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Day 142 of what has become one of the most talked-about solo adventures across Africa has taken a difficult but responsible turn. Emmiwuks, the Nigerian rider attempting to cycle from Lagos, Nigeria to the United States (better known on social media as @Real-Emmiwuks and by his hashtag #NIG2USAonabicycle), has announced an indefinite pause to his journey while in The Gambia after developing severe medical issues.
In an emotional update posted to his followers, the adventurer revealed that since crossing into The Gambia he has been under constant hospital care and physical therapy. His legs and eyes are badly swollen, and multiple parts of his body are showing serious strain from more than four months of relentless cycling through some of the toughest terrain on the continent.
“Family, I won’t lie, this past week has been one of the toughest on this journey,” he wrote. “This journey isn’t just tiring, it is painful.”
Emmiwuks, who left Nigeria in April 2025 aiming to raise awareness and funds for polio eradication while proving that extraordinary dreams are possible, has already covered thousands of kilometres through Nigeria, Niger, Mali, Senegal, and now The Gambia. Supporters have watched in awe as he battled desert heat, border delays, mechanical breakdowns, and the sheer physical toll of pedalling a heavily loaded bicycle day after day.
Yet the messages asking “Emmi, when are you leaving The Gambia?” have been constant, and in his latest post he addressed them directly and firmly: “My health must come first. If the doctors tell me to stay one more week or even a full month, I will stay… Please, support me, but don’t pressure me. This journey is bigger than speed; it’s about endurance, purpose, and survival.”
The rider emphasised that he is not on a timed race or rushing to an emergency board meeting; he is cycling across continents on human power alone. “If time was the goal,” he said, “I would have taken a flight a long time ago.”
Despite the setback, his tone remains defiant and grateful. He thanked the people of The Gambia for their medical care and the entire continent for the love shown along the route. “We’re almost ready to continue, slowly, safely, wisely,” he assured followers. “The journey continues…”
Emmiwuks’s ride has already inspired countless people across Africa and the diaspora, proving that determination, community support, and a clear purpose can push human limits further than many thought possible. This health scare is a stark reminder of exactly how high those limits are being tested.
For now, the bicycle rests in Banjul while its rider heals. When he does roll out again (whether in days or weeks), tens of thousands will be waiting to cheer him back onto the road toward Morocco, Europe, and eventually the Americas.
Get well soon, Lionheart. Africa is rooting for you, at whatever pace it takes.
