Nigerian journalist, Livinus Victor has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest marathon of interviews, achieving an impressive duration of 72 hours and 30 minutes of continuous dialogue in Abuja.
Previously, the record was held by Clara Kronborg, who completed 55 hours and 24 seconds of interviewing.
Victor’s marathon interview took place at the Harrow Park Golf Club in Abuja, starting precisely at 12:20 pm on Thursday, April 17, 2025, and concluding powerfully at 3:44 p.m. on Sunday, April 20, 2025.
Titled: “Nigeria our strength,” the event aimed not only to establish a new record but also to highlight the crucial role of press freedom in bolstering democracy.
In the months leading up to the marathon interview, Victor engaged in extensive preparations. He focused on both mental and physical training, which included meditation, routines to build resilience, and a carefully managed diet to prepare his body and mind for the competition.
During the race, a medical team kept track of his vital signs, making sure he stayed hydrated and attentive by providing him with nutritious meals and carefully timed rest periods.
As he answered questions, Victor aimed to honour the power of storytelling, highlight marginalised voices, and emphasised the perseverance of journalists working in high-pressure environments.
He said: “This isn’t just about endurance. 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.”
Victor interviewed over 100 individuals throughout the record-breaking session, including politicians, captains of industry, entertainers, musicians, fellow journalists, and everyday Nigerians.
Their stories, varied, heartfelt, and compelling, formed the backbone of the event’s emotional strength.
Victor has long believed in the power of storytelling as a tool for accountability and change.
The previous record-holder, Kronborg, had set her milestone in Marbella, Spain, from March 8 to 10, 2024.
