A few months ago, Mrs. Remi Abere made headlines all over the world as she became one of the oldest Nigerian women to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, at 49. Come November, as she turns 50, she is returning to Kilimanjaro with 5 amazing middle-aged women for a cause she’s very passionate about.
A graduate of the University of London and a Marketing, Communication and Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Expert, Remi Abere in an exclusive interview with Pulse reveals why she is taking the climb at 50, the mysteries behind mountain Kilimanjaro and why every youth should travel.
An early love for adventure, nature and seeing the world
I have always loved adventure since I was a child, I love nature and seeing the wonders of the world. In 2012 I heard a friend speak at a seminar about climbing mount Kilimanjaro and I was fascinated, there and then I decided I want to go see what its like from the rooftop of Africa. So I finally embarked on the climb in June this year.
It was a phenomenal experience, one that taught me very valuable lessons. The main one being, how strong our believe system is and how powerful what you tell yourself can be.
So, I was looking at some footage of the IDP camp that my friend James took, and saw the awful conditions that woman and children were going through as a result of being displaced by the war through no fault of their own, and immediately it came to me, why don't I climb again to bring awareness to the plight of these women and show them that they too can climb out of their present situation, once they believe its possible.
Raising money for the Internationally Displaced Persons (IDP)
These woman and children need us, they need someone to bring awareness to their plight. because we live in the south we really don't see what is really happening out there and how we could possibly lend a hand.
Climbing the mountain is symbolic, it doesn't matter if am 50.
To Uhuru peak we go!
Raising awareness with five other courageous and amazing women
I would be climbing with wife of the Ogun State governor, Olufunsho Amosun, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and three other courageous and amazing women. We will use our influences and tenacity to bring awareness to this cause by enduring a risky seven day climb.
Walking, Hiking, Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for 8 days
Most of the time we will be hiking and climbing. Each day is a 7 -8 Day hike up the mountain to reach the peak. So we will be walking, Hiking, climbing and forming a bond among ourselves.
Oldest Nigerian woman to make the climb?
I feel great to be the oldest woman ever to make the climb! However, I am sure someone will break that record soon. Nigerians are very passionate and adventurous people.
Mysteries about climbing mountains
The mystery of just how beautiful the world we live is. You will see Nature at its best. The mountain is so scenic, its unbelievable. Its a creative persons dream to be on that mountain. Your imagination runs wild, and it gives you a sense of freedom that you cannot describe. The serenity is awesome!
Background in banking? How did you get interested in going on adventures?
I have a background in many things, I like to explore , I like to see what else is out there. Life is for living and trying out new things, not living some boring routine. I would like to come to the end of my life and smile to myself and say YES!!! Remi you did live well.
Nigerians let's start leaving our comfort zones and get out there.. there is a gigantic world out there waiting for you to explore & grab with both arms.
Opened doors for other Nigerian women considering going on adventures and Mountain climbing.
Not sure I have open doors, women before me have climbed mountains and we will continue to do so. Mostly it has not been publicized. Its not really our thing but true, I guess more woman will explore this possibility now
Advice for the youth and other women
Lets live a life of adventure and explore the world that God gave us!
Go find You!
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