From remarkable displays of skill to outstanding achievements in various fields, Nigerians have continuously showcased their talent and determination, earning recognition in the renowned Guinness World Records. In this article, LEADERSHIP Weekend celebrates the extraordinary Nigerians who have left an indelible mark in history with their record-breaking accomplishments, inspiring and captivating the world.
1. Hilda Baci – May 2023
Hilda Effiong Bassey, also known as Hilda Baci, secured her place in the Guinness World Records for the longest cooking marathon by an individual. Hilda amazed Nigerians on May 15, 2023, during a cook-a-thon in Lagos, where she cooked continuously for an impressive 93 hours and eleven minutes.
2. Divine Ikubor (Rema) – May 2023
Nigerian music sensation, Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, made history by earning a spot in the Guinness World Records. Rema’s hit track, ‘Calm Down,’ became the first No. 1 Hit on The Official MENA Chart, marking a significant milestone in his career.
3. Gbenga Ezekiel – October 2022
Gbenga Ezekiel achieved two remarkable feats in October 2022. He set the record for the most skips in one minute on one leg (278), surpassing his previous record, and also achieved the most double under skips in one minute on one leg (144), breaking the previous record set by India’s Himanshu Prajapati in 2021.
4. Folashade Oluwafemiayo – August 2022
Folashade Oluwafemiayo made headlines in August 2022 for her exceptional performance in para powerlifting. She set a new world record of 152.5 kg at the 2021 World Para Powerlifting Championships and clinched a gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, further solidifying her place in history.
5. Chukwuebuka Ezugha and Victor Richard Kipo – March 2022
Chukwuebuka Ezugha and Victor Richard Kipo teamed up to achieve the record for the most consecutive passes of a football (soccer ball) between the head and soles (team of two). Their impressive feat of 252 passes captivated audiences in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom, Nigeria, on March 11, 2022.
6. Vincent Okezie – March 2022
Vincent Okezie demonstrated his exceptional football skills by setting the record for the most football (soccer) ‘around the world’ tricks (71) with arms linked. His mastery of the game earned him his fifth Guinness World Record in March 2022.
7. Bayo Omoboriowo – September 2021
Bayo Omoboriowo made history in September 2021 by creating The Largest Photo Book, a monumental achievement recognized by the Guinness World Records. Collaborating with The JT Agency and with support from the federal government, Bayo’s photo book, titled Discover Nigeria, showcased the beauty of the nation on a grand scale.
8. Bose Omolayo – December 2021
Bose Omolayo etched her name in the Guinness World Records in December 2021 by setting the record for the heaviest para power lift by a female in the -79 kg category, lifting an impressive 144 kg.
9. Peter Aho – October 2021
Peter Aho’s exceptional bowling skills earned him recognition in the Guinness World Records. He achieved the best bowling figures in T20 international cricket, claiming five wickets and a hat-trick in a T20i game, and setting the record for the best bowling figures by taking six wickets for five runs against Sierra Leone in 2021.
10. Tunde Onakoya – April 2024
Tunde Onakoya made headlines as the latest Nigerian to break the Guinness World Record. He accomplished an unprecedented 58-hour chess session, reaching the remarkable 57-hour mark without interruption, showcasing his endurance and skill in the game of chess.
