69-Year-Old Nigerian Completes Epic 40-Country Motorcycle Journey for Boys’ Mental Health
A remarkable 99-day motorcycle expedition across Europe and Africa, championing boys’ mental health awareness, concluded triumphantly in Lagos as Nigerian adventurer Ibi Sofekun returned home to a celebratory welcome on Sunday, October 5, 2025.
Sofekun, nicknamed Firekiss, embarked on his “Ride for the Boy Child” campaign from Dublin, Ireland, on June 28, 2025, traversing 40 countries to spotlight the often-overlooked mental health challenges facing young boys globally.
At the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba in Onikan, Lagos, Sofekun shared disturbing statistics from his journey, including a revelation from the Moroccan ambassador in Rabat about over 10,430 bodies recovered from the Mediterranean Sea in 2024 alone – victims of attempted migration to Europe. This tragic figure underscores the mental health crisis driving young Africans to seek success abroad at deadly costs.
The initiative, aligned with Project HELP, promotes a comprehensive approach to supporting boys’ development. The acronym represents Hope, Encouragement, Leadership by example, and Purpose – fundamental elements Sofekun believes are crucial for nurturing emotionally healthy men.
“We must question how troubled men develop from boys,” Sofekun emphasized, pointing to global issues like gun violence, knife crimes, extremism, and cult activities predominantly involving men.
Project documentarian Uchechi Deborah Uchenna highlighted the journey’s broader significance: “This isn’t merely about travel – it’s about illuminating the silent struggles of boys and demonstrating how individual action can catalyze collective change.”
The homecoming ceremony drew notable attendees, including Vanguard Newspaper Publisher Mr. Sam Amuka, Boys Scouts Board of Trustees Chairman Sen. Dr. Bode Olajumoke, and Lagos State Scout Commissioner Alhaji Adebesin Olohuntoyin Oyeyemi.
This unprecedented journey not only demonstrates the power of personal commitment to social change but also initiates a crucial dialogue about boys’ mental health in Africa and beyond. Sofekun’s mission serves as a powerful reminder that addressing young boys’ emotional well-being is essential for creating a healthier society for all.
