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Ajala The Traveller: The Man And His Journeys

Ajala. | Photo The African Abroad

Every avid Nigerian traveller or globetrotter has one time or the other been referred to as Ajala by their friends, families or acquaintances. Most even use the designation in their pseudo names; names like Ajalabug, Wondering Ajala, Ajalaman, The travelling Ajala. This vocabulary that has become so familiar and part of the Nigerian travel lingua still has little or less known about the origin of its name.

So, who is Ajala?

On April 27, 1957, in London, a 26 years old student of psychology, Mashood Olabisi Ajala embarked on a trip across 40 countries in Europe, Asia and Africa on his Vespa scooter wearing his full conspicuous agbada regalia with a cap to match. As a pre-medical student, Olabisi has previously undertaken a similar jaunt four years ago in the USA pedalling from Chicago to Los Angeles on a bicycle covering 3,800 miles in 35 days over ten cities. His journey which he nicknamed “This Safari” will cover 30,000 miles across 40 countries in nine months and return to London afterwards.

How did his journey go?

In his book “An African Abroad”, Olabisi narrated his encounter with the then president of Egypt, Gamal Abdel Nasser:

“Every day at 6 am for the next two weeks, I was waiting directly in front of his presidential palace hoping he would come out. On the 13th day of my hitherto unpromising efforts, around 5 pm President Naseer emerged from the interior of his residence heading for his car.”

In his agbada, the heavily bearded Olabisi screamed as loud as he could and caught the attention of the president. He was heartily welcomed in by the president.

Olabisi was very relentless and radical in his approach to travelling and this brought him fame and also trouble. In an interview, he was quoted saying -The world should send Doctors to Africa, missionaries to Chicago, Ajala said. The gangsters here need converting much more than we do.

Ajala The Traveller in Moscow | Pinterest

He also met with other great world leaders among them is the then Shah of Iran, the Soviet President -Nikita Sergeyevich, President of Egypt, Ronald Regan of America and the likes. His trouble particularly impressed Mrs Golda Meir the then prime minister of Israel, on meeting with Ajala she said as quoted in Ajala’s memoir ‘it’s not often we have this kind of trouble. Your bravery impressed us. We thought we should crown it.’

Crossing Lebanon on his way to Israel, the Lebanese security force arrested him believing he was on an espionage mission for the Israeli. He knew crossing of any border between Israeli-Arab frontier would be a death wish but was daring to continue his journey as this was the heat of the Israeli-Arab war.

His journey took him not just to the cities but to the rural places where no black man has ever set their foot, upon his arrival at a farm in Minsk in the then Soviet Union which is now in Belarus, his arrival caused some locals to flee in panic at the “frightening sight” of the black man invading their village.

He ended up spending more time than the initially proposed nine months, and during his sojourn, he got arrested on several occasions. He visited eighty-seven countries in his six-year globetrotting trip (ranging from North America to Eastern and Western Europe, through Africa and Asia and as far east as Korea, Indonesia and Australia). He documented all this in his book- The African Abroad”.

After his first journey previously in America, he expeditiously got fame for himself and accolades. All these got him a role in the film “White Witch Doctor” produced by 20th-Century Fox movies where he played the role of an African boy.

Ajala The Traveller featured in Jet magazine 1952

Why did he leave the USA to continue schooling in London England?

The intrepid traveller had a forgery case with the American immigration and was deported, he went on to protest against this by climbing an 80ft mast and refusing to come down for nearly 13 hours, his plea was that he was duped and didn’t commit the crime. The US government decided to deport him to London instead of Nigeria after he said he would face a tribal execution if he got deported home.

With his tremendous charisma and eccentric nature, he was the golden boy loved by the ladies, many of whom he met on his journeys. In his trip around the world, he married 5 women; an Australian lady, an American, a British model, a Nigerian woman in London and also another Nigerian in Nigeria. Upon his return to Nigeria, he became a publicist and his awesome showmanship got many musicians such as Ebenezer Obey, Ayinde Barrister and Sunny Ade singing about him.

In his last days, Ajala extravagance life became arduous to maintain and his wealth he had amassed over the years went gradually down to penury. In Lagos, he lived in a two-storey building in Bariga where he managed to live with stroke until he died in February 1999 at the age of seventy in a general hospital in Lagos.

It’s 63 years since he made his journey across the world, Ajala children are still in different parts of the world where he once journeyed. Ajala explored the unexplored and charted the hitherto uncharted. He made history. And also lived through life. He achieved a feat that no Nigerian or African might be able to achieve in our present day. His youthful decades was nothing compared to what the average person will do even in two lifetimes. His legacy lives on.

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The Story of Olabisi Ajala, The Popular Nigerian Traveller Who Toured The World On A Vespa

Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala aka Ajala the traveller on his vespa

Who was Olabisi Ajala The Traveller?

Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala , popularly known in Nigeria and across the globe as ‘ Ajala the traveller ‘, was the man who toured the United States of America on a bicycle, and the world, on a motor scooter better known as Vespa.

From the ordinary son of a traditionalist, Ajala rose to a global celebrity and his name became a song sang on every lips. During his prime, Ajala was envied and praised by both the young and old for his courage, determination and success.

Even in 1972, the Nigerian music wizard himself, Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey , immortalized Ajala and his adventures in a song included in his album titled ‘Board Members’. Obey sang thus: “ Ajala travel all over the world (2ce), Ajala travel (2ce), Ajala travel all over the world. ” Below is OldNaija’s detailed account of the life, career and death of the legendary and iconic Ajala the traveller.

Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala was born in Ghana into a Nigerian polygamous family of thirty. He was one out of the twenty-five children produced by his father and his four wives. Shortly after Ajala’s birth, his family moved down to Nigeria where he schooled in Baptist Academy, Lagos and Ibadan Boys’ High School.

At the age of 18, Ajala went to America to further his studies; he was admitted into the University of Chicago where he studied as a pre-medical student. His initial dream was to become a medical doctor and return to Nigeria to disparage the practice of voodoo and the people’s belief in superstitions but Ajala’s lifetime dream changed along the course of his life; he found something more interesting to him than donning lab coats and using stethoscope.

Ajala came into the spotlight in 1952 when he went on a lecture tour across the United States of America on a bicycle covering a total of 2,280 miles.

Throughout the lecture tour, Ajala dressed in the traditional attires of Nigeria one of which was described as “elaborately flowered robes with a felt-like head-dresses to match”. He did this in a bid to enhance the purpose of his lecture tour which was to educate Americans about the progress of his country, Nigeria, and Africa in general, and to enlighten them that contrary to the popular belief held in America, Africans don’t walk about naked or covered in leaves and loin clothes.

The news of Ajala’s bicycle tour spread across the United States of America like wildfire and quickly made it to the dailies and television.

Below is a text of how Ajala was described in Global Television Formats: Understanding Television Across Borders: “ Perhaps even more significant for our discussion of the show’s global and local dynamics, however, was the participation of Nigerian contestant, Olabisi Ajala, a sophisticated world traveller and secretary to his country’s prime minister. Olabisi is an attractive and charismatic black man who held a degree in psychology from Columbia University and was an expert in ethnology, the subject he chose for Lascia o Raddoppia? Olabisi recurrently appeared on TV wearing traditional Nigerian clothes, and he managed to transform every night on the show into a celebration of his ethnic and cultural heritage. The final night however, Olabisi entered the TV studio wearing an impeccable tuxedo, while Mike wore the traditional Nigerian costume, demonstrating once more his ability to interact with his contestants’ most genuine aspects of identity, be it regional, Italian or foreign and Other. ’’

Ajala’s fame also landed him big movie roles. After his bicycle tour across the United States of America, he got his first role (of $300 per week) in the movie White Witch Doctor produced by the popular 20th Century-Fox Motion Picture. He played the supporting role of Ola, a companion of Loni, a famous African hunter played by Robert Mitchum. Also in August, 1955, he signed a movie contract with the Eagle Lion Studios of Hollywood which involved making movies with European and African backgrounds.

Ajala the traveller flanked by Jawarhalar Nehru of India sitting on his scooter

The already famous Ajala the traveler did not limit his tour to the United States of America, he visited a total of 87 countries with his scooter in six years.

He visited countries such as Israel, India, Australia, Iran, Russia, Ghana, Cyprus, Egypt and so on where he met with some of the greatest leaders in the world such as: Gamal Abdul Nasser of Egypt, Jawarhalar Nehru of India, Niki Khrushchev of the USSR, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi of Iran, Ronald Reagan of America, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa of Nigeria and many more.

Ajala the traveller was known as a man of many women. His marital life featured different women from different parts of the world. In 1953, a Chicago nurse named Myrtle Basset filed a paternity suit against Ajala for denying being the father of ‘their son’ which she claimed Ajala himself named Oladipupo and also signed his birth certificate.

Despite the lawsuit, Ajala held firmly to his ground denying being the father of the boy. Ajala proposed a DNA test but the nurse was reluctant at first and when she eventually agreed to surrender the baby for the test, Ajala disappeared into the thin air which made the court ruled against him. In March, 1953, a domestic court mandated Ajala to pay $10 per week for the upkeep of Oladipupo, also named André.

That year, things did not go down well for Ajala. In March, 1953, he was arrested on the charges of forgery, grand theft and worthless check by the police of Beverly Hills, California. Ajala pleaded not guilty to the charges, he claimed he was duped by one Arnold Weiner who was an ex-bank accountant. Arnold Weiner in turn defended himself, he admitted showing Ajala how to write cheques but claimed he didn’t dupe him.

However, Ajala was sentenced to one year jail term and later deported from America. His deportation was not solely because of the forgery charges levelled against him but also because he had failed to keep up with his studies at the Santa Monica Junior College, thus invalidating his visa. Ajala resisted deportation and protested because, according to American authorities, he feared tribal execution. The authorities said Ajala was scared of being killed by his father if he was deported back to Nigeria which led to his protest.

Ajala had climbed an 80-foot radio tower where he screamed that he would rather leap to his death than be deported. Ajala protested on the tower for about 24 hours turning deaf ears to the pleas of the immigration authorities. He eventually jumped down from a height of 15 feet but was lucky to only have sustained a sprained back. The authorities also said Ajala, after the tower protest, embarked on hunger strike which Ajala debunked. He claimed he was only observing the 30-day Ramadan fasting. However, Ajala was flown to London instead of Nigeria. He had previously requested to be flown to Canada but his request was turned down because Canada refused to approve his application.

By December 1954, Ajala returned to America with his wife, Hermine Aileen who later divorced him in August 1955 on the charges that he was being adulterous. In December, that same year, Ajala married a 19-year-old white London radio-Tv actress, Joan Simmons.

Ajala the traveler maintained his global celebrity status for a while but soon went out of the limelight though his name still kept ringing in the ears of people. He retired to Nigeria where he lived with some of his children.

Things turned worse for the Ajala in his latter years as he fell from the famous and rich world traveller to a common man struggling to met his ends somewhere in Lagos, a rented apartment in a two-storey building on Adeniran Street, Bariga to be precise.

When Ajala fell sick, he couldn’t get adequate medical care because he didn’t have enough money, and his swarm of children were not there for him, only two of his children lived with him and they are: Olaolu Ajala, a 20-year-old student of Baptist Academy, Lagos and Bolanle Ajala, his 17-year-old daughter.

It is sad to know that the once world famous Ajala the traveler died a poor man on the 2nd of February, 1999 at the General Hospital, Ikeja as a result of paralysis from stroke. However, he has found a place for his name in the history of Nigeria and the world.

Thanks for reading, OldNaija.com

Innovative Travels- The story of Ajala travel all over the world
Tunji, Bolaji. ‘Sad End of Olabisi Ajala.’, The Guardian, 20 February 1999, pages 8-9.
African Actor Jailed For Worthless Checks, Jet, 12 th March, 1953, page 46.
Abiyamo- The Untold Story of AJALA TRAVEL, Africa’s Most Legendary Traveller

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34 comments.

Aw! Such a sad end. ????Ajala travel all over the world…

A sad end indeed! Thanks for visiting and dropping a comment, La. Kindly do visit again.

What a piece of edu-formation. Job well done.

So educative. So informative.

Thank you for visiting and dropping such a kind comment,Mr Abbey Baloo. We are glad you find this educative and informative. Kindly do visit again.

This is about my first time of reading a story about the famous man. It’s very important for a man to be careful in his choice of and dealing with women when it comes to marital affairs. It goes a long way in determining the rise or fall of a man. Nice work, OldNaija. Keep it up.

Thank you for your visit and priceless comment, Mr. Lekan Bello. You have indeed spoken well. Behind a successful man, they say, is A woman. We hope people will learn from his story. Kindly do visit again sir.

Eventually a movie will be made about this great adventurer.

It should, and very soon, we hope. Thanks for your visit and comment, Mr. Yacub. Kindly do visit again.

Yes o, what a great guy. Many Nigerian didnt know about him. I listen to one of Ayinde Barrister songs when the duo had issues. I had to research further for details of the famed Ajala. He was an interesting Nigerian. His life exploit should be well documented. Those guys lived in an interesting time and enjoyed life to the fullest.

Well said. They really enjoyed it to the fullest. Thanks for stopping by, Mr. Jinadu. Please, visit again.

this my first time of reading the story,it’s educative nd informative,though his life ended in a sad way.

