Alma Asinobi dared to do what no Nigerian has ever done: travel around the world with her Nigerian passport in less than 64 hours. Her inspirational attempt at breaking the Guinness World Record for the fastest time to travel to all seven continents is nothing short of brave and powerful.
Alma Asinobi, a passionate travel enthusiast and the driving force behind Kaijego, a company dedicated to unlocking global adventures for all, especially Nigerians, set her sights on an extraordinary feat: breaking the Guinness World Record for the fastest time to travel all seven continents.
Her ambitious plan —to break the record and travel the world in less than 3 days, 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 4 seconds, armed with her Nigerian passport — became a powerful testament to personal determination in the face of systemic travel challenges. Alma’s journey, born from a desire to ease the often-complex realities of international travel for her compatriots, promises to spark crucial conversations. Due to these systemic challenges, she was unfortunately unable to break the record, underscoring the very real need for such an undertaken. Despite this, she is now the fastest African woman to travel the world.
Marie Claire Nigeria sat down with Alma to unpack the intricacies of her record attempt, the unexpected hurdles she faced along the way, and the profound inspiration that propelled her to undertake such a significant journey.
You founded Kaijego, a travel company. What specifically drew you to travel, and why was it compelling for you?
I started Kaijego to provide Nigerians and Africans with better access to travel information, visas, and planning. Over time, it’s evolved into a full-service travel agency, handling everything from individual trips to group tours.
What inspired you to attempt breaking the Guinness World Record for fastest travel to all seven continents? Was there a specific moment or a gradual build-up?
It was a build-up. As someone who loves to travel, I’ve experienced passport issues, visa complications, and varied treatment at borders. I felt this needed more attention, and a world record attempt seemed like a powerful way to highlight it.
Let’s talk about your planning. What factors did you consider when mapping out your journey?
Speed was the primary concern — finding the fastest routes globally. Visa restrictions were crucial; I needed to maximise country access with the fewest visas possible, which involved researching agreements and visa hacks. Finally, I looked at flight reliability and the proximity of airports to city centres, as I planned to briefly visit each city for photos. Airports far from the city were generally avoided.
What was the most challenging country to enter with your passport during this trip?
Australia, hands down. The visa application process took three attempts. Then, on my final flight leg in Dubai, I was denied boarding to Australia, my final destination. I had to make a last-minute pivot. Despite the visa’s approval, they required reconfirmation. The Schengen visa also took four applications. I missed a flight in Spain to Morocco because I couldn’t check in online; I had to show my visa in person at the counter, and that delayed my flight, causing me to miss the check-in. In Punta Cana, a flight to Paris was cancelled. The alternative was Frankfurt, but they needed to contact the German police for confirmation, which would take too long, so I was denied boarding at the last minute.
How did you work around these challenges?
The initial plan was much shorter than 71 hours; the challenges caused delays. Not being able to fly to Frankfurt meant a later, longer flight to Italy. Missing the Morocco flight led to a later flight to Cairo, extending the time. The Paris flight issue resulted in having to go to Sydney, another longer flight with more delays. There was no way around these; they directly impacted the final time and prevented breaking the record. The flag signing was part of the plan from the beginning.
Did you get as many signatures as you needed?
Yes, I got over 600 signatures, and the record to break was 500. We’re hoping to hear from Guinness World Records soon.
Before the trip, how did you prepare mentally and physically for such an intense journey?
I consulted with professionals —a physiotherapist and other medical experts — to ensure I was eating well, had the right footwear, and maintained good posture. Surrounding myself with supportive friends and family was also crucial.
What was the most breathtaking moment during your trip?
Antarctica was incredible; I’d never been there before. While the trip was fast-paced, seeing the Sydney Opera House was also a highlight. I also really enjoyed Santiago, Chile; the weather, people, and food resonated with me, and I spent a little more time there due to a flight delay.
What was the lowest point during the journey, and how did you push through it?
It was definitely the Australian flight issue. I didn’t exactly “push through”; I just had to accept it and move on. There wasn’t anything I could do at that moment.
You must have encountered stereotypes about Nigerian travellers. Can you share some examples and how you handled them?
Beyond the immigration and boarding issues I mentioned, I don’t recall specific stereotypes. It was mostly at the entry points where the need to “confirm” my visa seemed to indicate a general pattern of distrust.
Were reasons given for these extra checks?
They both cited the need to confirm my visa. This pattern of needing extra confirmation seemed unique to me. I didn’t receive any other specific reasons.
What message do you hope your journey sends to other African, particularly Nigerian, passport holders who face similar restrictions?
I want them to keep going. Things won’t always go as planned, no matter how much you prepare. The important thing is to persevere and learn from the experiences.
Do you think this attempt, despite not breaking the record, will influence international perceptions of Nigerian travellers?
Yes, I planned this attempt for about a year. The journey itself, perhaps not immediately. But the conversations surrounding it, I hope so. It’s a start to raising awareness and pushing for change and inclusivity in the travel ecosystem for Nigerians. By continuing to speak about it in relevant spaces and initiating these discussions whenever possible.
What systemic challenges do you think need to be addressed for African travellers?
I believe our governments need to prioritize better diplomatic relations, especially concerning travel and visas. Citizens of some countries face repercussions if their travel is unjustly hindered, but the same isn’t always true for us. Our governments must also actively negotiate better terms and agreements with foreign entities.
Let’s talk about Kaijego. How do you think this journey will affect your travel company?
I’ve gained invaluable firsthand travel experience, which I can now bring to the company to better assist our clients. Additionally, I believe my story and journey will build trust with potential clients, showing our dedication and knowledge in navigating complex travel situations.
What’s your next big adventure or goal after this?
Honestly, I have nothing planned yet. I need to rest and recover first.
What advice would you give someone with a restrictive passport who dreams of extensive international travel?
Start with more accessible countries to build your travel history. Focus on West African countries or others with easier entry based on your passport. This helps establish a travel record and can make future visa applications easier.
We’re currently in our Power Issue. What does power mean to you as a woman, a professional, and an experienced traveller?
To me, power is the ability to free people from oppression. It’s an opportunity to give back and to create positive change. If you have influence or freedom, you have power. Using that power to help others reach the same level or gain their own power creates a ripple effect, ultimately making things better for everyone.
