Africans everywhere are a symbol of excellence and boundless potential. For Nigerians in particular, extraordinary accomplishments are an inspiration to do even more.
Anyone, regardless of age, gender and race, can aspire to make the list of Guinness World Records holders for anything, as long as they are willing to give it all it takes.
This past week, Hilda Baci astounded the world by surpassing the record for the Longest Cooking Marathon by an Individual, soaring beyond her initial goal of 97 hours to an awe-inspiring 100 hours.
We’ve decided to go through the memory lane and unveil the trailblazing Nigerians who have etched their names into the annals of the Guinness World Records, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.
Within this remarkable cohort, we encounter a diverse array of individuals who have fearlessly challenged existing records, shattered their own previous achievements, and remained unbeaten in their respective domains.
From iconic music legends to mesmerising dancers, and the trailblazing DJs, the roster magnifies the extraordinary feats accomplished by these Nigerians.
By looking at this list of limitless possibilities, each record-breaking Nigerian symbolises inspiration, beckoning countless others to aspire to greatness and fearlessly pursue their dreams.
These exceptional individuals who have defied odds, transcended boundaries, and propelled Nigeria (and Africa) onto the grand stage of the Guinness World Records.
Chioma Ajunwa
Chioma Ajunwa is an athlete who soared to unparalleled heights in the world of long jump. Ajunwa’s historic triumph made her the first Nigerian to win an Olympic gold medal in a field event at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
Kanu Nwankwo
No discussion of Nigerian Guinness World Record holders would be complete without paying tribute to the legendary Kanu Nwankwo. This football maestro has etched his name in the record books as the Nigerian with the most career goals scored in European competitions.
Blessing Okagbare
In the realm of track and field, Blessing Okagbare has emerged as a shining star, earning her place in the Guinness World Records. As the record holder for the most appearances in a Diamond League long jump final, Okagbare’s relentless pursuit of excellence and her electrifying performances have captivated audiences worldwide.
Chinedu Harrison
Chinedu Harrison stands as a testament to extraordinary skill and determination. Harrison holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest time to complete a marathon while dribbling two basketballs.
By a remarkable balancing act, he also set the Guinness World Record for the longest distance bicycle wheelie in one hour.
Kafayat Shafau-Ameh (Kaffy)
Popularly known as Kaffy, she waltzed her way into the Guinness World Records by achieving the longest dance party marathon by an individual. Kaffy’s awe-inspiring feat embodies the spirit of perseverance, endurance, and the sheer joy of movement.
Anthony Adebo
When it comes to agility and acrobatics, Anthony Adebo flips the script in spectacular fashion. As the record holder for the most consecutive backflips by a male, he defies gravity and showcases his incredible athleticism with jaw-dropping precision.
Olawunmi Treasures Bayode
Olawunmi Treasures Bayode claimed the Guinness World Record for the longest reading aloud marathon by an individual and by a team.
Olumide Oresegun
By the extraordinary talent of Olumide Oresegun, he led a team to create the largest artwork by a team. Their masterpiece showcases not only their artistic prowess but also their ability to collaborate and create something truly remarkable.
Team Nigeria: Soccer Marathon
Team Nigeria set the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon playing five-a-side football (soccer). Their endurance, teamwork, and love for the sport shone through as they battled against fatigue and showcased their skills on the pitch.
Godswill Akpabio Unity Choir
A choral group, the Godswill Akpabio Unity Choir, based in Akwa Ibom State, broke the world record for the largest number of Christmas carol singers in the world, in 2014. Made up of 25, 272 singers, they performed at a concert in the Uyo Township Stadium on December 13, 2014.
Olusoji Fasuba
With incredible speed and agility, Olusoji Fasuba blazed his way into the record books by covering 100 meters wearing clogs, setting a Guinness World Record.
Chidera Anemege (Chiddy)
By the lyrical dexterity of Chidera Anemege, better known as Chiddy, he set the Guinness World Record for the longest freestyle rap. With his lightning-fast flow and impeccable rhymes, Chiddy captured the attention of listeners worldwide, showcasing the power of words.
Abdul Lawal
Abdul Lawal set the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon club DJing. With relentless beats and seamless transitions, Lawal demonstrated his incredible DJ skills, keeping the crowd grooving throughout the marathon session.
Olukunle Ogunrombi (Kunle On Air)
In the world of talk radio, Olukunle Ogunrombi, known as Kunle On Air, achieved the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon radio talk show by an individual.
Wizkid – Most Awards won at the All Africa Music Awards
Rema – First Ever No.1 Hit on The Official MENA Chart
Tuedon Morgan– Fastest Time to Run a Half Marathon on Each Continent and the North Pole Marathon (female)
Eche Chinonso – Most Consecutive Football (Soccer) Touches in One Minute while Balancing a Football on the Head
DJ Obi – Longest DJ Set
DJ Yin – Longest DJ Set
Pinki Debbie – Longest Dance by an Individual
Tolu Odukoya – Heaviest Sumo Deadlift in One Minute (Female)
Adetunwase Adenle – Multiple Guinness World Records Holder
Gbenga Ezekiel – Most Skips in One Minute on One Leg
Sandra Ikeji – Most Bridesmaids on a Bridal Train
DJ Venum – Longest DJ Set
Fela Kuti – Most Studio Album Recordings Released
Bayo Omoboriowo – Largest Photo Book
Lucy Ejike – Heaviest Paralympic Powerlift (-44 kg, Female)
Joy Onaolapo – Heaviest Paralympic Powerlift (-52 kg, Female)
Bose Omolayo – Heaviest Paralympic Powerlift (-79 kg, Female)
Paul Kehinde – Heaviest Paralympic Powerlift (-65 kg, Male)
Tobi Amusan – Fastest hurdles 100 meters (female)
Adeoye Ajibola – Fastest run 100 meters (T46, male)
Folashade Oluwafemiayo – Heaviest Paralympic powerlift (-75 kg, female)
Chukwuebuka Ezugha, Victor Richard Kipo, Vincent Okezie – Multiple Football Records
Team Jason Joshua Usoro – Longest Dance Marathon Relay
Yakubu Adesoka – Heaviest Paralympic Powerlift (-48 kg, Male)
Haruna Abdulazeez – Longest Time Controlling a Tennis Ball with a Racket Frame
Goodness Nwachukwu – Farthest Discus Throw (F42, female)
Stephen Keshi – Youngest Person to Win the Africa Cup of Nations as a Player and Coach
Senator David Omueya and Cynthia Esella Dafinone– Most Chartered Accountants in One Family
Nigeria’s presence in the Guinness World Records is a testament to the nation’s vibrant spirit, boundless talent, and unwavering determination.
These exceptional individuals have shown us that greatness knows no bounds and that with passion, resilience, and unwavering belief, Nigerians can conquer any challenge. Their accomplishments celebrate the rich cultural heritage, artistic expression, athletic excellence, and boundless creativity that emanates from Nigeria.
As their stories continue to inspire, let us embrace the spirit of these record breakers and strive to make our own mark on the world, knowing that the possibilities are limitless when we dare to dream and push the boundaries of what is possible.