A sad way indeed. Thanks for your visit, Abu. Kindly do visit again.

This is a very interesting historical piece, very educative, full of knowledge especially to every successful being, men have to be very careful and always know that no condition is permanent. All prospective and successful men should be careful about women, as success attracts more women, so men should be careful. Kudos to the compiler of this story.

Thank you for your visit and comment, Mr. Alabi Qozim Hamby. Kindly do visit again

Its a pleasure, I will.

What about Ajala’s service in the military during the civil war and his escapade with alhaja of ‘obokun’ fame popularised by inimitable Ebenzer Obey

Please send the story if you have it. Should be interesting.

Your writeup are refreshing. For a student,the sky is your lowest limit.I hail you

Thank you so much for visiting and dropping such a nice comment, dearest Ayoade. Kindly do visit again.

Anyone know where I can buy the book “An African Abroad”. Had a copy in college but had to return it. Been searching for a copy for sale for years with no success

wow what a pity and amazing traveler, this is wonerful to heard a very good and educative story of a man who toured so many countries with a vespa wow its not easy. i salute him may his soul rest in peace. thank you, and god bless

Thanks for your visit and comment, Mr. Shinkafi. Kindly do check back.

What sad way to finish his sojourn on earth! One should should tread with caution, fear of God, clear direction men should always watch the ways with adulterous lifestyle – it doesn’t end well. I must commend you Teslim, you did a nice work. I like the part of acknowledging your sources by stating… bravo brother!

You have indeed spoken well. Adultery is not and will never be a friend to man’s destiny. Thank you for your visit and kind words, Mr. Felicity. Kindly do visit again, and speaking of visiting again, you can subscribe to our mailing list to get notified of latest updates and exclusive contents. Have a wonderful day.

What a sadden end

A very sad end indeed. Thanks for your visit and comment, Mr. Ogungbenro. Kindly do check back, and speaking of checking back, you can subscribe to our mailing list to get notified of latest updates and exclusive contents. Have a wonderful night.

very interesting,I heard the song by ebenizer obey but I never knew ajala the Traveller exist. aside from the way he lived his life, I think the Nigeria government deserve to honor him or immortalize him for promoting our culture with the agbada on a bicycle. pls can u give the source I can get any other of his posture on the bicycle with the agbada,thanks and Go bless u for this information on olabisi ajala the Traveller. I will be expecting your reply,thanks once again

Thanks for the story. But on the other hand, let us think of how to eradicate this bane of once-young-successful-and influential-but-dying-poor-and-unsung syndrome. Let me suggest that you make a research on some of our past successful youths who had died poor and publish your op-ed on this platform for distribution, offering possible solutions about prevention and alleviation, if it does happen.

Hmm…What a pathetic end.Ajala had everything but took them for granted.Anyways,I love oldnaija and look to hearing more from you guys.How come a book wasn’t written about Ajala…..?

What a wonderful story, thanks for the writeup Teslim. Always amazed each time I read the story of Ajala. Sad how he ended his sojourn, God knows best though.

You are welcome, Dr. Abanikannda. Thanks for your time too. It was indeed a sad end for Ajala and a lesson for many more.

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The Story Of AJALA TRAVEL, Africa’s Most Legendary Traveler

August 3, 2016

Europe had Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, James Cook, and Marco Polo, Asia had its Ibn Battuta and Zheng He and Africa had OLABISI AJALA. He was one of the foremost Nigerian icons of cultural history, the quintessential explorer.

A very Nigerian man at heart and a proud African in soul, Ajala shattered all records of travel, voyaging into lands that no black person had ever seen not to talk of setting their feet there. Ajala had the world in his pockets and the world bowed at his guts. From the physical boundaries of nations to the piercing demarcations of racism, Ajala tore through them all.

Birth And Early Days

Born Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala in Ghana to an African Muslim father with four wives, Ajala grew up in a large family. He was one out of 25 children. In his own words in his legendary book, An African Abroad, he said: ‘I was born in Ghana, of Nigerian parents, and brought up in Nigeria, where I had my schooling at the Baptist Academy, Lagos, and Ibadan Boys’ High School. At the age of eighteen I went to America to further my studies. My father, a traditionalist who belongs to the old school…’

Ajala’s initial goal was to study medicine and as a matter of fact, he was the first black student to be pledged by the Delta Upsilon Pi ‘fratority’, a co-educational Greek-letter organization at De Paul University in Chicago in January 1952 where he was a pre-medical student. He was so active that he was made the feature editor of the campus newspaper, the De Paulian. Ajala said at that time that once he became a medical doctor he was going to return to Africa to in his words ‘wage war on voodoo and other superstitions.’ He said he was proud of his 24 siblings, one of whom was a student in England. He never fulfilled his dream of becoming a medical doctor as he stumbled on something far more enchanting.

Love And Marriage

Charismatic and charming, Ajala was a man of so many women.

In early 1953, a baby boy weighing six pounds and eight ounces was born to a former Chicago nurse named Myrtle Bassett who was residing in Los Angeles. This lady said Ajala was the father of the baby and had previously filed a paternity suit against him when he flatly refused he was the father. But the mother of the child countered saying Ajala did not only name the baby (Oladipupo), he also signed the birth certificate. Ajala stuck to his guns and insisted he was not the father. He told Jet that time that: ‘1. The mother had refused to have blood tests for the baby so he could prove he was not its father. 2. He had contributed $300 to cover the medical and hospital expenses to cancel a restraining order against his $300-a-week salary at 20th Century-Fox Studio, where he completed work in the movie White Witch Doctor and 3. He had given her $150 after the child’s birth and promised $200-a-month for support, pending settlement of the case.’ Ajala was scheduled to begin work in Columbia Studio’s movie Killer Ape on the 2nd of February 1953 when all this allegations and court issues about paternity came. In fact, Ajala planned to launch a countersuit to the paternity case saying:

It is the only way I can prove that I am innocent of the charges. She refuses to submit the baby to a blood test. I think it is a trick.

Eventually, when the lady in question said she was ready for the blood tests, Mr. Ajala was nowhere to be found and the court had to rule against him. In March 1953, a Los Angeles domestic court ordered Ajala to pay Myrtle Bassett the sum of $10 per week for support of her baby boy, Oladipupo.

In August 1955 in London, United Kingdom, Ajala revealed to journalists that he and his American wife, Hermine Aileen were divorced and that he was planning to marry his 19-year-old white London radio-TV actress Joan Simmons in December of the same year. Hermine had divorced him over adultery and when Ajala was questioned about the philandering charges pressed by his wife, he said curtly: ‘This, I am not contesting.’

§ When Ajala passed through Australia in his trip, he met and fell in love with a local girl, whom he married. This union sparked the interest of many because as at that time, only about 100 blacks (Aborigines) had become Australian citizens and most of them did so via marriage.

In 1955, he married a British actress Joan Simmons aged 19.

Recall that Ajala had many children from his various romantic liaisons with women. One of the most striking stories of his children includes that of the child mentioned earlier on, the one he had with Myrtle Bassett. Ajala did not set his eyes on the child for 23 years and when he finally met him in December 1976, he was ecstatic with joy. This was how it happened. After the court ruled in Bassett’s favor, Ajala soon disappeared from the radar and when he turned 46, he was overwhelmed with so much guilt that he said of the meeting with Oladipupo (then called Andre). Ajala explained: ‘I was very happy to find Andre. He is my oldest son and he is so full of life. Im overjoyed that I found him.’

Ajala was just 24 and a student at Roosevelt University in Chicago when he met a student nurse there and later moved to Los Angeles with her and shortly gave welcomed the baby boy. But a couple of months after Andre was born, Ajala had ajala-ed himself back to Nigeria, leaving his family behind. But the shame was too much for him as a father and decided to return to the United States to find his son whom he found in New York already working as a musician and a guitarist. An excited Ajala said he would love his son to visit Nigeria the following year (1977) and perform at the World Black Arts Festival (1977).

Bicycling Across The United States

Fame came to Moshood Ajala in 1952 when he decided to embark on a lecture tour across the United States from Chicago to Los Angeles, all on a bicycle. Aged 22, Ajala set out on the 12th of June 1952 from Chicago on a bicycle tour covering an incredible 2,280 miles. He arrived the Los Angeles City Hall on 10thof July, two days ahead of his 30-day schedule. Upon arrival, Ajala was received by the city mayor Fletcher Bowron. While narrating his experience of the cross-country tour, Mr. Ajala said everything was generally fine and the only nasty incident was a time in Topeka, Kansas where he was jailed for 44 hours after the white YWMA refused him a room and called the police when he protested (kindly note that that was time when the United States of America was bitterly divided with segregation politics gaining ground). A man not to be cheated, Ajala filed a suit against the Topeka YMCA and its secretary via the Nigerian ambassador in Washington. He was determined no one was going to mess with a Nigerian citizen and get away with it, not even a band of unruly Americans in Kansas.

But what was the purpose of his travel? Ajala was a psychology junior at the Roosevelt College in Chicago and his goal for the tour was to educate the American public on the progress made by his native West African country of Nigeria. The tour included stops to deliver lectures at 11 major cities. Ajala also did his tour wearing native Nigerian costumes described as ‘elaborately flowered robes with a felt-like head-dresses to match’, to which Ajala said:…will show and prove to Americans that we do not go about nakedly in loin clothes.’

Ajala The Actor

Following his daring bicycle trip across continental United States, Ajala became the darling of many. Newspaper journalists besieged him and he was made a celebrity overnight. Deals, endorsements and contracts came flying at him. One of such was the movie contract he signed with Eagle-Lion Studios in Hollywood in August 1955, the deal involved making a series of drama and spy films with European and African backgrounds.

After his deportation from the United States, Ajala proceeded to Canada and spent nine months perfecting his acting skills. It was while he was there that he starred in the stage play Lost In The Stars.

Brushes With American Law And The Deportation

A free-spirited individual known for crashing into movies amongst other interesting ways of expressing his liberty, it was not long before Ajala surfaced on the American security radar. In July 1953, things had taken turn for the worse for Ajala. But what happened?

In March 1953, the police of Beverly Hills, California arrested and jailed Ajala on three felony charges. He was accused on one count of forgery, two grand theft and three, worthless cheque charges. To add to his trouble, he had also been sued by a former Chicago nurse for refusing to accept paternity of his child. Back to the forgery case, specific charges against Ajala indicated that he made attempts to work a ‘bunko’ game by opening a savings account at a branch of Bank of America under the fake name of ‘Edward Hines’ then made deposits at other branches with worthless cheques. Officials said Ajala made five of such phony deposits of about $450.

He was eventually found guilty of forgery and deported from the United States of America, he was aged 24, an exchange student from Africa and an actor. Ajala was not really deported solely because of the grand theft charges (to which he pleaded not guilty before Judge Orlando H. Rhodes), he became a subject of deportation also because he failed to maintain his studies at the Santa Monica Junior College, thus invalidating his visa. For the forgery and grand theft charges, Ajala pleaded not guilty saying with all firmness and seriousness that he was duped by Arnold Weiner, a white male ex-bank accountant. Weiner said while it was true that he showed Ajala how to write cheques, he did not dupe him in anyway.

However, it must be stated that Ajala’s deportation was not without drama. After he was convicted of passing bad cheques in Los Angeles, Ajala was ordered by the American authorities to be deported to England from Ellis Island, New York but Ajala resisted and you know what he did? While awaiting deportation at the Terminal Island in Los Angeles after he was given a one-year suspended jail term, Ajala climbed an 80-foot radio tower and threatened to kill himself . From atop the tower, Ajala screamed that he ‘would rather leap to my death’ than be deported. Mr. Ajala was on the tower for almost 24 hours while the immigration authorities pleaded with him. Finally, Ajala fell to the ground from a height of 15 feet. He was examined by doctor at the island’s hospital and they said all he suffered was just a sprained back. Immigration authorities said Ajala made the death threat because he feared what they called ‘tribal execution’ if he was packaged back to Nigeria.

Immigration officials said Ajala dreaded tribal execution so much so that when the judge sentenced him to a one-year suspended sentence, Ajala dropped to his knees two times and touched the floor with his forehead saying he was ‘calling on Allah’ to bless the judge for the ‘mercy’ shown as the sentence might just save him from execution back home in West Africa.

When Ajala noted that his protest at the order of the immigration authorities did not work, he embarked on a 30-day fast which the immigration officials translated it to mean a hunger strike to stop his deportation, while Ajala insisted he was simply observing his Ramadan fasting as dictated by his Islamic faith. Whatever the case, Mr. Ajala was deported and gallantly flown to London. Immigration officer Justin Bennett confirmed his deportation without any fear of any execution and also stated that Ajala’s request to be sent to Canada was rejected because Canada has refused to approve his application.

Upon arriving in the United Kingdom, Ajala said he was going to work on a new movie at the Ealing Studios in London and talked of his plans to return to the United States.

By September 1954, Ajala was back in the United States with his American-born wife, Hermine Aileen. He explained to reporters that the deportation order only banned him from stepping on American soil and his plan was to resume his acting career in California.

The Global Travel

He visited nations such as India, Russia (then the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, USSR), Jordan, Iran (not an Islamic Republic then but a monarchy and America’s greatest ally in the region headed by a monarch), Jordan, Israel and Australia using nothing but a motor-scooter (popularly called Vespa) and met with some of the most powerful people in the world.

