Friday, June 12, 2026

24-year-old Nigerian set to break Guinness World Record with 120-hour speech-a-thon

Ms Amanta started at 6:15 a.m. on August 27 and finished at 12:17 a.m. on August 31, 2018.

• September 7, 2023
Christopher Olusa
Christopher Olusa

Christopher Olusa, a post-graduate student of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) in Ondo state, is set to break the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the “Longest Speech Marathon” by speaking for 120 hours.

Mr Olusa, 24, motivated by the unwavering commitment to inspire positive change in society, wants to break the GWR of 90 hours and 2 minutes by an individual, which was last set in 2018 in Nepal by Ananta Ram KC.

Ms Amanta started at 6:15 a.m. on August 27 and finished at 12:17 a.m. on August 31, 2018.

The record holder maintained silence for almost seven days before starting the attempt as part of his preparation for the speech-a-thon attempt.

But the newest attempt is a “5-day of word-to-word record” event that would kick off by September 11, 2023, at Dejavu Hotel, in Akure.

Addressing journalists on Thursday in Akure, Ondo’s capital city, Mr Olusa said he had already got approval from the GWR to break the existing record from current holder, Mr Ram.

The young chap, who has consistently strived to make a positive impact on society with his #TalkWithTheDuke platform, noted that he is physically fit and mentally ready to undertake the monumental challenge.

“Today, I am overjoyed to announce that our unwavering dedication has borne fruit, as Guinness World Records has granted us their esteemed approval for what promises to be an
unprecedented feat.

“Our speech marathon is not just another event; it is a testament to human determination and the unyielding power of words. Over the course of five days, we will embark on a journey of enlightenment, as I read speeches from inspirational figures spanning the annals of history,” Mr Olusa said.

While stressing that he is determined to continue with his advocacy using words to solve solutions, Mr Olusa said he is prepared to draw inspiration from both past and present leaders to break and achieve success in the new fit.

He explained how he had undergone a series of physical mock trials at a stretch before attempting to break the speak-a-thon record.

He also solicited support from private individuals, government and sponsors to continue his course as he attempted to break the record.

“I have spoken to myself for over 12 hours in a stretch before embarking on this speech marathon.

“So, this initiative will be conducted under the banner of the #TalkWithTheDuke Foundation, reflecting our commitment to making a meaningful impact on those in need,” Mr Olusa added.

According to him, funds raised during the marathon would be dedicated to the noble cause of training children with “Aphasia.”

Peoples Gazette reports that Aphasia is a brain disorder that affects speech and comprehension.

Mr Olusa’s attempt came after GWR warned Nigerians to go easy on the non-stop unnecessary record-breaking challenges.

Motivated by Hilda Baci’s feat of the cook-a-thon, many Nigerians have not ceased with continuous attempts to want the world-acclaimed certificate.

After Baci’s feat, several GWR attempts have emerged in Nigeria, and the top among them is Chef Dammy’s controversial cook-a-thon and smile-a-thon challenge.

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