Adventure traveller and storyteller Enumjekonaishu Jude Chionyedua, widely known as Judelucan, has successfully reached the summit of Chappal Waddi, the highest mountain in Nigeria and West Africa, standing at 2,419 meters (7,936 feet). The peak, also called Gangirwal, is located within Gashaka-Gumti National Park on the Mambilla Plateau in Taraba State and remains largely untapped for tourism.
The name Gangirwal, derived from the Fulfulde language, translates as “Mountain of Death” or “Mountain of the Dead,” reflecting its dangerous terrain, harsh weather conditions, and local legends associated with the peak.
Speaking after the climb, Judelucan described the expedition as challenging. “They call it the Mountain of Death—and they weren’t wrong. The climb tested every ounce of endurance, but reaching the top was indescribable: a mix of pride, awe, and gratitude. This is the roof of West Africa, and it deserves more recognition,” he said.
Judelucan completed the hike with friends Hilary Okoaze and Joshua Ademola, supported by rangers from Gashaka-Gumti National Park under the management of the Ani Foundation. The team recorded a moving time of nearly five hours to reach the summit, following a six-hour hike. To access the mountain, they undertook an 8–9 hour bike ride from Gembu in the Mambilla Plateau to Hamma-sale in Cameroon, the last settlement on the Cameroonian side, before crossing on foot into Nigeria. At the summit, the group created a marker to honour travellers who attempt the climb.
Judelucan, who documents Nigerian culture, art, and tourism through social media and documentaries on Instagram (@judelucan), YouTube (@judelucan), and TikTok (@judelucan), said the expedition was also an effort to draw attention to Nigeria’s eco-tourism potential. His previous explorations have included the Yusufari Desert in Yobe State, Ogbunike Cave in Anambra State, the abandoned Almagamation House in Akwa-Ibom, Suleja Dam in Niger State, and the Oloibiri Oil Well in Bayelsa State.
He called on both government and private investors to increase attention and resources toward tourism development. “This place could easily stand alongside Africa’s great peaks if given the right attention. Nigeria has a goldmine in eco-tourism, and it’s time we started investing in it,” Judelucan said.
Judelucan’s climb of Chappal Waddi highlights the potential of Nigeria’s natural landscapes to support tourism growth, create employment opportunities, and promote cultural and environmental awareness. For the adventure traveller, the expedition was both a personal achievement and an effort to showcase the country’s hidden natural treasures.