These included personalities like Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa who was Nigeria’s first prime minister, Marshal Ayub Khan of Pakistan, Golda Meir of Israel (she was the first female prime minister of the nation), Makarios III of Cyprus, Jawarhalal Nehru of India, Nikita Khrushchev of the USSR, the Shah of Iran (Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi), Gamal Nasser of Egypt, General Ignatius Acheampong of Ghana, Odinga Oginga, former vice president of Kenya and others. Ajala released a book titled An African Abroad documenting all his experiences on the trip, the book was supposed to be the first volume of a trilogy. In all, he visited over 85 countries with his scooter over a period of six years.

Slide Into Penury

Ajala had seen it all, from the greatest displays of wealth to the stupefying corridors of power. But somehow, by the time death came knocking, he was one of the poorest Nigerians alive.

On February 2, 1999, the man fondly known as “Ajala travel” died. He died in penury. The world famous Ajala died unsung and unrecognized.

His grave in central Lags is no different from any other. For more than a year, Ajala suffered. He had a stroke which paralyzed his left limb. But his army of children were not there to give him succor. He only had two of them around, Olaolu Ajala, a 20-year-old student of Baptist Academy, Lagos and Bolanle Ajala, his 17-year-old daughter who had just finished her senior secondary education at the Baptist High School, Bariga, Lagos. With him also in his last hour was another teenager, 14-year-old Wale Anifowoshe. Wale was especially fond of him. He kept all Ajala’s money, the little there was.

Some of his children who could not be with him include Dante, Femi, Lisa and Sydney all of whom are based in Australia. They are the children of his Australian wife, Joan. Some of his other children are also spread around the globe. There are Taiwo and Kehinde in the United States as well as Bisola in England. But all were not around to bid their father a final goodbye except Olaolu and Bolanle.

Indeed it is a sad end for a man whose scooter is now a national monument. Noone oof his numerous wives was around to bid him goodbye to the world beyond.

His first wife, Alhaja Sade, could not find time during the year-long sickness of her husband until he finally died. She lives in Ikotun, a suburb of Lagos. “We told her that he was sick and she told us she would come, but we never saw her, “ Olaolu said. He was not sure whether she is aware that her husband is dead. Joan only got in touch with him through correspondence. There are also Mrs. Toyin Ajala in England and Mrs. Sherifat Ajala, mother of his last daughter, Bolanle. But they were not around to tend to the man when he was battling with his sickness. A neighbor in Bariga who spoke on condition of anonymity said “he could have survived if he had had adequate care.” Adequate care was indeed far from the late globe-trotter. In no other place was this manifested than his residence, a rented apartment in a two-storey building on Adeniran Street, Bariga . Climbing two flights of stairs to the top floor, one is immediately confronted with the way life had treated Ajala. A passage leads into a 16-by-12 feet sitting room.

The sitting room, devoid of carpet, has a table with about five locally made iron chairs in a corner which serves as the dining table. An old black and white television set sits uncomfortably in an ill-constructed shelf. The cushion on the sofa hurts the buttock as it has become flat. The curtains on the windows of the two bedroom flat shows signs of old age. It is indeed a story of penury.

Legacy And Honours

Ebenezer Obey immortalized him in his song below through which many Nigerians first heard of him.

Olabisi Ajala was more than an inspiring compatriot; he was the very personification of adventure. A truly thrilling a pan-African voyager who made the best of his time the way he deemed best, he remains a global citizen and a legend in his own right. At a time when millions of Nigerian youths are scared and utterly petrified of anything that even remotely reeks of exploration or adventure, the story of Ajala Travel should be more than an inspiration to conquer the world. He conquered the world the way he could, let us do the same and leave our marks in the warps of time.

Olabisi Ajala, An African Abroad, (Jarrolds, London, 1963).
Deported Nigerian Actor Returns To US With Wife, page 58, Jet, 16th September 1954.
African Actor To Wed White British Actress, page 19, Jet, 25th August, 1955.
Moshood Olabisi Ajala, People Profile, Jet, 7th August, 1952.
African Cyclist Near End of ‘Cross Country’ Tour, Jet, 17th July 1952.
James Olney, Tell Me Africa: An Approach to African Literature, page 47.
Jet, 25th December, 1952, page 54.
Pause For Globe-Girdler, Jet, 18th September, 1958.
Oladipo GB Ogunseitan, Be Afra, Volume 1, page 528-530.
Tunji, Bolaji. ‘Sad End of Olabisi Ajala.’, The Guardian, 20 February 1999, pages 8-9.

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Olabisi Ajala: The 26 year-old Nigerian Globe-Trotter

Olabisi ajala: how 26 year-old nigerian globe-trotter toured the world on a motorcycle.

Neusroom’s Michael Orodare writes about ‘Ajala the Traveller’ who toured 85 countries in six years.

Written by Michael Orodare for Neusroom

18 September 2020

You may be familiar with the evergreen 1972 album – ‘Board Members’ by the legendary Nigerian juju musician Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi.

If you’re not, here’s a brief summary: The 38-minute long album was full of praises and philosophy. It was one of the most successful Nigerian albums ever released, it broke sales charts and earned Obey and his Inter Reformers band a place in the history of African music. But Obey, who also used his music for education and social commentary created another star from that album. His name? Ajala.

It was not a stand alone track by itself. But the chorus went, to use today’s parlance, viral.

“Alajala mi Omo Olola, Alajala mi Omo Olola; Alajala mi Oko Alhaja Sade…Ajala travel all over the world, Ajala travel all over the world, Ajala travel, Ajala travel, Ajala travel all over the world.”

The name Ajala and his story became a lexicon in the Nigerian parlance. Here is the story behind the man and why everyone who loves travelling is easily nicknamed after him.

So Who Was Ajala?

Mashood Olabisi Ajala’s exploits were relatively unknown until Obey made him a global star. Before the tour of the world that made him popular, Ajala had, while studying in the United States, aged 23, bicycled 2,280 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles.

In its December 11, 1952 publication, Jet magazine reported that this adventure landed Ajala a role as a second male lead in 20th Century-Fox’s adventure movie ‘White Witch Doctor’ in 1952, joining a cast headed by Susan Hayward and Robergt Mitchum. The contract, according to the Jet, was worth $300 a week and he played the role of Ola, a companion of Loni (Mitchum) a famous African hunter.

Born in 1929 in Ghana to a Nigerian father with four wives and 25 children, Ajala started crossing borders at a young age when his family relocated to Nigeria. Back home in Nigeria he was educated at Baptist Academy in Lagos and Ibadan Boys’ High School in Ibadan, Oyo State where he graduated in 1946, according to the school’s nominal roll seen by Neusroom.

With the disapproval of his father and the blessings of his father’s four wives and his 25 siblings as he narrated in his 1961 article published in the West African Review, Ajala left Nigeria for the United States in 1952 to study at Roosevelt College in Chicago.

ajala the traveller place of birth neusroom

Ajala made newspaper headlines with his bicycle tour from Chicago to Los Angeles in Yoruba native attire. Photo: Elite Tribune. Designer: Kume Akpubi

His first movie role in 1952 also came from recommendations from actor Ronald Reagan whom he met in London three years before travelling to the U.S. Reagan later became the President of the United States.

But everything changed one year later, Ajala, who was enjoying media attention for his travel and acting exploits, ran into trouble with the U.S authorities. In February 1953, he was arrested and jailed on three counts of grand theft in Los Angeles after he was charged with passing bad cheques under the name Edward Hines. He admitted the act but insisted he was duped by an American banker Arnold Weiner.

As if that was not enough, Ajala was also convicted for failing to maintain his studies at Santa Monica Junior College, a condition which invalidates his Visa. Adding to his many troubles, a Chicago nurse Myrtle Bassett also filed charges in a Los Angeles Court against him for refusing to accept paternity of his child. Apparently, when it rains, it pours.

Bassett claimed her child – Andre, was conceived in Chicago before Ajala embarked on his bicycle trip to California. He ‘promised’ to marry her but never returned to Chicago. Ajala was ordered by the courts to pay $10 per week to Bassett when he refused to show up to take the blood test he had demanded.

ajala the traveller with first indian prime minister neusroom

Ajala shares good time with India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, one of the world leaders fascinated by his tour. Photo: DailyFamilyNG Designer: Kume Akpubi.

Following the charges of failing to maintain his studies which invalidated his visa and grand theft, Ajala was ordered to be deported to England after pleading not to be deported to Nigeria. While in London he conceived the idea to globe-trott 40 countries in Europe, Asia and Africa on his Vespa scooter and he embarked on the journey on April 27, 1957. He was 26. He named his adventure – “This Safari” and said it would cover 30,000 miles across 40 countries in nine months and he would return to London afterwards.

He visited India, Russia (then the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, USSR), Jordan, Iran, Israel, Australia and many other nations on his motorcycle. At the end of the tour he had visited 85 countries in six years. In his memoir – ‘An African Abroad’ documenting his experience, Ajala narrated his encounter with some world leaders like Marshal Ayub Khan of Pakistan, Golda Meir (the first female Prime Minister of Israel), Makarios III of Cyprus, Jawaharlal Nehru of India, Nikita Khrushchev of the USSR, the Shah of Iran (Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi), Gamal Nasser of Egypt, General Ignatius Acheampong of Ghana, Odinga Oginga, former vice president of Kenya and others.during the tour.

On his encounter with the ex-president of Egypt, Gamal Abdel Nasser, Ajala wrote:

“Every day at 6am for the next two weeks, I was waiting directly in front of his presidential palace hoping he would come out. On the 13th day of my hitherto unpromising efforts, around 5pm President Naseer emerged from the interior of his residence heading for his car.”

During this tour, he ran into trouble with immigration officers at border points. At the border between Israel and Palestine, Ajala said he was almost shot for speeding across without permission and was accused of spying for Israel.

Miami Daily Newspaper of June 28, 1952, reports Ajala’s arrest in Topeka, Kansas, U.S. in June 1952, ‘for disturbing public peace’. Photo: Newspapers.com Designer: Kume Akpubi.

12 years after his graduation from Ibadan Boys High School (IBHS), on February 28, 1958, Ajala made, what could best be described as, a triumphant entry into his alma mater. In the school’s 80th anniversary commemorative magazine – ‘The Triumph of Resilience,’ published in October 2018, Ajala’s visit was described as the greatest event of that year in Ibadan Boys’ High School.

According to the magazine’s report, “His triumphant entry to the school was marked with all the songs and reception which any school could offer. Accompanied by cyclists, auto-cyclists and a large crowd, he rode in his 150 c.c. motor cycle through the guard of honour formed by the boys. He was heartily, proudly and warmly received by the Principal, who, incidentally, was his master at school.”

ajala the traveller in uzbekistan neusroom

Ajala at a Public Park in Tashkent, Uzbekistan in USSR: “In nearly all the 87 countries I’ve visited, I’ve met with brutality and racial intolerance. I’ve felt the bitter evil of man’s inhumanity to man, and have marveled at the goodness of the humane-hearted.” Photo: Guardian Nigeria Designer: Kume Akpubi

Ajala also stepped into the shoes of his father who enjoyed the company of many women. Apart from the mother of his first son, he was involved with other f women. He married an American Hermine Aileen who separated from him in 1955 over allegations of philandering, an allegation he never denied.

He also married a 19-year-old British radio-TV actress Joan Simmons. In 1962 when he got to Australia during his tour of the world, Ajala met and fell in love with a 28-year-old Australian lady, Joane Prettan, whom he married and had three children with.

Australia’s The Age Newspaper of December 22, 1962 reports Ajala’s marriage to Joane, an English and Music Teacher at Sefton High School, Sydney. Photo: Newspapers.com . Designer: Kume Akpubi

In England he married Toyin Ajala, and Mrs. Sherifat Ajala, the mother of his last daughter, Bolanle. His children are spread across the globe – in Nigeria, Australia and London.

The most popular among his Nigerian wives was Alhaja Shade who was mentioned in the famous Obey song “Alajala mi oko Alhaja Shade…Ore mi kama puro, kamu tegan kuro, Shade dara l’obirin,” that was Ebenezer Obey praising and attesting to Shade’s beauty in the album ‘Board Members’. In 1976, Ajala reunited with his 23-year-old musician son Oladipupo Andre whose paternity he had denied in 1953. Andre died in Oakland in January 2020 at age 67.

On June 18, 1998, Ajala the Traveller suffered a stroke that paralysed his left limb after falling on the balcony of his house in Bariga, a suburban community in Somolu local government area of Lagos. Living in Bariga was an indication that Ajala, who had toured the world and was a top Nigerian socialite, had seen better days.

The globe-trotter is reunited with his son Andre in the U.S, 23 years after denying his paternity. Photo: Newspapers.com Designer: Kume Akpubi.

His health got worse in January 1999 and he was rushed to the Lagos General Hospital in Ikeja on January 25, 1999, where he died 11 days after, on February 2, 1999. He was buried in Lagos. In his final days only three of his children – Olaolu, Bolanle and Anifowoshe, were around to bury him.

According to a February 1999 report in Nigeria’s Guardian newspaper, some of his children who could not be with him include Dante, Femi, Lisa and Sydney all of whom are based in Australia. Others also spread around the globe include – Taiwo and Kehinde in the U.S, and Bisola in England.

