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Nigerian Woman Attempts Guinness World Record

Nigerian Woman Attempts Guinness World Record with 144-Hour Bible Reading Marathon

 

A Nigerian woman, Habibat Salawudeen Ihiovi-Jack, is aiming to make history by attempting a Guinness World Record (GWR) for the longest marathon Bible reading, embarking on a remarkable 144-hour challenge in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The record attempt, themed "144 Hours in the Word," officially began on June 22 at the Novotel in Port Harcourt and is scheduled to conclude on July 2, subject to compliance with Guinness World Records' official guidelines.

As of Sunday morning, Habibat had successfully surpassed the 100-hour milestone, moving into the final stretch of the endurance challenge as supporters continued to cheer her on.

Videos circulating on social media show the determined reader passionately reading the Bible aloud from a lectern and seated desk while digital timers tracked every hour of the marathon. Family members, church members and well-wishers have maintained a constant presence at the venue, offering encouragement throughout the attempt.

According to the organisers, the marathon is being conducted in line with Guinness World Records regulations, which require participants to read continuously and audibly while allowing only limited breaks for essential personal needs.

Habibat, who worships at The Summit Bible Church in Port Harcourt, described the record attempt as a faith-driven mission designed to encourage Christians and people of faith to develop a deeper commitment to studying the Scriptures.

Beyond pursuing a world record, she hopes the initiative will inspire more people to engage consistently with the Bible and strengthen their spiritual lives.

The marathon has attracted widespread attention across social media platforms, with many Nigerians following her progress and expressing support as she closes in on completing the 144-hour challenge.

Habibat's attempt also adds to the growing list of endurance-based Guinness World Record pursuits by Nigerians in recent years.

In 2024, Samson Ajao from Ibadan was officially recognised by Guinness World Records after setting the record for the longest marathon reading aloud, completing an extraordinary 215-hour reading challenge. His achievement surpassed the previous record of 124 hours, which had been held by Rysbai Isakov of Kyrgyzstan since 2022.

If successfully ratified by Guinness World Records, Habibat's feat would mark another significant milestone for Nigeria's growing presence in global endurance record attempts while highlighting the power of faith, perseverance and dedication.