At CivicHive, we believe in showing up for the changemakers. So, when we heard about Nigeria Reads’ audacious attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest reading aloud marathon by a team, we knew where we needed to be. This was a powerful statement on literacy, national unity, and the sheer power of the human spirit.
We read aloud to every Nigerian, present and future: our creative minds are the blueprint of tomorrow Sintim Kingsley, Founder, Nigeria Reads
What we experienced went beyond simple competition. When you enter the arena, the first thing you notice is the clear voice that turns words into imagery. Next, you see the team, a solid support group that surrounds the marathoner. Each member shows quiet strength, and their unity enhances the moment, creating a sense of excitement. We spoke to John Abba Luka, a technical crew member from Kaduna State, who was carefully watching the live stream on YouTube and their website, checking the sound and visuals. “This has been an impactful project,” he said, a feeling shared by others in the room. By August 28th, they had already broken the previous record of 365 hours. Now, they aimed for a higher goal: 424 to 431 hours.
The effort to ensure thorough and accurate documentation is supported by a structured framework of rigorous observation. Among those involved is Dorothy Archibong, an independent observer from Akwa Ibom State. Her essential role involves tracking the time and ensuring that every word, from the beginning to the end, is read aloud. Doathy emphasizes the personal significance of this mission, stating, “Reading expands your knowledge; it takes you to places.”
The spotlight of this endeavour shines on five dedicated marathoners, each undertaking a two-hour shift that presents its own challenges, both mentally and physically. One of the key figures is John Obot, who not only participates as a marathoner but also serves as the operations coordinator for the project. Additionally, he works as a secondary school teacher. In our conversation with him, he highlighted the significant fatigue experienced throughout this remarkable undertaking, encompassing both mental and physical aspects.
As of our recent visit, a total of 62 Nigerian books have been showcased and given voice. This selection spans works from notable authors such as Helon Habila’s “Measuring Time” to “Daughters Who Walk This Path,” highlighting the richness of Nigerian literature. The curation process involves contributions from various authors and publishers, with a strong awareness of the audience’s interests. On weekends, the focus shifts to children’s books, reflecting an understanding of the importance of engaging the next generation of readers.
The initiative highlights a significant aspect of Nigeria’s cultural diversity by featuring marathoners who represent various regions of the country. Participants include John from Akwa-Ibom, Keturah from Gombe, Steven from Osun, Preciouslight from Imo, and Ogunremi Timothy from Kogi. This effort strengthens a spirit of national unity as the marathoners take turns selecting books and authors, ensuring inclusivity that reflects the richness of Nigeria’s ethnic backgrounds.
When we asked about the health of the marathon, Preciouslight talked about the team’s strong bond and how they support each other. This teamwork is essential for getting through the toughest shifts. Keturah shared the challenge of reading at night, especially during the difficult hours between 1 AM and 5 AM, which her teammates agreed was tough, too.
This attempt, supported by partners like The Library Lagos, which has provided the space since the beginning, has become a cultural touchstone. Celebrities, artists, the media, and creatives have stopped by to witness greatness in the making.
As CivicHive continues to focus on investing in youth, technology, and participatory governance, an exemplary initiative in this light is Nigeria Reads, which exemplifies the importance of using literacy and information as a tool for advocacy and unity. By engaging participants in reading, Naija Reads not only promotes the value of literacy but also showcases the significant impact of informed and empathetic voices in society. The initiative has achieved notable milestones, including breaking a world record, but its primary goal is to build a lasting legacy through the collective effort of individuals, strengthening the Nigerian reading culture, fostering growth one page, one word, and one voice at a time.