None of his numerous wives was around to bid him goodbye. Not even the famous Alhaja Sade, who lived in Ikotun, Lagos, at the time, visited Ajala while he was battling a stroke until he finally died. “We told her that he was sick and she told us she would come, but we never saw her,” Olaolu told Guardian.

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Ajala The Traveller: The Man And His Journeys

So, who is Ajala?

How did his journey go?

In his book “An African Abroad”, Olabisi narrated his encounter with the then president of Egypt, Gamal Abdel Nasser:

In his agbada, the heavily bearded Olabisi screamed as loud as he could and caught the attention of the president. He was heartily welcomed in by the president.

Ajala The Traveller in Moscow | Pinterest

Ajala The Traveller featured in Jet magazine 1952

Why did he leave the USA to continue schooling in London England?

Source: https://guardian.ng/life/ajala-the-traveller-the-man-and-his-journeys/

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Nigerian Explorer: Ajala’s Modern Exploration Legacy

Renowned as the Nigerian Christopher Columbus, Ajala, the intrepid traveler, continues to shape the nation’s exploration narrative. His journeys offer insights into cultural exchange and global perspectives.

Ajala’s expeditions span continents, fostering diplomatic ties and cultural understanding. His adventures echo a legacy that transcends borders, emphasizing unity through shared experiences.

Born into modest surroundings, Ajala’s early travels ignited a passion for discovery. With determination, he traversed uncharted territories, breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes. His voyages signify a commitment to expanding horizons and dismantling geographical boundaries.

In an era dominated by technological advances, Ajala’s reliance on traditional modes of transportation adds a unique flavor to his story. His use of local methods connects communities globally, fostering a sense of interconnectedness.

Despite facing challenges on his journeys, Ajala remains undeterred, emphasizing the importance of resilience in the pursuit of knowledge. His encounters with diverse cultures promote understanding, celebrating the richness of human diversity.

Ajala’s exploits extend beyond exploration; they embody the spirit of curiosity that transcends conventional norms. His commitment to dialogue and cultural exchange fosters a sense of shared humanity, laying the foundation for a more interconnected world.

In a world grappling with geopolitical tensions, Ajala’s narrative serves as a reminder of the power of individual actions to shape collective destinies. His story resonates as an inspiration for those seeking common ground amid global complexities.

As a symbol of Nigeria’s global presence, Ajala challenges preconceived notions, presenting a dynamic image that defies stereotypes. His legacy encourages a reevaluation of cultural narratives, emphasizing unity in diversity.

In an interconnected world, Ajala’s travels become a testament to the possibilities that emerge when individuals transcend borders. His experiences offer a blueprint for fostering global collaboration, illustrating the potential for positive change through dialogue and understanding.

Ajala’s story sparks discussions on the role of modern explorers in shaping the global landscape. His legacy challenges individuals to step out of their comfort zones, embracing diversity and cultural exchange as catalysts for progress.

As Nigeria navigates its role on the international stage, Ajala’s legacy becomes a source of inspiration for embracing a global perspective. His story resonates as a testament to the power of exploration in fostering diplomacy, understanding, and unity.

This article first appeared on The WIRE and is brought to you by Hyphen Digital Network

(The content powered by our AI models is produced through sophisticated algorithms, and while we strive for accuracy, it may occasionally contain a few minor issues. We appreciate your understanding that AI-generated content is an evolving technology, and we encourage users to provide feedback if any discrepancies are identified. As this feature is currently in beta testing, your insights play a crucial role in enhancing the overall quality and reliability of our service. We thank you for your collaboration and understanding as we work towards delivering an increasingly refined and accurate user experience.)

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The story of ajala travels.

Published by Temiloluwa oyeniyi on 14th June, 2022

If you are someone who travels a lot and enjoys it, that a week doesn’t go without you having to travel, then you must be familiar with people calling you “Ajala Travel.” On one or more occasions, people must have given you a compliment or eulogized you with a sigh or a thumbs up with ‘ hmm… you can travel for Africa, M.r Ajala travels ” and then with a nod to indicate that you will never listen even if they make an attempt to talk you out of traveling.

You must be wondering why the name ‘Ajala’ best suits the context of your love for traveling- many people grew up knowing that, but do not know the significance of the character and the story behind the context. Even though traditional history ignores Olabisi Ajala, the phrase “Ajala the traveler,” a moniker for the free-spirited and adventurous in Southwest Nigeria, ensures that he will never be forgotten.

In this piece, Naijabiography narrates the story behind the name ‘Ajala Travels’, who Ajala was and why people use him in that context, and of course, why people call you Ajala travels.

Once upon a time, there was a boy called Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, popularly known in his hometown as Ọlábísí Àjàlá. Ajala was a Nigerian journalist, travel writer, actor, and later a Lagos socialite. He is known for his adventures in Israel , Egypt , Palestine , India , the United States , and other countries. His lone book, An African Abroad, was released in 1963 and chronicled his travel adventures. His name is now synonymous with ‘travel’ in Nigeria. In Nigeria, his name is still used as a slang term to ridicule people who can’t seem to remain still. They’re known as ‘Ajala the Traveller.’

History of Ajala

Olabisi Ajala was born to a Nigerian family in Ghana in 1929 or 1934 . With roughly thirty offspring and four marriages, it was a polygamous family. The twenty-fifth was Olabisi. His family relocated to Nigeria when he was a child. In Lagos, he attended Baptist Academy, and in Ibadan, he attended Ibadan Boys’ High School.

In 1952 , he traveled to the United States at the age of eighteen to study pre-medicine at the University of Chicago. He was the first black student in the Delta Upsilon Pi fraternity , a co-ed Greek-letter organization , at the time. Later, he transferred to Roosevelt University (formerly known as “Roosevelt College”) to pursue a degree in psychology.

Ajàlá dreamed of a cross-country bicycle ride from Chicago to Los Angeles . The journey according to him was 28 days , and he travelled 2,280 miles . He set out on his journey on June 12th, 1952, and arrived at Los Angeles City Hall on July 10th . He received numerous honors as a result of the journey, including publicity in the main publications of the day. Ajàlá was greeted by Los Angeles mayor Fletcher Bowron when he arrived two days ahead of schedule. History has it that he never returned to Chicago.

He became a minor celebrity in Los Angeles and did numerous interviews. He was later cast in the film White Witch Doctor , produced by 20th Century Fox and based on the 1950 novel by Louise A. Stinetorf. Ronald Reagan , whom he had met three years before, had offered him the recommendation. He was also cast in the film “ Killer Ape ,” but he never started filming.

Many women surrounded him because of his stature. One of them was Myrtle Basset, a Chicago nurse who gave him his first child, ládipupo Andrei Ajala , who was born on January 21, 1953 . In Yoruba, the word ládipupo means “ wealth has multiplied. ” Ajàlá, on the other hand, had initially disputed the fatherhood of the child. When he refused to show up in court to take the blood test he had requested, the courts ordered him to pay ten dollars per week to the mother. Olaábisi then vanished, and ládipupo was not seen again until 1976 when he had become a pianist. Ládipupo passed away on January 19, 2020.

Why Ajala Travels?

He was sentenced to a year suspended jail term later after the court ruling, following a series of run-ins with American immigration for minor violations such as issuing fake checks. He was also ordered to be deported to Nigeria because he had abandoned his schoolwork—he had reportedly gone to Santa Monica Junior College but was not keeping up with his studies. He objected to the deportation order, claiming that he would be executed by his father in accordance with tribal custom. First, he scaled an 80-foot radio tower , threatening to commit suicide if the order was not overturned. He leapt down from around fifteen feet after nearly 13 hours and hurt his back. He was eventually deported, albeit to London rather than New York.

After some months, Ajala returned to the United States in December 1954 with a new wife, Hermine Aileen, a New York model . They made their home in Chicago. She divorced him in 1955 after accusing him of philandering and adultery, which he denied. He remarried in December 1955 , this time to Joan Simons, a 19-year-old London actress.

Ajàlá embarked on a “ round-the-world ” journey from London on April 27, 1957 . These would serve as the foundation for his biography, “An African Abroad,” published in 1963 with a preface by Tom Mboya. He intended to travel to 40 different countries but later toured about 87 countries on a motorcycle in the 1950s .

He wore his agbada – a Yoruba flowing gown – and a cap in every location he visited, a combination characterized as “elaborately patterned robes with a felt-like headdress to match.” Ajàlá travelled to India, the Soviet Union, Iran, Jordan, Israel, Palestine, Egypt, and eventually Australia in order to write the book.

He toured them all on his Vespa scooter, which was adorned with notable autographs from the celebrities he had met. He met many more people throughout his tour around the world, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Golda Meir, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Gamal Abdel Nasser, the Shah of Iran, and Nikita Khrushchev. Poland, Germany, Prague, Czechoslovakia, Austria, Yugoslavia, Albania, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, and Turkey were among the countries he visited.

If Mungo Park toured the African coast to “discover” the Niger River and Ferdinand Magellan circumnavigated the globe to prove the planet was spherical, Ajala travelled the globe to show the world African culture and Nigerians’ can-do élan.

As a result, Ajala represents Africa in the same way that Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, James Cook, and Marco Polo represent Europe, and Ibn Battuta al-Tanji and Zheng . He represented Asia , and his motorcycle was his compass, which he used to cross borders and confront racial intolerance’s harshness.

However, he also had run-ins with the authorities, first in the Soviet Union, when he was accused of attempting to assassinate Nikita Khrushchev by being too close to him in public, and again on the Israel-Palestine border, where he was almost shot for speeding across without authorization.

Later, the book was written as both a travelogue and a journalistic work. He shared his thoughts on how people lived in the countries he visited, as well as his thoughts on the political situation in Israel and Palestine and the world leaders he met.

Ajala Travel in Nigeria

Ajàlá afterward returned to Nigeria and became a well-known socialite. He went on to serve as an entertainment promoter and publicist for artists such as Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. They later had a squabble, which resulted in the end of their relationship.

Ebenezer Obey , for example, lauded him in song with the lines “You’ve visited every country on the planet. Ajàlá went on a round-the-world trip…” The phrase “Ajàlá travels” became associated with wanderlust and extended travel after it. This is why most Nigerians imbibed the phrase and instead of saying ‘you travel a lot they say “ájala travel.”

Because Ajala was influential, he became every lady’s man and he had women all around him from one state to another. In Sydney where his book was published, he married Joan and had three children with her. In subsequent years, especially when he dwelled in Nigeria, he married Alhaja Sadé and was said to have had children with a few more women in Nigeria.

Although he sustained his legacy and he’s been remembered for his ventures and adventures with his scooter, Ajàlá had a stroke in the early days of 1999 while living in Lagos and did not obtain sufficient treatment. Thus, on February 2, 1999 , he died of a stroke, but his children are in different parts of the world.

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RETRO: The Life and times of Ajala, the first Nigerian to travel round the world

So many people are familiar with the nickname, ‘Ajala Travel’. In recent times, it has become an apt name given to anyone who hits the road frequently; anyone who loves travelling or their work frequently demands travelling.

However, not many people know the history behind the popular nickname that has now become a metaphor for frequent travellers.

In this retro series, Legit.ng presents to you a scintillating history of the man whose nickname, Ajala Travel, has become associated with globetrotting; Ajala Olabisi.

Ajala Travel’s real names is Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala. He was born in Ghana in a polygamous household. His father had four wives and 25 children.

Ajala wrote about his background in his book 'An African Abroad': "I was born in Ghana, of Nigerian parents, and brought up in Nigeria, where I had my schooling at the Baptist Academy, Lagos, and Ibadan Boys’ High School. At the age of eighteen, I went to America to further my studies."

Brave Nigerian man riding his motorcycle from London to Lagos enters Africa, closes in on Casablanca, Morocco

READ ALSO: 19 facts to know about Muhammadu Aminu Sambo, first western educated person in Zaria

Ajala later proceeded to De Paul University in Chicago in America to study medicine. While in America, he became the first black student to be pledged by the Delta Upsilon Pi ‘fraternity, a co-educational Greek-letter organization at De Paul University.

Travelling exploit

Ajala's travelling adventures started in 1952 when he decided to embark on a cross-country tour of America with just his bicycle and agbada. Aged 22, Ajala set out on the 12th of June 1952 from Chicago on a bicycle tour covering an incredible 2,280 miles.He would cover 2,280 miles in 28 days starting from Chicago and ending in Los Angeles.

He arrived the Los Angeles City Hall on 10th of July, two days ahead of his 30-day schedule. Upon arrival, Ajala was received by the city mayor Fletcher Bowron.

Young man wins award and money in US for his farming skill, says Nigeria never celebrated him academically

RETRO: The Life and times of Ajala, the first Nigerian to travel round the world

Ajala would later embark on other globe trotting adventures thereby dumping his ambitions of becoming a doctor.

Thanks to his cross country journey in America, Ajala became famous in America and back home.

In his lifetime Ajala, the Traveller visited India, USSR, Jordan, Iran Jordan, Israel and Australia. Remarkably he did this on a Vespa. He also met and dined with a lot of world dignitaries.

Why did Ajala decided to embark on the travel?

