Meet Lola Odujinrin,the First African to Fly Solo Around the Globe

​WASHINGTON D.C. – In a feat of endurance and precision that has redefined African aviation, Nigerian-British pilot Ademilola “Lola” Odujinrin has officially entered the record books. Completing a grueling nine-month odyssey across five continents, Odujinrin has become the first African aviator to successfully fly solo around the world in a single-engine aircraft.

​The “One Man, One Plane” expedition culminated at Washington Dulles International Airport—the same tarmac from which he departed months earlier. Upon landing, Odujinrin joined an elite group of fewer than 115 people in history who have ever completed a solo circumnavigation of the earth by air.

​A Dream Decades in the Making

​For Odujinrin, the journey was the realization of a childhood obsession. Born in South London before moving to Nigeria, his trajectory toward the cockpit was meteoric. He earned his Private Pilot License (PPL) at the age of 20, remarkably completing the rigorous training in just 19 days.

​”It has been my dream since my youth to join the ranks of those who have circled the globe alone,” Odujinrin remarked following his arrival. “I hope this world first inspires a new generation of pioneers across Africa and beyond to realize that no horizon is out of reach.”

​The “One Man, One Plane” Expedition

​The mission was not merely a test of stick-and-rudder skills but a logistical and mental marathon. Flying a single-engine Cirrus SR22, Odujinrin navigated diverse and often treacherous environments. The project received significant backing from industry heavyweights, including Air Djibouti CEO Mario Fulgoni and Cardiff Aviation Chairman Bruce Dickinson—the latter famous as both a veteran pilot and the lead singer of Iron Maiden.

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​The partnership with Air Djibouti was particularly symbolic, as the airline sought to highlight the growth and potential of the African aviation sector on the global stage.

​Professional Pedigree

​While the solo flight brought him international fame, Odujinrin is no stranger to high-stakes aviation. Since obtaining his commercial license in 2011, he has logged over 4,000 flying hours. His professional background includes a five-year tenure with Nigeria’s Arik Air and subsequent roles with Air Djibouti. He is currently type-rated on the Boeing 737, one of the world’s most ubiquitous commercial jetliners.

​A Legacy Beyond the Clouds

​Beyond the technical achievement, Odujinrin’s flight serves as a powerful counter-narrative to the traditional limitations placed on African aviation. By navigating the complexities of international airspace, varying weather patterns, and the solitude of long-haul solo flight, he has signaled that African pilots are ready to lead in the most demanding sectors of the industry.

​As he prepares for his next chapter, “Lola” remains a symbol of persistence, proving that with the right support and an unwavering vision, the sky is not the limit—it is the destination.