In a bold move blending adventure, empowerment, and social impact, the Oyo State Government has thrown its weight behind a remarkable Guinness World Record attempt that could make global headlines this July.
At the heart of this historic effort is Ebaide Joy a fearless Ibadan-based motorcyclist and philanthropist with a compelling story of resilience.
Raised in an orphanage, Joy is now on a mission to ride solo across 12 African countries, aiming to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest solo motorcycle journey by a female biker, shattering the current 30,000-kilometre benchmark.
But this journey is more than just an adrenaline-fueled quest. It’s a symbol of purpose — a mission to inspire and uplift vulnerable girls who share a background similar to hers.
Speaking on the initiative, the Oyo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Toyin Balogun, described the project as a “milestone moment for the state” and a “powerful example of breaking cycles not just records.
“Ebaide Joy is not just chasing a world record; she’s chasing transformation for herself and for others,” Balogun said. “With full support from the ministry and Governor Seyi Makinde, we are proud to be part of this life-changing initiative.”
As part of the project, 18 orphaned girls in Nigeria will be selected for an intensive three-month vocational training programme in tailoring, catering, and What sets Ebaide Joy’s mission apart isn’t just the scale of her journey, but the legacy she hopes to leave behind.
As she crosses borders and landscapes — from bustling cities to remote villages — Joy isn’t just tracking miles; she’s documenting the rich, diverse stories of African resilience. Her motorcycle, equipped with cameras, will capture the everyday lives of people she meets, giving global audiences a raw, unfiltered look into the heart of Africa.
“I want the world to see Africa not through the lens of poverty or conflict, but through strength, culture, and unity,” she said. “This ride is my way of changing narratives, both about women and about our continent.”
Her story has already begun to spark attention across social media platforms and advocacy circles, where many are hailing her as a symbol of grit, hope, and progress.
Commissioner Toyin Balogun sees this initiative as a template for future collaborations between government, grassroots advocates, and citizens with lived experiences.
“We need more projects that don’t just offer aid, but offer agency,” she said. “Ebaide’s project gives these girls a voice, a skill, and a path to independence. That is the kind of impact governance should support.”
With Governor Seyi Makinde’s backing, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development plans to integrate the programme into its broader empowerment strategy potentially expanding it to benefit more girls across the states.
As Ebaide revs up for her July departure, preparations are in full swing — from route logistics to training centre setups and media coverage planning. Already, private sponsors and NGOs have begun expressing interest in supporting the mission.
Ebaide Joy’s name may soon be written in the Guinness World Records, but her real achievement will be etched in the hearts and futures of those she lifts along the way.