Ajala's goal for the tour was reportedly to educate the American public on the progress made by his native West African country of Nigeria.

The tour included stops to deliver lectures at 11 major cities. Ajala also did his tour wearing native Nigerian costumes described as ‘elaborately flowered robes with a felt-like head-dresses to match’. Ajala said the dress '..will show and prove to Americans that we do not go about nakedly in loin clothes.’

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In 1972, the Nigerian music legend Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey, sang about the exploits of Ajala the Traveller in his 1972 hit album 'Board Members'.

Ajala's venture into acting

Following his daring bicycle trip across the United States, Ajala's popularity escalated and he became a celebrity overnight. He landed juicy deals, endorsements and contracts. One of such was the movie contract he signed with Eagle-Lion Studios in Hollywood in August 1955, the deal involved making a series of drama and spy films with European and African backgrounds.

How Ajala was deported from the US

In March 1953, the police of Beverly Hills, California arrested and jailed Ajala on three felony charges. He was accused on one count of forgery, two grand theft and three, worthless cheque charges.

He was also, at a point, sued by a former Chicago nurse for refusing to accept paternity of his child.

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He was eventually found guilty of forgery and deported from the United States of America, he was aged 24, an exchange student from Africa and an actor.

However, Ajala was not reportedly deported solely because of the grand theft charges but also because of his failure to maintain his studies at the Santa Monica Junior College, thus invalidating his visa.

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Ajala Travel was said to be in love with ladies too. He reportedly had several wives and children in some of the countries he visited.

Till his last years on earth and amidst daunting challenges, the adventurous spirit never left Ajala. In October 1997, few years before his death, he was planning another round of global voyage.

On the 2nd of February, 1999, Ajala Travel died abject poverty and scalding penury.

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On February 2, 1999, Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala alias Ajala Travel, died , in abject poverty; unsung and unrecognized, despite his fame.

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Source: Legit.ng

Black History: ‘Ajala Travel’, The Famous Nigerian Globetrotter Who Travelled Round The World On His Motor Bike

In the 1950s, a Nigerian known as Mashood Adisi Ajala Olabisi got worldwide attention for his traveling adventures.

The renowned globetrotter visited 87 countries in six years and mostly on his bicycle, but sometimes used a motor scooter. In 1972, Olabisi also known as “Ajala Travel”, was described in many Nigerian songs as Africa’s greatest traveler, with Nigerian music legend Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey singing about his exploits. Born in Ghana in a polygamous household, Ajala later moved to Nigeria to school and went to the US at age 18 where he started his traveling adventures in the 50s. In 1952, he decided to embark on a cross-country tour of America with just his bicycle and agbada. He would cover 2,280 miles in 28 days starting from Chicago and ending in Los Angeles.

“From America, I went to Canada (where I spent a couple of years) and later on to Britain. In 1957 I began my one-man Odyssey around the world. It is still going on as I write this in Sydney, Australia. In nearly all the eighty-seven countries I have visited during my six-year jaunt around the world (ranging from North America to Eastern and Western Europe, through Africa and Asia, and as far east as Korea, Indonesia, and Australia), I have observed many different political regimes both in democratic and communist states. I have met with brutality and racial intolerance. I have felt the bitter evil of man’s inhumanity to man, and have marbled at the goodness of the humane-hearted,” Ajala wrote in his book “An African Abroad.”

Ajala was then studying medicine at De Paul University in Chicago in America but his traveling adventures did not make his dream of becoming a doctor materialize.

He rather ended up acting in some movies after his cross-country journey in America won the hearts of many.

He, however, got into trouble with the law in America and had to be deported from the country.

On February 2, 1999, Ajala died in abject poverty despite his fame.

Throughout his lifetime, he wined and dined with heads of state and leaders including the late Alhaji Tafawa Balewa, the First Republic Prime Minister of Nigeria; the late Marshall Ayub Khan of Pakistan; the late President Makarios of Greece; the late Paudit Nehru of India; and the late Abdel Nasser of Egypt.

Despite this, the famous Ajala died without a penny and with little recognition. It is documented that his grave in central Lagos is just like any other grave – nothing extraordinary.

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New beginnings

Olabisi Ajala

Olabisi Ajala , popularly known as “Ajala the traveller”, was the gregarious globe-trotting Nigerian who, in a one-man odyssey which began at his twenty-seventh year, met many leaders of the world and supposedly visited eighty-seven countries, mostly on a bicycle. Ajala, born in 1930 in Ghana, was hailed in the Ebenezer Obey ’s popular song of the 1970s, “Ajala travels all over the world.”

Ajala schooled in Nigeria and travelled at the age of 18 to the United States to study Psychology at Roosevelt College. There, he started his journeys, stopping to deliver lectures on “present day Africa”. Once in his journey, Ajala defied a heavy police guard in Berlin, East Germany, to deliver a letter of thanks to Mr. Nikita Khrushchev, Prime Minister of Soviet Russia for allowing him to cross the Iron curtain. There was also an event, when visiting a children’s orphanage in Warsaw, Poland, that a little girl who had never seen a black man, burst into tears at the sight of him.

Ajala left Warsaw for Prague, Czechoslovakia,and to Austria on the next stage of his two- year’s round-the-world trip by motor scooter. In 1957 he changed his schedule and decided not to visit Soviet Union immediately, as he had planned earlier. He was particularly anxious to avoid the cold of the Russian winter. He spent six monhts in Africafrom mid-November to May 1958. He visited Yugoslavia, and Albania, arriving in Hungary about the beginning of October and then Bulgaria and Rumania. Ajala thereafter travelled through Turkey to North Africa. His journeys came to an end in 1963, and of his life, in 1999. Ajala mentioned in his autobigraphy, his encounter with brutality and racial intolerance ; the bitter evil of man’s inhumanity to man. He also revealed he had marbled at the goodness of the humane-hearted.

Ajala The Traveler: New Captivating Documentary Unveils the Incredible Journeys of Africa’s First World Traveler

By Nollywire
11 months ago

Renowned filmmaker and lawyer, Ayo Shonaiya, is set to take audiences on an awe-inspiring journey with his upcoming documentary series titled “Ajala The Traveler.” This groundbreaking production unveils the remarkable adventures of Olabisi Ajala, Africa’s first world traveler, who traversed 87 countries between 1957 and 1962, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

“Ajala The Traveler,” directed by Ayo Shonaiya and co-produced by Shonaiya and Olabisi Ajala Jr, delves into the extraordinary life of Olabisi Ajala. The Yoruba man from Nigeria defied the norms of his time by embarking on an audacious global expedition aboard a humble scooter. The documentary explores his encounters across North America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, where he unintentionally became an ambassador, meeting heads of state, presidents, and prime ministers along the way. His enthralling journey and subsequent book, “An African Abroad,” have made him a legend.

In addition to his travels, Olabisi Ajala was also a renowned Hollywood actor, starring alongside icons such as Robert Mitchum and former US President Ronald Reagan. As a show promoter, he paved the way for Nigerian artists to perform in Europe, leaving a lasting impact on the African music scene.

“Ajala The Traveler” not only tells the fascinating story of Olabisi Ajala but also follows the journey of his last son, Olabisi Ajala Jr, as he embarks on a quest to meet his global siblings for the first time. This heartwarming documentary captures Olabisi Ajala Jr’s dream of organising a momentous “family reunion” and showcases the emotional and enlightening experiences he encounters during his worldwide journey.

Ajala The Traveler- New Captivating Documentary Unveils the Incredible Journeys of Africa's First World Traveler 4

Narrated by Olabisi Ajala Jr, the documentary interweaves exclusive footage, interviews with those who knew Olabisi Ajala intimately, and rare, unpublished photographs and family films. “Ajala The Traveler” takes audiences on an inspirational and exhilarating voyage through time, uncovering the birth and legacy of the legendary name “Ajala.” This true African story of global proportions symbolizes the spirit of travel and exploration, inspiring generations to come.

Production for “Ajala The Traveler” is scheduled to commence in September 2023. The documentary is a collaborative effort by R70, Opulence Mind LLC, Kola Tubosun, and Abby Ogunsanya. With Ayo Shonaiya at the helm, whose previous work includes the critically acclaimed Netflix documentary “Afrobeats: The Backstory,” audiences eagerly await the release of “Ajala The Traveler” and the extraordinary tale it promises to unfold.

Ajala The Traveler- New Captivating Documentary Unveils the Incredible Journeys of Africa's First World Traveler 3

As the world prepares to be captivated by the life of Olabisi Ajala, this forthcoming documentary guarantees an immersive and unforgettable experience, shining a spotlight on a man whose name has become synonymous with travel in Nigeria and beyond.

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David Ajala Explains Star Trek: Discovery Seemingly Ending Cleveland Booker's Story In Season 4, And Why He’s Glad He Returned For Season 5

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Watching Star Trek: Discovery 's final season, I find it hard to imagine what it'd look like without David Ajala's Cleveland Booker in the mix. Fans were delighted to see him return in early trailers, to the point where Sonequa Martin-Green was surprised by his reveal , given what happened to the character in Disco 's Season 4 ending . I was just as baffled at the time, but the actor was fortunately able to set the record straight on Book's return, and why he's glad it all worked out.

David Ajala was kind enough to speak to CinemaBlend ahead of another Booker-heavy episode that'll make this month's Paramount+ subscription cost worth it. I mentioned how heavily his character's story has been incorporated into Season 5, and asked why Star Trek: Discovery seemingly wrote him off back when he was sent to help refugees as penance for his betrayal of the Federation. Ajala cleared up the situation, recalling both Booker's fake-out death in the finale and his eventual punishment that sent him away from the ship:

It's funny because I remember reading the [Season 4 finale] episode and thinking, ‘Oh, so Cleveland Booker is out of here,' and then, you know, seeing the reveal. It was fun because it was such a superb dramatic beat. But I was only meant to be on the show for two seasons, Seasons 3 and 4. As fate would have it, the stars aligned, and the producers and powers that be wanted to flesh out Cleveland Booker's story a little more and gave me the invitation to come back, which I graciously accepted.

There were no guarantees that David Ajala would remain with Star Trek: Discovery after his contract was up, so it seems that story decision was landed on as a way to offer wiggle room to the writers to explain away his absence had the actor not been available to return. Fortunately, it all worked out, and while we don't know exactly when the decisions were made, Ajala confirmed to CinemaBlend in December of 2022 that he would appear in Season 5. Suffice it to say, this fan was not shocked to see him in the trailers.

As is widely reported at this point, no one involved in Star Trek: Discovery knew Season 5 would be the final outing when it was in production, so it's a blessing David Ajala did agree to return for another season. The actor continued, sharing why he's been so grateful for this additional story, and how it benefitted the character of Cleveland Booker overall.

And I'm so happy that my ‘yes’ was yes because we've been really able to dig into a much more well-rounded individual. Not perfect, well-rounded. Whose strengths and weaknesses have been so publicly displayed, and whose fall from grace has been so publicly displayed. I think it shows great character with his leaving Booker because he's able to bounce back and still be of service to many people.

Star Trek: Discovery fans still have more to see from Cleveland Booker, and at least some confirmation from star Sonequa Martin-Green that we'll get a sense of where he and Michael stand . David Ajala also teased to CinemaBlend that he's very excited for fans to see a particular scene , and I'm really curious if it involves Booker and the lead of Discovery .

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I'm hoping to see as much of Cleveland Booker as I possibly can, knowing that there may not be much room for him on Star Trek television in the future. Unless Book joins Starfleet, I don't really see him appearing on upcoming Trek shows like Starfleet Academy , which is also set in the 32nd century. Stranger things have happened, however, and it's hard to believe that at least one or two stars from Discovery series won't be a part of this in-development spinoff.

As for what's coming for Cleveland Booker in the immediate future, it seemed he managed to gain some headway with rival courier Moll, who is the daughter of his mentor, the original Cleveland Booker. Perhaps she and L'ak can ultimately be shifted into allies, rather than enemies who intend to hand a dangerous technology to the Breen in exchange for their freedom. Hopefully, he can convince them to work with Starfleet before it's too late.

Star Trek: Discovery continues its final season on Paramount+ with new episodes on Thursdays. Don't miss the back half of this season, as the action is only sure to heat up as we head to that big finish filmed after the show was canceled.

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Today Is Lei Day — Everything to Know About the Hawaiian Day of Celebration

And why you should never throw one away.

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In Hawaiian culture, the lei symbolizes celebration, friendship, and the true meaning of the aloha spirit — and there's no greater feeling than being greeted with one upon arrival to the islands.

“A lei is an expression of love and can be given on any occasion, not just a special occasion,” Monte McComber, Culture Director at Royal Hawaiian Center, told Travel + Leisure , noting that wearing lei in Hawaii is common practice and not just for tourists — in fact, there is a celebration of it every May 1, known as Lei Day.

The holiday began in 1927 when poet Don Blanding declared there should be a holiday celebrating the act of giving and receiving a lei, according to Honolulu's government site. Blanding shared his idea with his Honolulu Star Bulletin co-worker, Grace Tower Warren, who decided the holiday should be celebrated on May Day and coined the phrase “May Day is Lei Day.”

