Nigeria, Africa and the rest of the world have witnessed a historical event that took about ten years to piece together after a Nigerian pilot used one plane to take Africa on its very first round-the-world solo flight.
Ademilola
A Nigerian pilot identified as Ademilola 'Lola' Odujinrin has become the first African pilot in history to fly solo around the world after he completed the final leg of his historic journey on Wednesday afternoon, landing safely at Washington Dulles International Airport.
According to Punch newspaper, the pilot who works for Air Djibouti, completed the entire circumnavigation in a Cirrus SR22, stopping in more than 15 countries on five continents, returning to Washington DC, where his journey began back in September.
The flight is part of Project Transcend, a foundation which aims to inspire young people to achieve their goals, regardless of their personal circumstances.
While speaking on his historic feat, Ademilola says: “Ever since I was a child, I dreamed of one day flying around the world. We have a responsibility to lead by example and follow our dreams. I want African children to think: ‘I can do this too!'
"I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Air Djibouti’s Chairman, Aboubaker Omar Hadi, and Cardiff Aviation’s Chairman, Bruce Dickinson, who have supported me throughout this journey. Without them, this would not have been possible."
Mario Fulgoni - CEO of Air Djibouti, Bruce Dickinson – Chairman of Cardiff Aviation,
Both men formed the part of a high-level delegation to welcome the historic aviator on the tarmac at Dulles Airport, including: the Ambassador of Djibouti to the United States, His Excellency, Mr. Mohamed Siad Doualeh; Senior Director of Strategic Planning for Djibouti Ports & Free Zones Authority, Mr. Dawit Michael Gebre-ab; and Chief Operating Officer of Air Djibouti, Mr. Moussa Houssein.
Other distinguished guests included the CEO Africa World Press, which plans to publish a book on the journey.
Ademilola has logged over 4,000 hours as a commercial Boeing 737 pilot since earning his pilot licence six years ago.
The Chairman of Air Djibouti, Aboubaker Omar Hadi, says: “By supporting initiatives like Lola’s flight around the world, Air Djibouti hopes to inspire a new generation of pilots in Africa and help to pave the way for the aviation industry to thrive in the region.
“The benefits will be felt within the region, as this will encourage more intra-African trade and sustainable economic development.
“With the commencement of the Single African Air Transport Market set for June 2017, air travel in the continent is positioned to grow rapidly and become a key contributor to the region’s economic and social development.”