The Oyo State Government is set to make history by backing an attempt to break a Guinness World Record, the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, Toyin Balogun, announced on Monday.
The government will support Ebaide Joy, a cyclist based in Ibadan, who plans to embark on a record-breaking solo motorcycle journey across 12 African countries in July. This mission aims to surpass the current Guinness record for the longest solo ride by a female biker, which stands at 30,000 kilometers.
Balogun explained that beyond the record attempt, the project will provide life-changing vocational training for 18 orphaned girls who share a similar background to Joy, having grown up in orphanages in Nigeria. The commissioner said the feat has official approval from Guinness World Records and full backing from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
The goal, she said, is to empower vulnerable girls and highlight the strength of African women on a global platform. “Ebaide Joy is a courageous female motorcyclist and philanthropist ready to undertake this challenging journey across 12 countries,” Balogun said.
The commissioner pledged strong institutional support for Joy’s mission, describing it as aligned with the ministry’s aim to empower vulnerable groups and reduce poverty. With the support of Governor Seyi Makinde, the ministry will also assist in the training and post-training empowerment of the 18 girls.
“After they complete their training, we will collaborate with your team to provide startup grants and equipment to help them build sustainable livelihoods,” Balogun said.
She emphasized that the journey is more than an adrenaline-fueled adventure or record attempt. “It symbolizes the resilience, courage, and determination of women breaking barriers,” the commissioner added.
Ebaide’s solo rides are filmed using a camera mounted on her motorcycle, capturing both the physical challenges of the trip and the stories of the people she meets along the way.
Ebaide described this journey as the highlight of her life, saying the adrenaline, sense of purpose, and mission keep her going even during tough moments. Her upcoming trip, scheduled to start in July 2025, is expected to last three months.
Upon returning to Nigeria, she plans to hold a graduation ceremony for the girls who complete the training, marking a new chapter in their lives and continuing her mission of making a positive impact through her adventure.
She told officials that her journey is not just about breaking a record but also about breaking cycles of poverty. “I grew up an orphan, so I understand the struggles they face,” she said.
The program will offer the 18 orphaned girls three months of intensive vocational training in tailoring, hairdressing, and catering. After graduation, each girl will receive capital to start her own business, Ebaide explained.
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