On 21st September 2022, the Nigeria National PolioPlus Committee proudly unveiled Rotarian Kunle Adeyanju, popularly known as “The Lion Heart”, as its Celebrity Ambassador. His fearless spirit, inspiring journey, and personal dedication to the fight against polio make him a true symbol of courage and service.
Rotarian Kunle Adeyanju, the Imaginative President of the Rotary Club of Ikoyi Metro (2022/23), has long been recognized for his daring adventures and passion for humanity. A self-acclaimed daredevil, he has twice climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and once rode a motorcycle from Lagos to Accra in just three days.
But his most remarkable feat came in 2022, when he embarked on a bold journey that captured the world’s attention.
Driven by compassion and fueled by courage, Kunle set out on a motorcycle expedition from London to Lagos to raise funds and awareness for polio eradication. Over the course of 41 days, he rode 13,000 kilometers (8,100 miles) across 11 countries and 31 cities, facing extreme terrains, harsh weather, and dangerous routes.
His journey took him through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass at the peak of the Atlas Mountains, across the
scorching Sahara Desert with temperatures soaring up to 53°C (127°F), and through countless trials that tested both his strength and determination. Riding at speeds of up to 150 km/h (93 mph), he completed the desert crossing in seven days a true testament to his endurance and resolve.
Kunle often shares that this mission was inspired by a childhood friend who suffered from polio and sadly passed away years later. His ride was more than an adventure — it was an act of remembrance, advocacy, and hope for a polio-free world.
Born in Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria, Kunle Adeyanju has always been committed to growth and impact. He completed his primary and secondary education in Nigeria and later attended Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he first joined Rotary as a campus member.
In 2009, he pursued postgraduate studies and earned a Master’s degree, and as of June 2022, he is advancing his academic journey with doctoral studies in Business Administration, specializing in Social Entrepreneurship, at the University of Arizona, USA.
From scaling mountains to crossing deserts, Rotarian Kunle Adeyanju embodies the Rotary spirit of Service Above Self. His London-to-Lagos ride not only raised significant funds for Rotary’s fight against polio but also reignited global conversations about the urgency of finishing the race to end this disease once and for all.
By appointing him as a Celebrity Ambassador, the NNPPC recognizes his unwavering courage, his humanitarian heart, and his ability to inspire millions to join the fight for a polio-free world.