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NIGERIAN JOURNALIST SHATTERS GUINNESS WORLD RECORD FOR LONGEST INTERVIEWING MARATHON

Livinus Chibuike Victor, a renowned Nigerian journalist, has made history by setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest interviewing marathon, clocking an impressive 75 hours and 19 minutes of non-stop interviews in Abuja. The event, themed “Nigeria Our Strength,” was a powerful tribute to press freedom and took place at Harrow Park Golf Club from April 17 to 20, 2025. During the marathon, Livinus conducted over 215 interviews with a diverse range of guests, including civic leaders and everyday Nigerians, all sharing stories that matter. His goal was to spark conversations about press freedom, a cause he believes strengthens society. “When journalists are free, people are better informed, and our democracy thrives,” he shared. The record-breaking attempt was not without its challenges. Livinus prepared for months, training his body and mind with meditation, resilience exercises, and healthy eating. A team of health experts closely monitored him, ensuring he stayed hydrated and energized with short breaks and nutrient-packed meals. The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council supported Livinus throughout the event, with Chairman Grace Ike describing the effort as “a bold and inspiring act that shows journalism’s power to drive change.” Livinus’s achievement has not only earned him a place in the history books but has also shone a spotlight on the challenges journalists face worldwide. “This isn’t just about endurance,” Livinus said during a press briefing. “It’s about showing the world how vital a free press is to democracy. Journalists face censorship and threats, yet we keep going. This marathon is for them.” He hopes his achievement will inspire renewed action to protect press freedom and support quality journalism. Moses Obi Adigwe, Winner of Nigerian Idol Season 3, 2013, congratulated Livinus, saying, “I’m proud of you Livinus Chibuike Victor, the world is your stage go and conquer and fly Nigeria’s flag high.” As Nigeria celebrates this proud moment, Livinus is already looking ahead. He dreams of taking his storytelling to new heights, with plans to host an interview in Antarctica, proving that no place is too remote for meaningful conversations. He also plans to take the Advocacy of Press Freedom across 54 African nations. “This is our story to tell and our voice to raise,” he said. “The time to defend democracy is now”.

JOURNALIST EMBARKS ON 72-HOUR MARATHON INTERVIEW FOR PRESS FREEDOM

Abuja-based journalist Livinus Chibuike Victor is set to make history with a Guinness World Record attempt for the longest interviewing marathon, themed “Nigeria Our Strength”. The 72-hour event, scheduled from April 17 to 20, 2025, at Harrow Park Golf Club in Abuja, aims to promote press freedom in Nigeria. Victor emphasized the crucial role journalists play in democracy, saying, “Journalists are the pillars of democracy and guardians of truth.” He highlighted the challenges faced by journalists, including censorship, harassment, and violence, but noted that they continue to uphold the values of truth and accountability. The event will feature interviews with notable individuals from various sectors, discussing national development, media ethics, and freedom of expression. Victor called on the public, media professionals, and civic leaders to support the initiative, stating, “This attempt is not just about setting a new world record; it’s about celebrating truth, integrity, and the powerful role journalism plays in building and sustaining open societies.” Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, praised the initiative, saying, “Press freedom is not a privilege—it’s a fundamental pillar of democracy.” She emphasized the need to protect press freedom, enhance media, and ensure journalist resilience. Ike also highlighted the importance of media enhancement in the face of rapid technological evolution, warning against misinformation and fake news. She expressed pride in the NUJ FCT Council’s commitment to professional development and capacity building. The event aims to advocate for stronger protections for journalists and better welfare, including fair compensation, adequate training, and professional safety. As Ike noted, “If we are to continue holding the powerful accountable, we must advocate for better welfare for journalists everywhere.” The 72-hour interview marathon is expected to draw national and international attention to the centrality of a free press in a thriving democracy. By promoting press freedom and journalistic integrity, Victor and the NUJ FCT Council hope to inspire a new generation of journalists and foster a more informed and equitable society.