Travel is often romanticized as discovery, adventure, and
cultural exchange. However, for those who travel extensively—especially across
developing or unfamiliar regions—safety becomes as important as curiosity.
One such lesson came to me on 7th July 2008, during a road journey
in Nigeria that I will never forget.
The Journey That Changed My Perspective
I was travelling from Jos (Plateau State) to Abuja,
Nigeria’s capital, along with my wife and two fellow international volunteers.
The purpose of our trip was joyful—we were heading to attend the 50th
Anniversary celebration of VSO. We began our journey in the afternoon,
confident of a smooth drive.
Like many expatriates in Nigeria, one of my co-travellers
had recently purchased a second-hand car. In Nigeria, personal
mobility is essential due to limited public transport and long inter-city
distances. The car was in reasonable condition, and the drive began calmly.
How a Small Mechanical Issue Became a Major
Risk
Shortly after crossing Riyom, our journey took an
unexpected turn—we experienced a tyre puncture. While changing the tyre,
we realised that the spare was not fully roadworthy. Although we
continued cautiously, this minor mechanical issue forced us to slow down
significantly.
Lesson 1: A weak spare tyre can turn a
manageable situation into a serious safety risk. Always ensure your spare is
roadworthy before long-distance travel.
Understanding Road Dynamics in High-Security
Zones
As we continued driving at a reduced speed, we heard sirens
approaching from behind. Initially, we assumed it was a routine
high-profile movement—perhaps a government convoy or a cash transfer vehicle,
both common on Nigerian highways.
Moments later, a money transfer convoy with armed
security personnel approached aggressively. Their response was sudden and
intimidating—shouting, striking our vehicle, and pointing firearms at us. In
seconds, our calm journey turned into a life-threatening situation.
Our immediate instinct was to stop the car and comply,
which ultimately prevented escalation.
Lesson 2: In regions with armed convoys,
slowing down or blocking their movement—even unintentionally—can be perceived
as a threat. Always yield immediately when sirens approach.
Why Compliance Saved Us
Later, we understood that the security personnel intended
to clear the road and stop nearby vehicles as a standard safety protocol
during money transfers. Our slower speed—caused by the damaged tyre—had
unintentionally placed us in their path.
We waited quietly for about 20–30 minutes until
the convoy passed. Once safe, we resumed our journey, replaced the tyre, and
reached Abuja later than planned—but unharmed.
Lesson 3: In high-tension security
situations, calm compliance is often the safest response. Avoid confrontation,
sudden movements, or questioning authority on the road.
Key Travel Safety Takeaways for International
and Domestic Travelers
Based on this experience, here are some practical road
safety guidelines for travelers, volunteers, and field professionals:
🚗 Before
the Journey
- Inspect
all tyres, including the spare
- Carry
emergency contact numbers
- Understand
local road rules and security norms
- Avoid
travelling late in the evening
🚨 During
the Journey
- Maintain
situational awareness
- Respond
immediately to sirens or convoy signals
- Avoid
sudden stops or slowing down in sensitive areas
- Keep
calm and follow instructions if confronted by security forces
🌍 Mindset
Matters
- Safety
protocols differ from country to country
- What
feels excessive may be routine security practice locally
- Respect
local systems—even when they feel uncomfortable
A Final Reflection
· Travel does not just broaden the
mind—it tests preparedness, patience, and humility. That day on a
Nigerian highway taught me that awareness and preparedness can save lives,
even when intentions are innocent.
· We were fortunate. We were safe.
And we continued our volunteering journey with renewed respect for the
realities of travel in unfamiliar terrains.
· Because sometimes, the road is
not just a path—it is a teacher.
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