In 1928, the inaugural Lei Day was celebrated in downtown Honolulu, and the following year it was proclaimed that "May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii” on May 1 by then-Governor Wallace R. Farrington. “It is one of the biggest cultural celebrations of the year and one of my personal favorites to celebrate and share with visitors,” Tuivaioge said. Although it's not a state holiday, festivities include school celebrations for kids, a May Day lei court — complete with a king and queen — where each of the islands are represented by a princess and prince, music, hula, food, and, of course, plenty of fresh lei to showcase and share. “The tradition here in the Islands on May 1st is to make a lei, wear a lei, and give a lei,” McComber shared. This year, the largest Lei Day celebration is held on Oahu and this year’s 96th Annual Lei Day event will be held on Wednesday at Kapiolani Park in Honolulu.

skodonnell/Getty Images

But whether its Lei Day or any other day, part of what makes receiving a lei so special starts long before it's placed around your neck.

Wendy Tuivaioge, native Hawaiian and director of Hawaiian Programs at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, told Travel + Leisure that receiving a lei embodies important cultural values, including: aloha (love), hō'ihi (respect), ho'ohanohano (to honor), and ho'olaulea (celebration).

“To give or receive a lei is all of these things,” Tuivaioge, known as Aunty Wendy, said. “The accessibility is part of what makes the custom so beautiful — to go into your garden or up into the mountain to pick and make a lei for someone is such a simple, but deeply meaningful, act of aloha.”

Kūhaʻo Zane, cultural practitioner and creative director of Sig Zane Designs, agreed.

“Lei making and gathering cultivate a kinship with our environment. Each lei gifted to a special person – or even place – incites reciprocity, or aloha, for our island communities,” Zane, a Hilo native, told T+L. With the amount of intention poured into every lei made, it makes sense there is a way to dispose of them that is uniquely symbolic — and doesn’t involve a hotel trash can. “A lei can be kept as long as you want it, but when the flowers have given all they can, you can cut the string and throw it away, and return those flowers to the land as a gesture of respect and honor,” McComber said, noting Hawaii’s commitment to environmental preservation known as malama ‘aina or to take care of the land.

Screen Rant

David ajala on star trek: discovery season 5, michael & moll relationships, and grudge's farewell to set.

Screen Rant interviews David Ajala about Cleveland Booker's relationships with Michael Burnham and Moll in Star Trek: Discovery season 5.

Warning: SPOILERS For Star Trek: Discovery Season 5, Episode 5 - "Mirrors"

Cleveland Booker's expertise is crucial in catching new Star Trek: Discovery villains Moll and L'ak in Season 5.
Book reunites with Burnham in their hunt for the Progenitors' treasure.
David Ajala talks about Book's growth, Grudge, and that he is open to return in Star Trek: Starfleet Academy .

David Ajala returns as Cleveland Booker in Star Trek: Discovery season 5, as the former courier's expertise is vital to catching Moll (Eve Harlow) and L'ak (Elias Toufexis), Discovery season 5's new villains. Booker's pet cat, Grudge, is also back.

In Star Trek: Discovery season 5, Cleveland Booker joins Captain Michael Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green) and the USS Discovery's hunt for the ancient treasure of the Progenitors , which has the power to create life. Book's reunion with Burnham is awkward as they have been estranged since their romance ended. Meanwhile, Book realizes Moll is the daughter of his mentor, Cleveland Booker IV, and he is desperate to connect with Moll, who is the closest thing Cleveland now has to family.

Star Trek: Discovery Season 5 Returning Cast & New Character Guide

Screen Rant interviewed David Ajala about Cleveland Booker's need to connect with Michael Burnham and Moll in Star Trek: Discovery season 5, filming on Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Enterprise sets, and the potential of returning as Book in Star Trek: Starfleet Academy .

Grudge Took The End Of Star Trek: Discovery Hard

Screen Rant: When you and the cast found out that Discovery season 5 is the final season , who told Grudge and how did Grudge react?

David Ajala: I had to tell Grudge. And you wanna know a secret? Grudge took it pretty well, actually. I mean, she's far from being overly sentimental. But I think the main thing that she was just disappointed by is that she will no longer have a whole trailer to herself. She was a bit bummed out by that. I told her, 'Hey, you've got me.' She's like, 'Yeah.'

Did she get on the phone and call her agent?

David Ajala: So you know she's got an agent, then. So you know that she has a whole entourage. It's an agent, manager, stylist, groomer. Someone who feeds her cat treats. Myself. I'm part of the entourage. There's a few. It's a bit embarrassing, but we love her.

When Discovery ended, did you keep anything from the set? Tell me you kept one of Booker's coats.

David Ajala: Absolutely, I kept something, John, but I don't wanna get in trouble. So I can't say what. I may have taken one thing. (laughs) You have to.

Although Discovery isn't over yet, looking back, what's your lasting impression of Cleveland Booker and Michael's relationship, and playing it for three years with Sonequa?

David Ajala: When Sonequa reached out to me, [and] I knew that I was joining the show or I had been cast, she said, ‘Welcome to this wonderful world where everyone supports each other, where we're so excited to be on set, where we literally believe that we have lightning in a bottle.’ I believe that their relationship is lightning in a bottle, but it's lightning that feels, dare I say it, safe. It's exciting, and it feels safe. I think these two will always be in each other's lives. I think they bring out the best in each other. And behind every great woman is herself.

What It Was Like Filming On Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Enterprise Sets

This week's episode of Discovery is one of my favorites of season 5. You, Sonequa, Eve Harlow, and Elias Toufexis spent most of the episode on the Enterprise set. I need to know what that was like for you.

David Ajala: Oh, it was amazing. Like, truly, because it's one thing, seeing it on the screen. And having seen it many times over the years, and then now to physically be in that space... It was tricky. It was. And I think seeing it for the first time, my reaction was captured on camera because I wanted it to be that. And just to see how Sonequa looked around and took in the space, and held the space in such reverence and awe just really helped to enjoy the magic of that moment.

You guys shot that episode during Strange New Worlds' hiatus, right? They had already finished season 2.

David Ajala: That's right.

When you were on Strange New Worlds ' sets, did you notice a difference between their set and Discovery' s set? Is there something they have that you guys don't, and you were like, 'Hey, how come they have this and we don't?' Or was it vice versa?

David Ajala: It was more vice versa? Oh, man, y'all don't have this, but we do? All right, then. It is what it is. There were few little tiny details that we were very grateful for at the time. But you can tell the distinct difference between the two sets. They're not too dissimilar, but I definitely prefer our set. And that's not being biased. I think it's just more fun, because there's a lot of little hidden things that we have that helped us to get through our days when we're filming. I'll say that much without getting in trouble.

Booker Tries to Connect With Burnham & Moll In Discovery Season 5

I love that Book is very zen this season. In season 4, he was in dire straits. His planet blew up. He lost his family. He lost Michael. He went to prison. But Book is very centered now. Can you talk about this new approach to playing Book and where he's at in season 5?

David Ajala: Thank you, by the way, John. I appreciate that. I think with this version of Cleveland Booker, he is someone who, loosely, I'll say this, he has had a fall from grace very, very publicly, but with the best of intentions. He's also someone who has been given a second chance. And I feel that he understands the grace he's been afforded to be given a second chance. And I think he grabs that second chance like a life raft. It helps to be intentional again. So I think he's operating from a place of a much deeper level of intentionality. And I think, also, he loves Michael, and he wants to be seen in the best light with regard to Michael because he care. Beyond the ego, I think he cares deeply for her.

I honestly think Michael and Book is one of the greatest love stories ever told in Star Trek. And you know, it's not over yet. But the depth of it, the honesty, just the beauty of the two of them, the way they support each other, even when they're at odds, I think it's just beautiful to watch.

David Ajala: That's wonderful. Thank you, John.

Talk to me a little bit about Booker's desire to connect with Moll . I understand Book's feeling that she's the closest thing to family he has left.

David Ajala: Exactly. And it's such a profoundly huge idea to digest, but his whole planet, Kwejian, was obliterated. There is nothing left of it whatsoever. In fact, the only physical thing he has is the chain, the necklace around his neck. That's the only thing he has of Kwejian. And then, now, to be in such close proximity with an individual who is the closest thing to family that he has, this feels also like another second chance. But this second chance, I guess, is a lot more complicated. But I think because of the need Cleveland Booker has to connect. I think he will do the utmost to try and reach Moll.

I also really like how Moll and L'ak remind Book of himself and Michael during the courier days. I just love that.

David Ajala: Yeah, I'm really happy you picked up on that, John. That is such a lovely little detail, which I think charges the energy better and increases the stakes because now he's looking at a parallel version of him and Michael Burnham. He gets them. He understands the thrill they seek, the thrill of the chase. Better the devil you know, right? I love that. And more will be revealed as the episodes continue.

Book's Future In Star Trek After Discovery

This is the final season. If Discovery had continued, was there ever a chance of Booker actually joining Starfleet? Is that something you or he would have wanted?

David Ajala: Potentially. I think it's an invitation that he would have been gracious enough to accept and not to claim. But I think what's important to Cleveland Booker is to be the master of his fate, and to keep and maintain that autonomy. So, if there's a hybrid version of being able to maintain that autonomy, and also be of service to Starfleet, whatever that role looks like, Cleveland Booker would gladly take that role.

Before I let you go, I'm gonna float an idea about you, and tell me what you think: Professor Cleveland Booker - Starfleet Academy.

David Ajala: Done deal. But you missed one key ingredient and feature: Professor Cleveland Booker and Grudge - Starfleet Academy. I ain't trying to get no enemies out here, John. I need to make sure I put some respect on the Queen's name.

Yes. I've got it: Chancellor Grudge - Starfleet Academy.

David Ajala: There you go. There you go. I love that. Done deal. Love that so much. And so will Grudge.

About Star Trek: Discovery Season 5

The fifth and final season of Star Trek: Discovery finds Captain Burnham and the crew of the USS Discovery uncovering a mystery that will send them on an epic adventure across the galaxy to find an ancient power whose very existence has been deliberately hidden for centuries. But there are others on the hunt as well … dangerous foes who are desperate to claim the prize for themselves and will stop at nothing to get it.

Check out our other Star Trek: Discovery season 5 interviews here:

Sonequa Martin-Green
David Ajala and Doug Jones
Wilson Cruz, Mary Wiseman & Blu del Barrio
Alex Kurtzman and Michelle Paradise
Callum Keith Rennie
Eve Harlow and Elias Toufexis

New episodes of Star Trek: Discovery season 5 stream Thursdays on Paramount+

The fairytale capital city famous for hot air balloons and history that tourists are yet to discover

“Soft landings,” exclaims Valentas Karpinskis, as he slaps my backside with a smile.

It is the final evening of my four-night trip to discover the delights of Vilnius , Lithuania – and undoubtedly the most unforgettable.

Valentas, a burly hot air balloon pilot, had moments earlier set fire to a few strands of my hair before extinguishing the flame with a splash of sparkling wine as he baptised me a ‘Duke from Trakai’.

The bizarre rituals take place at dusk in a deserted field beside a railway line on the outskirts of Lithuania’s compact capital, to mark the completion of my maiden airborne voyage in a wicker basket.

Balloon flights (from €150/£128 per person) are a popular pastime here and have become synonymous with a city which last year celebrated its 700th anniversary.

My flight, signalling the start of the season, which runs from April until October, glides over the nearby lake resort of Trakai. Unlike most other European cities, accommodating government regulations also permit passengers to float directly above the historic old town.

Attracting 46,000 visitors from the UK in 2023, Vilnius is relatively uncharted territory as a short break for Brits – a reality readily acknowledged by locals.

“Please promise not to confuse the Baltics and the Balkans,” urges tour guide Lina Dusevičienė, back on terra firma.

Frustration at Lithuania regularly being muddled with neighbouring countries is also expressed during my stay, while I am gifted a T-shirt by the tourist board emblazoned with the tongue-in-cheek slogan: ‘Nobody knows where Vilnius is.’

The nation was the first to declare independence from the Soviet Union, in 1990, and is the largest and most southerly of the three Baltic states.

Home to around 2.8million people, it lies on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, south of Latvia, while also sharing borders with Poland, Belarus and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad.

Vilnius, in the south-west of the country, can be reached from the UK in around two hours and 45 minutes, with direct flights operating from Luton, Stansted and London City airports.

So, why should travellers venture through the Iron Curtain to this particular corner of Europe?

“Vilnius has an absolutely gorgeous landscape in the way it combines the city and nature in a very organic way,” says Lina during an informative stroll through the heart of her home town, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list 30 years ago.

“We are resembling many European capitals but in our own way.”

In addition to natural beauty, I find tranquil Vilnius is suited to architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, gourmands and thrill-seekers alike.

We wander along cobbled streets flanked by Baroque buildings, through quaint university courtyards and in front of the presidential palace before arriving at the columns of the neoclassical cathedral.

High above us atop a green mound is Gediminas’ Tower – named after the city’s 14th century founding father and accessed by a funicular (€1/£86p each way) or a steep climb (free).

The imposing landmark (entrance from €6/£5) is the remnants of the Upper Castle and overlooks the confluence of the Neris and Vilnia rivers, the latter of which gave Vilnius its name, as well as the medieval centre.

Heading south, Lina leads us up Pilies gatvė, the old town’s oldest street, past pavement cafes and the House of Signatories where, in 1918, the country’s act of independence was ratified.

