Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has revealed that she avoids going on road trips in Nigeria, particularly for distances longer than the route between Lagos and Ibadan. Speaking in a recent interview with VJ Adams, the acclaimed actress explained that while she enjoys travelling abroad by road, she prefers air and marine transport within Nigeria due to infrastructural and security concerns.
Bello, who has featured in numerous films and television projects, disclosed that her aversion to long road journeys in the country has significantly affected her social life. “I love road trips, but in Nigeria, I prefer not to travel far by road. The longest I go comfortably is Lagos to Ibadan,” she said. She attributed her preference to the state of the roads and the potential risks associated with overland travel, which she believes can be stressful and unsafe.
The actress further explained that her travel choices are influenced by concerns over highway insecurity, unpredictable traffic, and poor road conditions. “Travelling by road in Nigeria comes with uncertainties that I try to avoid. I feel safer flying or taking boats when I can,” she noted, emphasizing the impact of these factors on her personal and professional engagements.
Bello also highlighted how her reluctance to embark on long road trips has shaped her social interactions and availability for events outside major cities. She admitted that she often declines invitations that require extensive overland travel, preferring options that allow for safer and more predictable transportation.
Security analysts and transport experts in Nigeria have often cited the challenges Bello mentioned, including road safety, inadequate infrastructure, and sporadic incidents of highway crime. Many residents and public figures share similar concerns, with some advocating for improved highways, enhanced policing, and safer travel corridors across the country.
Despite her cautious approach to domestic travel, Shaffy Bello remains an active participant in events abroad, frequently sharing her experiences of road trips and leisure travel in other countries. She encourages Nigerians to prioritize safety and plan travel carefully, particularly when considering long journeys by road within the country.
Her candid remarks shed light on the broader issues of transport infrastructure and security in Nigeria, revealing how even high-profile personalities are affected by road safety concerns. Fans and followers have responded with understanding, acknowledging the difficulties of overland travel in the country while expressing hope for improvements in road conditions and security measures in the future.