Emmanuel Myam, popularly known as Emmiwuks, is a 25-year-old adventurer from Benue State whose journey—from Makurdi to Lagos in 2022—first brought him into the public eye. That ride, undertaken to meet Afrobeats star Davido, cemented his reputation as a fearless dreamer, even though his destination remained elusive.

But the real transformation came after a life-threatening bout with appendicitis in 2023. Surviving near-death changed his outlook. He resolved to turn his personal strength into a beacon for others. From working as a crane-motor boy earning just ₦15,000 a month, he saved enough to buy and restore a bicycle frame—setting the stage for a mission far bigger than himself.

The Quest: Nigeria to the United States—by Bike

On June 30, 2025, Emmiwuks launched his most ambitious adventure yet: cycling from Lagos, Nigeria, all the way to the United States. His route does not follow a continuous land border—meaning he must traverse the Atlantic Ocean by ship somewhere along the journey. In total, he’s tasked with covering an estimated 8,573 kilometers (5,327 miles).
This isn’t just a physical stunt. He’s riding to raise awareness and support for orphaned and displaced children across Africa, especially in conflict-ridden areas like Benue. “Every mile I pedal represents the strength these kids show every day,” he shares.

African People’s Records (APR), a new platform celebrating African achievements, has already listed his journey as a potential record for “Most Countries Visited on a Single Bicycle Journey.” Emmiwuks would be its first entry—a fitting symbol of hope and persistence.

Here are five key things to know about Emmanuel “Emmiwuks” Myam, the Nigerian cyclist riding from Nigeria to the United States:
1. He’s Cycling From Nigeria to the U.S. — Yes, Really

Emmiwuks began his epic bicycle journey on June 30, 2025, from Lagos, Nigeria, aiming to reach the United States. While he can’t cycle across the ocean, his plan involves biking through multiple West African countries, then shipping his bicycle across the Atlantic and continuing his journey on land in the Americas.

2. His Mission is Bigger Than the Ride

This journey isn’t just about adventure — it’s a humanitarian mission. Emmiwuks is using the ride to raise awareness and support for orphaned and internally displaced children affected by violence and poverty, especially in northern Nigeria and his home state, Benue.

3. He Survived a Health Crisis That Changed His Life

After surviving a near-fatal appendicitis in 2023, Emmiwuks had a personal transformation. It inspired him to live boldly and dedicate his life to meaningful causes — including this historic ride.

4. He’s Not Backed by Big Sponsors

Unlike many long-distance adventurers, Emmiwuks funded his journey independently, saving money from working as a crane-motor boy, earning about ₦15,000 per month. He built and repaired his own bicycle using a frame he bought for ₦45,000 (roughly $30).

5. He’s Already Making History

He has crossed Nigeria, Togo, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Liberia so far, and has gained the attention of African People’s Records, who may recognize him for visiting the most countries on a single bicycle journey. If successful, he will be the first Nigerian to complete such a feat—and possibly the first African to do it in this specific way.