Nigeria shone in 2025, clinching five Guinness World Records (GWR) that highlight its ambition, creativity, and cultural pride. Below are the verified record-breaking feats, corrected for accuracy where needed.
1. Longest Marathon Hosting a Radio Talk Show
Holder: George Iniabasi Essien (“Mighty George”)
Date: April 27–May 1, 2025
Record: 105 hours
Akwa Ibom’s “Mighty George” hosted a 105-hour radio marathon at Comfort 95.1 FM, Uyo, celebrating 20 years in broadcasting. Despite technical issues, guest cancellations, and a studio intruder, he secured Akwa Ibom’s first individual GWR broadcasting record, certified in July 2025.
2. Longest Duration Playing the Trumpet
Holder: Joshua Olusanya (“Trumpet Influencer”)
Date: May 9–10, 2025
Record: 25 hours, 30 minutes, 36 seconds
At Lagos’ Terra Kulture, Joshua played the trumpet for over 25 hours, overcoming a disqualified 2024 attempt. Livestreamed to thousands, his performance blended endurance and artistry, inspiring young musicians. GWR certified it in June 2025.
3. Multiple Skipping Records (Five Titles)
Holders: Gbenga Damilare Ezekiel, Dubem Dunsin Emmanuel, Solomon Philip Ayobami
Date: Late 2023–Early 2024 (ratified October 2024)
Records: Includes most skips in 1 minute on one leg (278 by Gbenga)
Three Akure teens secured five skipping titles, including Gbenga’s 278 skips in 1 minute on one leg, Solomon’s 69 criss-cross skips in 30 seconds on one leg, and Dubem’s 78 double under crossovers in 30 seconds. Ratified for the 2025 GWR book, their feats sparked a skipping craze in Nigerian schools.
4. Longest Marathon Reading Aloud (Individual)
Holder: Samson Ajao
Date: May 6–15, 2025
Record: 215 hours
In Osogbo, Samson read Nigerian-authored books for 215 hours to promote literacy (Nigeria’s rate ~63%). Attended by dignitaries like Osun’s Education Commissioner, the marathon covered ~100 books, inspiring nationwide campaigns. GWR certified it in August 2025.
5. Largest Serving of Nigerian-Style Jollof Rice
Holder: Hilda Baci
Date: September 12, 2025
Record: 8,780 kg
At Lagos’ Gino World Jollof Festival, Hilda cooked 8,780 kg of jollof rice in a 23,000-litre pot (4,000 kg rice, 500 cartons tomato paste). Despite a pot collapse during weighing, multi-camera evidence secured GWR certification on September 15, 2025, reinforcing Nigeria’s “jollof wars” dominance.
The Bigger Picture
Nigeria’s 2025 GWR surge, with 200+ applications (60% marathons), builds on Hilda Baci’s 2023 cookathon. These records spotlight youth potential, literacy, and cuisine amid economic challenges. Pending attempts, like Bolade Bezi’s gaming marathon and Tacha’s makeover record, await review for possible 2026 inclusion. Upcoming dance and speaking relay marathons keep Nigeria’s momentum alive.
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