Nigerian inline skater and youth advocate Sylvester Phadion is set to attempt two Guinness World Records on December 7 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Mr Phadion stated on Thursday in Abuja that the record-breaking attempt would take place inside a designated concourse area at the airport to mark International Civil Aviation Day.

The skater said he wants to attempt the fastest snake sideways slalom on 500 cones in inline skates (a new record category).

He said he will also break the existing record for the fastest 20-cone slalom on inline skates, a record already existing under Guinness World Records.

The record-breaking attempts are part of a larger mission to promote community development and national transformation.

Mr Phadion aims to use his platform to raise awareness and funds for his community, which lacks access to basic necessities like clean water, healthcare, and youth opportunities.

“My people have no access to clean water, healthcare, or youth opportunities. Skating has given me a voice now; I’m using it to give my community hope.

“In a community where despair seemed ubiquitous, skating became my refuge. While others found comfort in alcohol or drugs, I found joy and freedom on wheels.

“Unity Skaters Club of Nigeria has been promoting positive change and providing opportunities for young Nigerians. The club has grown to over 10 million members nationwide and has organised numerous events to address societal issues through sport,” he said.

Mr Phadion’s achievements have earned him recognition both locally and internationally, including a commendation from the Adamawa government for his contributions to youth development and peace building.

He has organised numerous national skating events aimed at addressing societal issues through sport, including Discovery Contests Abuja (2015), Skating King of the Street (2016), and Skatember Unilorin (2017).

Others are Skate-A-Thon Calabar (2024) and Fresh Air Skating Championship Yola (October 2025), which hosted over 800 skaters from 33 states.

His Guinness World Records attempt is a testament to his dedication to promoting skating and empowering young people in Nigeria.

Mr Phadion’s Guinness World Records attempt is not just for the title — it’s a fundraising campaign aimed at addressing pressing needs.

Despite limited infrastructure, his passion for skating and leadership has taken him to South Korea, Germany, France, and the Netherlands, where he studied international sports systems and returned home to apply his learning.

(NAN)