With little more than faith, grit, and a bicycle, Nigerian adventurer Myam Emmanuel, better known as Emmiwuks, is pedaling his way from Nigeria to the United States — a journey he says is powered by compassion and a dream to meet Pope Leo XIV.
Now on Day 121 of his solo expedition, the 30-something cyclist says he’s not chasing fame or fortune, but purpose. His mission? To draw attention to the plight of orphans, internally displaced persons, and vulnerable people across Africa.
“This journey isn’t about luxury or fame,” Emmiwuks said in an emotional open letter to Pope Leo XIV. “It’s about impact, faith, and fire. For those without shoes, I ride barefoot sometimes. For those without a voice, I speak louder at every border. And for those without a home, I sleep wherever the road allows.”
Starting from Nigeria, the young Pan-African idealist has cycled through several West African countries, facing the elements, border bureaucracy, and lonely roads. His next big milestone: crossing into Central Africa as he continues toward the U.S.
In his heartfelt message, Emmanuel praised Pope Leo XIV’s humility and compassion, calling the Pontiff “a Shepherd who proves that love is the greatest journey of all.”
“When I finally meet you,” he wrote, “it won’t just be about faith. It’ll be about how purpose and compassion can heal broken places, restore lost hope, and inspire the next generation of believers and dreamers.”
At the heart of his mission lies a prayer — not just for the Pope, but for humanity.
“Heavenly Father, bless our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV,” he prayed. “Grant him wisdom, strength, and divine protection as he leads Your Church in truth and love.”
From his current stop in Bissau, Emmiwuks says the journey continues — one pedal, one prayer, and one dream at a time.
“Together we ride. Together we rise,” he signed off, accompanied by the hashtags #NIG2USA and #adventure.
It’s not just a cycling trip anymore — it’s a movement of faith on wheels.
