A journalist based in Abuja, is ready to start a groundbreaking marathon for the longest interview.
This event with the theme: “Nigeria our strength,” will take place from April 17 to 20, 2025, at Harrow Park Golf Club, located off Ahmadu Bello Way, behind Abia House in the CBD area of Abuja.
The goal of this Guinness World Record attempt is to shine a light on the growing issues affecting press freedom worldwide, such as censorship, harassment, and violence, as well as to focus on the safety and well-being of journalists in their work.
Speaking to reporters at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council on Thursday about the marathon, Chibuike Victor said that even with the growing dangers to press freedom worldwide, like censorship, harassment, and violence, journalists still bravely do their jobs with honesty.
He called journalists the foundation of democracy and protectors of truth, stressing that their important work in promoting openness, questioning authority, and representing those without a voice is critical.
He believes that despite increasing global challenges, such as media censorship and attacks on reporters, journalists continue to stand firm on the important values of truth and accountability.
“With the rise of misinformation and decreasing trust in institutions, professional journalism plays a crucial role in fighting against false information and manipulation,” he stated.
Victor stressed the importance of safeguarding press freedom, supporting quality journalism, stopping the harassment of media workers, and acknowledging the essential role journalists play in creating and maintaining open societies.
He stated that the power of any democracy depends on how strong its press is, emphasising that when journalists have freedom and protection, people are more informed, and society becomes stronger.
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“As the world thinks about the important role journalists have in supporting democratic values, I am excited to announce a historic attempt for a Guinness World Record for the longest interviewing marathon, called Nigeria our strength,” the journalist said.
He pointed out that this initiative is not just a personal achievement, but represents a shared effort to highlight the importance of a free press in a successful democracy, both nationally and internationally.
“Democracy is impossible without an informed public, and journalists are the ones who make that possible. 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,” he added.
Victor mentioned that the Guinness World Record attempt will include a series of interesting and insightful interviews with important people from various fields.
These interviews will focus on topics like national development, media ethics, civic responsibility, and freedom of expression.
Also, he stated that the event will feature talks about the challenges and opportunities in the Nigerian media industry, highlighting the bravery and determination of those who keep working even in tough and sometimes risky situations.
Victor invited members of the public, media professionals, community leaders, and supporters of democracy to join in the experience and witness the event over three inspiring days.
Chairman of the NUJ in the FCT, Comrade Grace Ike, in a speech entitled “Press freedom: The foundation of democracy,” stated that the 72-hour interview marathon is not just a test of physical strength but a significant chance to highlight journalists’ voices on important global issues.
“This initiative is more than just a demonstration of endurance; it serves as a platform to elevate the media’s voice worldwide on issues that are important to us all,” she explained.
Comrade Ike emphasised that press freedom, the improvement of the media, and the strength of journalists are crucial to the union’s mission and should be regarded as essential values in any democratic society.
“Press freedom is not a privilege; it is a core element of democracy. Safeguarding this freedom is a shared duty for journalists, policymakers, and citizens around the world,” she stated.
