24-yr-old Graduate Moves To Break World Record For Longest Speech Marathon

A 24-year-old Federal University Of Technology Akure (FUTA) Alumnus, Christopher Olusa, on Thursday, announced his desire to break the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the Longest Speech Marathon by an individual.

Olusa, who said he had obtained the approval from Guinness World Records, disclosed that he was set to break Ananta Ram’s Guinness World Record for the longest speech marathon of 90 hours and two minutes.

Ananta Ram, a Nepali, is the current holder of the record after achieving the longest speech marathon of 90 hours and two minutes in Kathmandu, Nepal, from August 27 to 31, 2018.

Speaking with journalists in Akure, the Ondo State capital, the young graduate said he was attempting to set aside the existing record with a 120-hour (five days) word-to-word speech.

Oluta, who is currently a FUTA Postgraduate student, said: “The genesis of this remarkable endeavour was borne from an unwavering commitment to inspire positive change in the society.

“I had sought and got the approval from GWR and the event is scheduled for 11- 15 September 2023 in Akure the Ondo state capital.

“Dejavu Hotel, Akure has been chosen as the venue for the momentous occasion and it will kick off on the 11th of September, 2023.”

Olusa further explained that the upcoming Speech Marathon is an event that embodies the very essence of transformation and inspiration.

“I am Christopher Olusa, and I stand before you today as a young Nigerian with an unwavering passion for change. As a proud alumnus of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, I have consistently strived to make a positive impact on society, as the owner of the #TalkWithTheDuke platform which has been a platform for advocacy, engagement, and innovation.

“My journey has been one marked by dedication to the cause of change and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. It is with this same spirit that I bring you today’s announcement regarding the upcoming Speech Marathon, an
event that embodies the very essence of transformation and inspiration.

“The genesis of this remarkable endeavour was borne from an unwavering commitment to inspire positive change in our society. It is about transcending boundaries, shattering limits, and aspiring towards something extraordinary.

“I am overjoyed to announce that our unwavering dedication has borne fruit, as Guinness World Records has granted us their esteemed approval for what promises to be an unprecedented feat.

“Our Speech Marathon is not just another event; it is a testament to human determination and the unyielding power of words. Our Speech Marathon is not just another event, it is a testament to human determination and the unyielding power of words. Over five days, we will embark on a journey of enlightenment, as I read speeches from inspirational figures spanning the annals of history.

“From past and present world leaders to influential individuals who have left an indelible mark on our world, I will draw wisdom and inspiration from their words. It is about transcending boundaries, shattering limits, and aspiring towards something extraordinary.

“I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to our partners and sponsors who have already lent their invaluable support to this noble cause. Your faith in our mission has been instrumental in bringing us to this point, and I humbly request your continued support as we set out to make history.

“My commitment to this endeavour extends beyond words. I am in the peak of physical fitness and mental readiness to undertake this monumental challenge,” Olusa stated.

He added that all funds raised during the marathon will be dedicated to the noble cause of training children with aphasia, a brain disorder that affects speech and comprehension.

“This initiative will be conducted under the banner of the #TalkWithTheDuke Foundation, reflecting our commitment to making a meaningful impact on those in need,” he stated.

LEADERSHIP reports that a Nigerian and celebrity female chef, Hilda Baci, was some weeks ago certified by GWR as the world record-holder in long hours of cooking by an individual.