Nigerian Journalist Shatters Guinness World Record With 72-Hour Interview Marathon.
In an extraordinary feat of endurance and dedication, Nigerian journalist Livinus Chibuike Victor has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest interviewing marathon, clocking an astonishing 72 hours and 30 minutes of non-stop conversations. The historic event, themed “Nigeria Our Strength,” took place at the serene Harrow Park Golf Club in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, captivating audiences and earning widespread admiration.
The marathon kicked off at precisely 12:20 p.m. on Thursday, 17 April 2025, and concluded triumphantly at 3:44 p.m. on Sunday, 20 April 2025, surpassing the initial target of 72 hours. Livinus, a seasoned reporter known for his fearless storytelling, interviewed over 100 individuals, including politicians, industry leaders, entertainers, musicians, fellow journalists, and everyday Nigerians, weaving a rich tapestry of stories that highlighted the nation’s diversity and resilience.
“This was never just about setting a record,” Livinus told reporters, exhausted yet elated, moments after his final interview. “I did it for all the voices that were not heard in Nigeria, for the power of stories, and to demonstrate to the world what Nigerian journalists are capable of doing.” His mission, he explained, was to celebrate press freedom and underscore journalism’s vital role in strengthening democracy, a cause close to his heart.
The previous record, held by Clara Chizoba Kronborg, stood at 55 hours and 24 seconds, achieved in Marbella, Spain, from 8 to 10 March 2024. Livinus eclipsed this benchmark by over 17 hours, a testament to his grit and passion. Backed by a team of medical professionals, nutritionists, and timekeepers, he adhered to strict Guinness World Record guidelines, taking brief breaks to stay hydrated and maintain focus throughout the gruelling three-day ordeal.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council rallied behind Livinus, with Chairperson Grace Ike hailing the achievement as “a bold and inspiring act that shows journalism’s power to drive change.” She added, “This initiative is more than a showcase of endurance; it is a platform to amplify the voice of the media across the globe on issues that matter deeply to all of us.”
Livinus’s marathon, blending compelling narratives with a clarion call for press freedom, has sparked renewed conversations about the challenges journalists face—censorship, harassment, and violence—and their unwavering commitment to truth. As Nigeria celebrates this milestone, Livinus is already eyeing future ventures, including a bold plan to host an interview in Antarctica, proving that no frontier is too far for impactful storytelling.
