It's Saturday, June 12, 2010 and we're back in Lagos, having flown in from Abuja. We are extremely thankful to our Partners and Sponsors for supporting our 'Solar for the Massses' cause, which saw us driving across Nigeria in 17 gruelling days.
To Nextek Platforms who jumped on board (with little persuasion) to take care of our digital requirements.
To the individuals who took a leap of faith and sponsored solar lamps, especially Alima Atta of SESEMA PR (www.sesema.com) and Reginald Akujobi-Roberts of Diamond Bank.
To the anynmous donors who simply went to our site, sponsored lamps but didn't leave contact details.
To Hertz Rent-a-Car for the Toyota Hilux made available to us from start to finish. The Hilux perfectly suited the rugged terrain we passed through. And the Hertz driver, Femi Yusuf, whose professionalism at all times makes him a big asset to his company.
To Crystal Palace Hotel, owned by Gen. Sam Momah (rtd) - our Patron - & Mrs. Momah, for accommodation and superb hospitality.
To the Christian Rural & Urban Development Association of Nigeria (CRUDAN) for linking us to local contacts in every state. We had asked international organisations and government bodies for a database to help us plan our national itinerary, but met a brick wall. In frustration, we found CRUDAN on the Internet, contacted them two minutes to show time, and they responded swiftly. All thanks go to the organisation's Executive Director, Sam Ishaya and his team of zonal co-ordinators (David Yisa, Ayal Yohanna, Kene Onukwube, Armstrong Tseaa, and Adewale Adeduntan) for making our transition from state to state seamless.
Travel Tips
We thought it might also be useful to share some reflective thoughts. We did learn a few important lessons on the road. It is important to travel light in terms of people and equipment. You don't need a Hollywood/Nollywood production team to get your story together. A team must be able to multi-task.
Technology:
a) a USB modem might be sufficient for your browsing needs, but not for heavy file transfers
b) a Blackberry is useful for GPS functions, mobile email, and work organisation
c) a 12MP camera can come up with great shots. Always have a back-up camera.
d) you need mobile phones from two networks. Usually, one network does better in certain areas than the other network
Personal:
a) Take along bedsheets and pillowcases - you never know where you might be forced to sleep
b) a hand sanitiser is essential because you're constantly touching dirty surfaces
c) disinfectant (Dettol) is also essential as are antibiotics and ibruprofen
d) small towels instead of big ones (which do not dry quickly)
e) cotton clothing (ankara or t-shirts) take a beating and still come out tops
f) Mosquito repellant
Cultural:
a) listen, listen, listen (and observe). Learn a local greeting ahead of your planned visit. It's usually a good ice-breaker.
b) Wear a headscarf? Take off your cap/hat? Ask a local person what's appropriate or else communication may shut down between you and the host community.
c) never refuse a gift even if you won't need it
d) Rural people are far smarter than people think. Don't be patronising.
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