Despite the myriad challenges faced by Nigerians in the past year, 2023 witnessed a remarkable trend that took the country by storm; several individuals attempting to challenge and break world records.
The journey commenced in January when 17-year-old Philip Solomon made headlines by attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the most skips on one foot in 30 seconds.
In May, another Guinness World Record-breaking attempt garnered widespread attention, this time by Nigerian chef Hilda Baci. The Lagos-based restaurateur aimed to surpass the 87-hour record set by her Indian counterpart, Lata Tondon, for the world’s longest cooking time.
While Baci was not the first Nigerian to attempt a Guinness World Record in 2023, her feat received global attention, causing the official Guinness World Records website to crash.
Let’s take a closer look at the Nigerians who dared to set new world records in 2023:
- Philip Solomon
In January 2023, a student of Oyemekun Grammar School, Akure, Ondo State, made 153 skips on one foot in 30 seconds.
His feat was officially certified by Guinness World Records in May, dethroning the former record holder, Rasel Islam, from Bangladesh.
- Chinonso Eche
Known as “Amazing Kid Eche,” this football prodigy set his first Guinness World Record in 2019.
Eche continued to break records in 2023, achieving feats like the fastest time to 1,000 football touches, most football headers in a prone position, and most football touches in a seated position.
- Hilda Baci
The Lagos-based restaurateur made headlines with her attempt to break the record for the world’s longest cooking time in May 2023.
Baci succeeded in her endeavour, setting a new Guinness World Record with a cooking marathon lasting 93 hours and 11 minutes.
- Chef Dammy
A month after Hilda Baci’s attempt, Chef Dammy from Ekiti embarked on a 120-hour cook-a-thon.
Despite not officially registering with Guinness World Records, Chef Dammy garnered attention and support for her ambitious effort.
- Oluwatobi Kufeji
Nigerian musician Oluwatobi Kufeji aimed to break the record for the longest singing marathon.
Although his attempt was not certified by Guinness World Records, Kufeji claimed that the head of his media team sabotaged his efforts.
- Tonye Solomon
In September, Tonye Solomon, a student of the Chukwuebuka Freestyle Academy, set a world record for the most steps climbed on a ladder while balancing a football on the head.
- Lola Mewu
Professionally known as Lola Mewu, Oyinlola Odumewu attempted the longest painting time in October 2023.
While her attempt is yet to be confirmed, Mewu painted for over 82 hours, aiming to surpass the unofficial record held by Belgian artist Roland Palmaerts.
- Helen Williams
Professional wig maker Helen Williams set a new world record in November for the longest handmade wig, spanning 351.28 meters.
- Subair Enitan
A student of Obafemi Awolowo University, Subair Enitan attempted to hand-wash clothes for 50 hours in November.
- Mary Gold
In December, TV host Mary Gold embarked on a marathon television talk show, aiming to break the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous talk show.
While some records were officially certified, others await confirmation, showcasing the ambitious spirit of Nigerians in pursuing extraordinary achievements.
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