GWR: How John Obot’s 145-Reading-Hour Attempt is Putting Nigerian Literature on the Map
A Nigerian man, John Obot, is embarking on an ambitious quest to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud, just four months after Hilda Bacci’s remarkable cookathon broke the record for the longest cooking session.
Obot is determined to surpass the previous record of 124 hours currently held by Rysbai Isakov from Kyrgyzstan in Turkey. He commenced this extraordinary feat on September 9, 2023, with the goal of reaching an astonishing 145 hours by September 17, 2023.
Interestingly, breaking Guinness World Records has emerged as a new avenue for Nigerians to showcase their talents and expertise. In July, Guinness World Records reported that they had received over 1500 applications from Nigerians in just two months.
However, John Obot’s endeavor goes beyond setting records; he is also promoting a reading culture and showcasing Nigerian literature.
Obot, a Creative Director and Designer at Magnalia Digital Media Solutions, has set out to read a remarkable collection of about 40 Nigerian books.
John Obot’s challenge serves as a powerful catalyst for promoting a reading culture in Nigeria. In a world where digital distractions abound, his dedication to the printed word underscores the enduring value of books. By attempting this record, Obot is inspiring countless Nigerians to rekindle their love for literature.
So far, John Obot has delved into “Things Fall Apart” by the renowned Nigerian author Chinua Achebe. This groundbreaking novel, first published in 1958, marked Achebe’s debut in the literary world.
Among the other titles Obot has read aloud are “Echoes of The Traditional Society” by the distinguished Nigerian journalist Akpandem James, “Civil War Child” by Nestor Udoh, “Ibibio Nation: History and Culture” by Oto-Obong Uwah, and “Eze Goes to School” by Michael Crowder and Onuora Nzekwu.
Prior to Hilda Bacci’s achievement, a young 15-year-old Vincent Okezie made headlines in 2022 by setting four Guinness World Records.
Obot’s determination and commitment to both the literary world and record-breaking endeavors serve as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Nigeria and the extraordinary talents within its borders.
