I Went To Pakistan I Was Invited For Marathon, They Separated Me When They Saw My Passport -Dayo Akinbode

Published

1 month ago

July 25, 2026

Joseph Imo

Facebook X

Nigerian marathon runner, sports tourism promoter and founder of FogAdventures, Mrs Dayo Akinbode, has spoken about how Nigerians are sometimes treated when they travel abroad.

Speaking in an interview with by PUNCH on Saturday, July 25, 2026, Akinbode recalled an experience in Pakistan, where she was invited by the Chief of Air Staff to participate in a marathon.

Akinbode stated that officials separated her from other participants after seeing her Nigerian passport and initially treated her poorly. She said the situation changed after she showed them her invitation letter, which confirmed that she was an invited guest.

Akinbode said the officials apologised and began treating her properly. She added that such experiences are common among Nigerians travelling abroad, but she does not entirely blame other countries for their treatment of Nigerians.

Her words,

“Initially, I used to be upset about how the world treats Nigerians. I went to Pakistan, for instance. I was invited by the Chief of Air Staff to run a marathon. When I arrived, they saw my Nigerian passport and immediately separated me from the others.

Related Topics:

Joseph Imo

I am a seasoned journalist known for my incisive reporting and unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity. As a key member of the nop.ng team, I specialize in delivering balanced coverage of socio political developments and cultural affairs throughout Nigeria. Driven by a passion for uncovering the truth regardless of the complexity of the issue I have established myself as a trusted voice in Nigeria’s dynamic media landscape, continually striving to empower my audience with clear, contextually rich news.