Lithuania subsequently endured a turbulent 20th century, with brutal Nazi rule during the Second World War sandwiched between spells of Soviet repression.

Those dark days are detailed extensively in the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (€6/£5) and the recently-opened Museum of Culture and Identity of Lithuanian Jews (€3/£2.50).

Vilnius’ Jewish population, known as Litvaks, was decimated from around 58,000 to less than 3,000 under Nazi command, a harrowing period commemorated by the city’s ghetto memorial at the end of Stiklių gatvė.

Yet their culture, in a place Napoleon reputedly dubbed “the Jerusalem of the North”, continues to thrive.

I break up the educational but sombre museum visits by stopping for lunch at Baleboste (the term for an efficient Jewish housewife) next door to Halės Market, to sample customary Litvak cuisine.

Cutlery is not required as I join locals in dunking bagels into tasty bowls of shakshuka (eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, olive oil, peppers, onion and garlic, €9/£7.72) and forshmak (herring mixed with egg and onion, €6/£5) before chewing imberlach, a sweet, spicy confection made with ginger (€5/£4 per 100g).

Later, I visit Lokys, a family-run restaurant in the city’s medieval merchant house, to try the classic Lithuanian offerings of cepelinai (potato dumplings stuffed with ground meat, €15/£13) and saltibarščiai (€8/£7; lokys.lt/en/).

The second dish, a cold beetroot soup served with potatoes and kefir (a fermented drink containing live bacteria and yeast), now has an Instagrammable annual pink festival held in its honour, with this year’s free event scheduled for June 1.

Eager for a mix of history and adventure, I travel to arguably the city’s most symbolic site.

Standing at 326.5 metres, Vilnius’ TV tower – the nation’s tallest structure – dominates the skyline in the western suburbs.

Tragic events here on January 13, 1991, when 14 civilians died while resisting an attempted Soviet coup, mean the tower is now forever etched in Lithuanian identity.

After spending time at the memorial wall commemorating those killed, a high-speed lift whisks me up 165 metres to the tower’s rotating viewing platform to be greeted by a glorious panorama.

I am swiftly given greater appreciation of my surroundings as I slip into a safety harness and step outside into blustery conditions to walk along the rim of the observation deck (€39/£33 + a €16/£14 ticket to the open terrace).

Tethered from my back to a sliding clamp, I experience multiple seasons in the space of an hour as I tentatively circumnavigate in sunshine followed by cloud, rain and hail.

“Here it’s pretty windy so you can feel this adrenaline,” says youthful instructor Matas Čiūta, encouraging me to sit down and dangle my feet over the edge. “I like showing my city and this is the best view in Vilnius.”

How to plan your trip

Ryanair (Ryanair.com) fly from Luton to Vilnius from £16.99 one way.

Rooms at Artagonist Hotel (artagonist.lt) start from €100/£86 per night, including breakfast.

For more information on the destination and hot air balloon flights, visit govilnius.lt.

It is difficult to disagree. But a matter of hours later comes the breath-taking balloon ride.

Shortly after take off, I gaze down from the gondola at a moose cow and two calves lumbering through a forest clearing in an ungainly fashion distinctly at odds with our calm drift.

At our backs the sun is slowly setting, while ahead are the pristine blue waters of Lake Galvė, peppered with 21 islands, one of which contains the fairy tale-esque Trakai Castle.

Intermittent whooshes of liquid propane momentarily break the silence and warm our faces amid the cool evening air before Valentas brings us to ground with a slight bounce to begin his offbeat initiation routine.

The informal ceremony includes a concise history of ballooning, which originated in 18th century France and was initially considered an aristocratic pursuit, hence the bottle of fizz and my new noble title.

“Everything we flew above is yours now,” adds Valentas. “With one small condition: you have to be at least one metre from the ground.”

Tantalisingly within easy reach, the popularity of this small but impressive country is certain to soar.

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Section 5 - Rubella
Section 5 - Smallpox & Other Orthopoxvirus-Associated Infections

Rubeola / Measles

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Paul Gastañaduy, James Goodson

Infectious Agent

Transmission, epidemiology, clinical presentation.

INFECTIOUS AGENT: Measles virus

TRAVELER CATEGORIES AT GREATEST RISK FOR EXPOSURE & INFECTION

PREVENTION METHODS

Rubeola is a vaccine-preventable disease

DIAGNOSTIC SUPPORT

Measles virus is a member of the genus Morbillivirus of the family Paramyxoviridae .

Measles is transmitted from person to person via respiratory droplets and by the airborne route as aerosolized droplet nuclei. Infected people are usually contagious from 4 days before until 4 days after rash onset. Measles is among the most contagious viral diseases known; secondary attack rates are ≥90% among susceptible household and institutional contacts. Humans are the only natural host for sustaining measles virus transmission, which makes global eradication of measles feasible.

Measles was declared eliminated (defined as the absence of endemic measles virus transmission in a defined geographic area for ≥12 months in the presence of a well-performing surveillance system) from the United States in 2000. Measles virus continues to be imported into the country from other parts of the world, however, and recent prolonged outbreaks in the United States resulting from measles virus importations highlight the challenges faced in maintaining measles elimination.

Given the large global measles burden and high communicability of the disease, travelers could be exposed to the virus in any country they visit where measles remains endemic or where large outbreaks are occurring. Most measles cases imported into the United States occur in unvaccinated US residents who become infected while traveling abroad, often to the World Health Organization (WHO)–defined Western Pacific and European regions. These travelers become symptomatic after returning to the United States and sometimes infect others in their communities, causing outbreaks.

Nearly 90% of imported measles cases are considered preventable by vaccination (i.e., the travelers lacked recommended age- and travel-appropriate vaccination). Furthermore, observational studies in travel clinics in the United States have shown that 59% of pediatric and 53% of adult travelers eligible for measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine at the time of pretravel consultation were not vaccinated at the visit, highlighting a missed opportunity to reduce the likelihood of measles introductions and subsequent spread. Encourage all eligible travelers to receive appropriate MMR vaccination. Outbreak investigations are costly and resource intensive, and infected people—in addition to productivity losses—can incur direct costs for the management of their illness, including treatment, quarantine, and caregiving.

The incubation period averages 11–12 days from exposure to onset of prodrome; rash usually appears ≈14 days after exposure. Symptoms include fever, with temperature ≤105°F (≤40.6°C); conjunctivitis; coryza (runny nose); cough; and small spots with white or bluish-white centers on an erythematous base appearing on the buccal mucosa (Koplik spots). A characteristic red, blotchy (maculopapular) rash appears 3–7 days after onset of prodromal symptoms. The rash begins on the face, becomes generalized, and lasts 4–7 days.

Common measles complications include diarrhea (8%), middle ear infection (7%–9%), and pneumonia (1%–6%). Encephalitis, which can result in permanent brain damage, occurs in ≈1 per 1,000–2,000 cases of measles. The risk for serious complications or death is highest for children aged ≤5 years, adults aged ≥20 years, and in populations with poor nutritional status or that lack access to health care.

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a progressive neurologic disorder caused by measles virus that usually presents 5–10 years after recovery from the initial primary measles virus infection. SSPE manifests as mental and motor deterioration, which can progress to coma and death. SSPE occurs in ≈1 of every 5,000 reported measles cases; rates are higher among children <5 years of age.

Measles is a nationally notifiable disease. Laboratory criteria for diagnosis include a positive serologic test for measles-specific IgM, IgG seroconversion, or a significant rise in measles IgG level by any standard serologic assay; isolation of measles virus; or detection of measles virus RNA by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) testing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Measles Virus Laboratory is the national reference laboratory; it provides serologic and molecular testing for measles and technical assistance to state public health laboratories for the collection and shipment of clinical samples for molecular diagnostics and genetic analysis. See detailed information on diagnostic support .

A clinical case of measles illness is characterized by generalized maculopapular rash lasting ≥3 days; temperature ≥101°F (38.3°C); and cough, coryza, or conjunctivitis. A confirmed case is one with an acute febrile rash illness with laboratory confirmation or direct epidemiologic linkage to a laboratory-confirmed case. In a laboratory-confirmed or epidemiologically linked case, the patient’s temperature does not need to reach ≥101°F (38.3°C) and the rash does not need to last ≥3 days.

Treatment is supportive. The WHO recommends vitamin A for all children with acute measles, regardless of their country of residence, to reduce the risk for complications. Administer vitamin A as follows: for infants <6 months old, give 50,000 IU, once a day for 2 days; for infants 6 months old and older, but younger than 12 months, give 100,000 IU once a day for 2 days; for children ≥12 months old give 200,000 IU once a day for 2 days. For children with clinical signs and symptoms of vitamin A deficiency, administer an additional (i.e., a third) age-specific dose of vitamin A 2–4 weeks following the first round of dosing.

Measles has been preventable through vaccination since a vaccine was licensed in 1963. People who do not have evidence of measles immunity should be considered at risk for measles, particularly during international travel. Acceptable presumptive evidence of immunity to measles includes birth before 1957; laboratory confirmation of disease; laboratory evidence of immunity; or written documentation of age-appropriate vaccination with a licensed, live attenuated measles-containing vaccine 1 , namely, MMR or measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV). For infants 6 months old and older, but younger than 12 months, this includes documented administration of 1 dose of MMR; for people aged ≥12 months, documentation should include 2 doses of MMR or MMRV (the first dose administered at age ≥12 months and the second dose administered no earlier than 28 days after the first dose). Verbal or self-reported history of vaccination is not considered valid presumptive evidence of immunity.

1 From 1963–1967, a formalin-inactivated measles vaccine was available in the United States and was administered to ≈600,000–900,000 people. It was discontinued when it became apparent that the immunity it produced was short-lived. Consider people who received this vaccine unvaccinated.

Vaccination

Measles vaccine contains live, attenuated measles virus, which in the United States is available only in combination formulations (e.g., MMR and MMRV vaccines). MMRV vaccine is licensed for children aged 12 months–12 years and can be used in place of MMR vaccine if vaccination for measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella is needed.

International travelers, including people traveling to high-income countries, who do not have presumptive evidence of measles immunity and who have no contraindications to MMR or MMRV, should receive MMR or MMRV before travel per the following schedule.

Infants (6 months old and older, but younger than 12 months): 1 MMR dose. Infants vaccinated before age 12 months must be revaccinated on or after the first birthday with 2 doses of MMR or MMRV separated by ≥28 days. MMRV is not licensed for children aged <12 months.

Children (aged ≥12 months): 2 doses of MMR or MMRV separated by ≥28 days.

Adults born in or after 1957: 2 doses of MMR separated by ≥28 days.

One dose of MMR is ≈85% effective when administered at age 9 months; MMR and MMRV are 93% effective when administered at age ≥1 year. Vaccine effectiveness of 2 doses is 97%.

Adverse Reactions

In rare circumstances, MMR vaccination has been associated with anaphylaxis (≈2–14 occurrences per million doses administered); febrile seizures (≈1 occurrence per 3,000–4,000 doses administered, but overall, the rate of febrile seizures after measles-containing vaccine is much lower than the rate with measles disease); thrombocytopenia (≈1 occurrence per 40,000 doses during the 6 weeks after immunization); or joint symptoms (arthralgia develops among ≈25% of nonimmune postpubertal females from the rubella component of the MMR vaccination, and ≈10% have acute arthritis-like signs and symptoms that generally persist for 1–21 days and rarely recur; chronic joint symptoms are rare, if they occur at all). No evidence supports a causal link between MMR vaccination and autism, type 1 diabetes mellitus, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Contraindications

People who experienced a severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, hives, hypotension, shock, swelling of the mouth or throat) following a prior dose of MMR or MMRV vaccine, or who had an anaphylactic reaction to topically or systemically administered neomycin, should not be vaccinated or revaccinated. People who are allergic to eggs can receive MMR or MMRV vaccine without prior routine skin testing or the use of special protocols.

Immunosuppression

Enhanced replication of live vaccine viruses can occur in people who have immune deficiency disorders. Death related to vaccine-associated measles virus infection has been reported among severely immunocompromised people; thus, severely immunosuppressed people should not be vaccinated with MMR or MMRV vaccine. For a thorough discussion of recommendations for immunocompromised travelers, see Sec. 3, Ch. 1, Immunocompromised Travelers .

MMR vaccination is recommended for all people with HIV infection aged ≥12 months who do not have evidence of measles, mumps, and rubella immunity, and who do not have evidence of severe immunosuppression. The assessment of severe immunosuppression can be based on CD4 values (count or percentage); absence of severe immunosuppression is defined as CD4 ≥15% for ≥6 months for children aged ≤5 years, or CD4 ≥15% and CD4 count ≥200 cells/mL for ≥6 months for people aged >5 years.

People with leukemia in remission and off chemotherapy, who were not immune to measles when diagnosed with leukemia, may receive MMR vaccine. At least 3 months should elapse after termination of chemotherapy before administering the first dose of vaccine.

Steroids & Other Immunosuppressive Therapies

Avoid vaccinating people who have received high-dose corticosteroid therapy (in general, considered to be ≥20 mg or 2 mg/kg body weight of prednisone, or its equivalent, daily for ≥14 days) with MMR or MMRV for ≥1 month after cessation of steroid therapy. Corticosteroid therapy usually is not a contraindication when administration is short-term (<14 days) or a low to moderate dose (<20 mg of prednisone or equivalent per day).

