360 km Journey from West to East: COPDEM’s Training Expedition from Ekiti to Anambra

Afolabi Idowu Olaiya

My journey to Anambra State was truly remarkable. As a participant in the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) training for State Publicity Secretaries on Journalism, Leadership, and Digital Media, I was eager to embark on this transformative experience. Organized in partnership with Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the expedition aimed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate challenges and foster growth within our communities and Nigeria as a whole.

Setting off from Ado Ekiti on a beautiful Sunday morning, I was filled with anticipation. The 360 km trip to Awka, expected to take about 6 hours and 45 minutes, was hindered by poor road conditions—a persistent issue on Nigerian highways. While the presence of security personnel at over 52 roadblocks between Ado Ekiti and Benin City offered some reassurance, it also underscored the security challenges faced by commuters.

Upon arriving in Onitsha, Anambra State, I took a taxi to Awka, which was a relatively smooth ride. The warm welcome I received from Mr. Joseph and Mr. Lawrence at the DDM Headquarters made me feel right at home.

The training, which ran from November 26 to December 5, 2024, was a treasure trove of knowledge and experiences. The environment was serene, meals were consistently served on time, and the sessions, held from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, were engaging and informative. Despite the challenges we faced, the organizers ensured we had access to all necessary materials and tools.

The COPDEM training expedition was more than just a journey from Ekiti to Anambra; it was a transformative experience that equipped me with valuable skills and knowledge to positively impact my community. Reflecting on my journey, I realize that the true measure of success lies not in the destination but in the journey itself. The lessons I learned during this expedition will resonate with me for years to come, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated.

In the words of COPDEM, “the visit to Awka shall always be a journey of impact on my path of life.” I couldn’t agree more.

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