Man drives across 13 countries, traces root to Nigeria

Azubuike Onwuka has completed a remarkable journey, tracing his ancestral homeland to the Ebem Ohafia community in Abia State, Nigeria, after more than three decades away. Onwuka, born and raised in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and a Nigerian father, embarked on an extensive expedition across Europe and Africa to reconnect with his roots.

His historic expedition involved driving through 13 countries: the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Spain, Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, and Benin Republic, before finally arriving in Ebem Ohafia. Onwuka described the challenging road trip across two continents as a testament to his "resilience, determination, and an enduring connection to ancestral heritage."

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Although I was born and raised in Europe, I always felt a strong connection to my father’s homeland and longed to experience the culture, history, and traditions of his people.

Inspired by a deep desire to connect with his paternal homeland and a passion for adventure, Onwuka chose to travel by road, influenced partly by a dream. His arrival in Ebem Ohafia was met with widespread jubilation and a cultural display by community members who gathered in large numbers to welcome him home.

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My decision to travel by road was influenced by a dream I had and my passion for adventure, which motivated me to undertake this historic solo expedition from Europe to Africa.

The reception included prayers from community leaders, youths, and well-wishers, followed by a procession led by the Ohafia War Dance Group. Azubuike paid homage to the paramount ruler of Ebem Ohafia Ancient Kingdom, His Royal Highness Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha, receiving royal blessings before proceeding to his family compound for further celebrations with relatives, friends, and the community.

The Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU) described the homecoming as "a historic and emotional moment that demonstrated the enduring bond between Ebem sons and daughters in the diaspora and their ancestral homeland." Community leaders commended the collaborative efforts of various traditional and executive bodies within Ebem Ohafia for organizing a fitting reception, celebrating the values of unity, love, identity, and cultural pride that define the community.

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a historic and emotional moment that demonstrated the enduring bond between Ebem sons and daughters in the diaspora and their ancestral homeland.