In general, withhold MMR or MMRV vaccine for ≥3 months after cessation of other immunosuppressive therapies and remission of the underlying disease. See Sec. 3, Ch. 1, Immunocompromised Travelers , for more details.

MMR vaccines should not be administered to pregnant people or people attempting to become pregnant. Because of the theoretical risk to the fetus, people should be counseled to avoid becoming pregnant for 28 days after receiving a live-virus (e.g., MMR) vaccine.

Precautions

Personal or family history of seizures of any etiology.

Compared with administration of separate MMR and varicella vaccines at the same visit, use of MMRV vaccine is associated with a higher risk for fever and febrile seizures 5–12 days after the first dose among children aged 12–23 months. Approximately 1 additional febrile seizure occurs for every 2,300–2,600 MMRV vaccine doses administered. Use of separate MMR and varicella vaccines avoids this increased risk for fever and febrile seizures.

Thrombocytopenia

The benefits of primary immunization are usually greater than the potential risks for vaccine- associated thrombocytopenia. Avoid giving subsequent doses of MMR or MMRV vaccine, however, if an episode of thrombocytopenia occurred ≤6 weeks after a previous dose of vaccine.

Postexposure Prophylaxis

Measles-containing vaccine or immune globulin (IG) can be effective as postexposure prophylaxis. MMR or MMRV administered ≤72 hours after initial exposure to measles virus might provide some protection. If the exposure does not result in infection, the vaccine should induce protection against subsequent measles virus infection.

When administered ≤6 days of exposure, IG can be used to confer temporary immunity in a susceptible person. If the exposure does not result in modified or typical measles, vaccination with MMR or MMRV is still necessary to provide long-lasting protection. Six months after receiving intramuscularly administered IG, or 8 months after receiving intravenously administered IG, administer MMR or MMRV vaccine, provided the patient is aged ≥12 months and the vaccine is not otherwise contraindicated.

CDC website: Measles

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Paul A. Gastañaduy, James L. Goodson

Bibliography

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevention of measles, rubella, congenital rubella syndrome, and mumps, 2013: summary recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR Recomm Rep. 2013;62(RR-04):1–34.

Gastañaduy P, Redd S, Clemmons N, Lee AD, Hickman CJ, Rota PA, et al. Measles. In: Roush SW, Baldy LM, Kirkconnell Hall MA, editors. Manual for the surveillance of vaccine-preventable diseases. Atlanta: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; 2019. Available from: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/surv-manual/chpt07-measles.html .

Hyle EP, Fields NF, Fiebelkorn AP, Taylor Walker A, Gastañaduy P, Rao SR, et al. The clinical impact and cost-effectiveness of measles-mumps-rubella vaccination to prevent measles importations among US international travelers. Clin Infect Dis. 2019;69(2):306–15.

Hyle EP, Rao SR, Bangs AC, Gastañaduy P, Parker Fiebelkorn A, Hagmann SHF, et al. Clinical practices for measles-mumps-rubella vaccination among US pediatric international travelers. JAMA Pediatr. 2020;174(2):e194515.

Hyle EP, Rao SR, Jentes ES, Parker Fiebelkorn A, Hagmann SHF, Taylor Walker A, et al. Missed opportunities for measles, mumps, rubella vaccination among departing U.S. adult travelers receiving pretravel health consultations. Ann Intern Med. 2017;167(2):77–84.

Lee AD, Clemmons NS, Patel M, Gastañaduy PA. International importations of measles virus into the United States during the post-elimination era, 2001–2016. J Infect Dis. 2019;219(10):1616–23.

National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System. Measles (rubeola): 2013 case definition. Atlanta: CDC; 2013. Available from: https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/measles/ .

Patel MK, Goodson JL, Alexander JP Jr., Kretsinger K, Sodha SV, Steulet C, et al. Progress toward regional measles elimination—Worldwide, 2000–2019. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2020;69(45):1700–5.

Pike J, Leidner AJ, Gastañaduy PA. A review of measles outbreak cost estimates from the US in the post-elimination era (2004–2017): Estimates by perspective and cost type. Clin Infect Dis. 2020;1(6):1568–76.

World Health Organization. Measles vaccines: WHO position paper—April 2017. Wkly Epidemiol Rec. 2017;92(17):205–27.

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

Olabisi Ajala
Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, also known as Ọlábísí Àjàlá, was a Nigerian journalist, travel writer, actor, and socialite.Between 1957 and 1963, Àjàlá trekked across Asia, Africa and Oceania on a Vespa scooter, publishing an account of his experiences as An African Abroad in 1963. To this day, Àjàlá remains a significant figure within Nigerian popular culture, with songs and ...
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Ajala The Traveller in Moscow | Pinterest He also met with other great world leaders among them is the then Shah of Iran, the Soviet President -Nikita Sergeyevich, President of Egypt, Ronald Regan ...
Ajala Travel: Nigerian globetrotter who saw the world but died at home
Even if conventional history ignores Olabisi Ajala, the phrase "Ajala the traveller", a nickname in Southwest Nigeria for the footloose and the adventurous, means he would never be forgotten.
The Story of Olabisi Ajala, The Popular Nigerian Traveller ...
Who was Olabisi Ajala The Traveller? Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, popularly known in Nigeria and across the globe as 'Ajala the traveller', was the man who toured the United States of America on a bicycle, and the world, on a motor scooter better known as Vespa.. From the ordinary son of a traditionalist, Ajala rose to a global celebrity and his name became a song sang on every lips.
Between fame and penury: Life and times of Olabisi Ajala- the traveller
Obey sang the praises of Olabisi Ajala in the album- "Ajala Travel all over the world (2ce), Ajala travel (2ce), Ajala travels all over the world, Alajala mi omo olola, Alaja lami oko Alhaja ...
Ajala the traveller: The Nigerian Christopher Columbus
It wasn't until later that I discovered Ajala the traveller was more than just a figment of speech - he was an actual person. Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, also known as Ọlábísí Àjàlá or simply Ajala the Traveller, was indeed a remarkable figure in Nigerian history. His adventurous spirit and audacious journey on a Vespa scooter ...
The Story Of AJALA TRAVEL, Africa's Most Legendary Traveler
Slide Into Penury. Ajala had seen it all, from the greatest displays of wealth to the stupefying corridors of power. But somehow, by the time death came knocking, he was one of the poorest Nigerians alive. On February 2, 1999, the man fondly known as "Ajala travel" died. He died in penury.
Olabisi Ajala: Life And Times Of Popular Nigerian Traveller
The fall from fame of Ajala the traveller Ajala and his famous Vespa with which he travelled many countries Photo: twitter.com. All that said, unfortunately, the story of Olabisi Ajala does not have a happy ending. ... Rudolph Butch Ware, associate professor of history at the University of California, said it is almost impossible to describe ...
Olabisi Ajala: The 26 year-old Nigerian Globe-Trotter
On June 18, 1998, Ajala the Traveller suffered a stroke that paralysed his left limb after falling on the balcony of his house in Bariga, a suburban community in Somolu local government area of Lagos. Living in Bariga was an indication that Ajala, who had toured the world and was a top Nigerian socialite, had seen better days.
Ajala The Traveller: The Man And His Journeys
On April 27, 1957, in London, a 26 years old student of psychology, Mashood Olabisi Ajala embarked on a trip across 40 countries in Europe, Asia and Africa on his Vespa scooter wearing his full conspicuous agbada regalia with a cap to match. As a pre-medical student, Olabisi has previously undertaken a similar jaunt four years ago in the USA ...
AJALA THE TRAVELLER: The Man Who Toured The World With His Scooter
Contents. Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, prominently known in Nigeria and over the globe as 'Ajala the traveler', was the man who toured the United States of America on a bicycle, and the world, on an engine scooter also called Vespa. From the normal child of a conventionalist, Ajala rose to a worldwide VIP and his name turned into a tune ...
Nigerian Explorer: Ajala's Modern Exploration Legacy
Renowned as the Nigerian Christopher Columbus, Ajala, the intrepid traveler, continues to shape the nation's exploration narrative. His journeys offer insights into cultural exchange and global perspectives.Ajala's expeditions span continents, fostering diplomatic ties and cultural understanding. His adventures echo a legacy that transcends borders, emphasizing unity through shared experiences ...
The Story of Ajala Travels
Ajala was a Nigerian journalist, travel writer, actor, and later a Lagos socialite. He is known for his adventures in Israel, Egypt, Palestine, India, the United States, and other countries. His lone book, An African Abroad, was released in 1963 and chronicled his travel adventures. His name is now synonymous with 'travel' in Nigeria.
RETRO: The Life and times of Ajala, the first Nigerian to travel round
In this retro series, Legit.ng presents to you a scintillating history of the man whose nickname, Ajala Travel, has become associated with globetrotting; Ajala Olabisi. Background. Ajala Travel's real names is Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala. He was born in Ghana in a polygamous household. His father had four wives and 25 children.
Ajala The Traveller: The Untold Story
Olabisi Ajala was a trailblazing African adventurer who travelled the world on his motorcycle in the 1950s, spreading African culture and showcasing the spir...
Olabisi Ajala, the Traveller: Of Fame and Penury
Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, popularly known as 'Ajala the traveller' in his prime, sought to capture the world but was eventually consumed by his passion. He was born in 1934 in Ghana, into a Nigerian polygamous home of 30 children and four wives. He was the 25th child of his father, who relocated back to Nigeria when Olabisi was an infant.
Black History: 'Ajala Travel', The Famous Nigerian Globetrotter Who
32. In the 1950s, a Nigerian known as Mashood Adisi Ajala Olabisi got worldwide attention for his traveling adventures. The renowned globetrotter visited 87 countries in six years and mostly on his bicycle, but sometimes used a motor scooter.
AJALA TRAVEL: The story of Ajala Olabisi known as "Ajala Travel"
Welcome to the remarkable narrative of Ajala Olabisi, the visionary behind the renowned "Ajala Travel" venture. Immerse yourself in the captivating journey o...
Olabisi Ajala
Olabisi Ajala, popularly known as "Ajala the traveller", was the gregarious globe-trotting Nigerian who, in a one-man odyssey which began at his twenty-seventh year, met many leaders of the world and supposedly visited eighty-seven countries, mostly on a bicycle. Ajala, born in 1930 in Ghana, was hailed in the Ebenezer Obey's popular song of the
The Story of Ajala the Traveller
The Story of Ajala the Traveller, Africa's Most Legendary Traveller and how he died in penury. A very Nigerian man at heart and a proud African in soul, Ajal...
Ajala The Traveler: New Captivating Documentary Unveils the Incredible
"Ajala The Traveler," directed by Ayo Shonaiya and co-produced by Shonaiya and Olabisi Ajala Jr, delves into the extraordinary life of Olabisi Ajala. The Yoruba man from Nigeria defied the norms of his time by embarking on an audacious global expedition aboard a humble scooter. The documentary explores his encounters across North America ...
Meet Ajala 'The Traveller'
Moshood Olabisi Ajala, a 26-year-old psychology student from London, set out on his Vespa scooter on April 27, 1957, for a voyage that would take him through 40 countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa. He was dressed in full, ostentatious agbada regalia and a matching cap. Olabisi made a comparable journey as a pre-medical student in the United ...
David Ajala Explains Star Trek: Discovery Seemingly Ending ...
Watching Star Trek: Discovery's final season, I find it hard to imagine what it'd look like without David Ajala's Cleveland Booker in the mix.Fans were delighted to see him return in early ...
Everything to Know About Lei Day
Published on May 1, 2024. Photo: Getty Images. In Hawaiian culture, the lei symbolizes celebration, friendship, and the true meaning of the aloha spirit — and there's no greater feeling than ...
"Ajala: The Nigerian Traveler Who Conquered the World"
Welcome to the captivating world of Ajala: The Nigerian Traveler Who Conquered the World! In this awe-inspiring travel documentary, we delve into the extraor...
David Ajala On Star Trek: Discovery Season 5, Michael & Moll
David Ajala returns as Cleveland Booker in Star Trek: Discovery season 5, as the former courier's expertise is vital to catching Moll (Eve Harlow) and L'ak (Elias Toufexis), Discovery season 5's new villains. Booker's pet cat, Grudge, is also back. In Star Trek: Discovery season 5, Cleveland Booker joins Captain Michael Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green) and the USS Discovery's hunt for the ...
The fairytale capital city famous for hot air balloons and history that
Eager for a mix of history and adventure, I travel to arguably the city's most symbolic site. Standing at 326.5 metres, Vilnius' TV tower - the nation's tallest structure - dominates the ...
Rubeola / Measles
Verbal or self-reported history of vaccination is not considered valid presumptive evidence of immunity. 1 From 1963-1967, a formalin-inactivated measles vaccine was available in the United States and was administered to ≈600,000-900,000 people.
Women's Tennis Receives NCAA Tournament Selection; Will Travel to
The Blue Devils will travel to Knoxville, Tenn., for the first and second rounds May 4-5. No. 21 Duke is set to face 63rd-ranked East Tennessee State (17-7) in first-round action on Saturday, May ...

Ajala The Traveller: The Man And His Journeys

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RETRO: The Life and times of Ajala, the first Nigerian to travel round the world

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