via Instagram on 4 July 2025, was met with widespread admiration for his resilience and purpose-driven mission.
Emmiwuks, a Benue State native now based in Lagos, gained prominence in 2022 after cycling from Makurdi to Lagos to meet Afrobeats star Davido, a 15-day journey that showcased his determination. This time, his ambitious Lagos-to-US ride, dubbed “NIG2USA,” covers an estimated 5,327 miles (8,573 kilometres), navigating challenging terrains like the Sahara Desert and conflict zones in Africa. The journey involves shipping his bicycle across the Atlantic, likely to South America, before continuing through Central America to the US. Despite obstacles such as scorching heat, rain, and logistical challenges like visa requirements and security risks, Emmiwuks remains undeterred, sharing updates of his progress on social media.
On Instagram, Emmiwuks expressed gratitude for the hospitality he received in Cotonou, describing the city’s warm welcome as a boost to his morale. “To everyone walking this journey with me, thank you. It hasn’t been easy… riding under the scorching sun, soaked by the rain,” he wrote, highlighting the physical and emotional toll of the trip. His posts on X have garnered significant support, with users like @ssbmuzik urging others to back his cause, noting his previous cycling feat and his mission to support vulnerable children.
The cyclist’s journey is deeply symbolic, with the bicycle representing the uphill battles faced by displaced and orphaned children. “Every mile I pedal represents the strength these kids show every day,” Emmiwuks said, as reported by The Nation Newspaper. His mission echoes the spirit of other Nigerian adventurers, such as Kunle Adeyanju, who rode a motorbike from London to Lagos in 2022 to raise funds for polio eradication. Emmiwuks’ personal story adds depth to his endeavour: after surviving a near-death experience with appendicitis in 2023, he transformed his life, moving from earning N15,000 a month as a crane motor boy to pursuing his dreams through cycling.
Supporters on X have praised Emmiwuks’ courage, with posts reflecting pride in his determination to highlight the plight of Africa’s displaced children. His journey has also drawn comparisons to other inspiring Nigerian stories, amplifying its impact. As he continues towards his next destination, Emmiwuks is calling for donations to support his cause, with details shared on his social media platforms.
Emmiwuks’ ride is more than a physical challenge; it’s a beacon of hope and resilience, shining a light on the strength of Africa’s most vulnerable. As he pedals forward, his journey inspires Nigerians and global audiences alike, proving that determination and a bicycle can carry a message of change across continents.