Nigeria boasts a rich tapestry of talent, and that talent extends to the world stage. In recent times, several Nigerians have etched their names in the Guinness World Records, showcasing their exceptional abilities across diverse fields. Let’s meet seven of these remarkable individuals as handpicked by Naijassador.
Chukwuebuka Ezugha and Victor Richard Kipo
Nigeria’s Chukwuebuka Ezugha and Victor Richard Kipo aren’t just teammates, they’re record-breakers. Together, they hold the Guinness World Record for the “Most Consecutive Football Passes with the Soles (Team of Two).” Their impressive footwork saw them keep a ball bouncing between their soles for a staggering number of passes. This feat wasn’t a one-off either. The duo has repeatedly pushed the boundaries, showcasing their incredible coordination and freestyle football skills. Their dedication has not only earned them a place in the Guinness World Records but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers and freestyle enthusiasts around the world.
Folashade Oluwafemiayo
Nigeria’s powerlifting wonder, Folashade Oluwafemiayo, holds the Guinness World Record for the “Heaviest Power Lift by a Female in the -86kg Category.” In December 2021, at the World Para Powerlifting Championships, she conquered the weights with a phenomenal lift of 152.5 kg, showcasing her immense strength and determination. This record-breaking feat cemented her place as one of the strongest female para powerlifters in the world, inspiring aspiring athletes and proving that limitations can be shattered.
DJ Yin
In 2021, Nigerian DJ Yin, also known as Oyinmiebi Asu-Johnson, carved her name into history. She became the world’s record holder for the “Longest DJ Set” by spinning tunes non-stop for a jaw-dropping 243 hours and 30 minutes (11 days)! This feat surpassed the previous record held by another Nigerian DJ, Obi. Her relentless dedication and musical passion pushed the boundaries of human endurance and solidified her place as a DJing powerhouse.
Chinonso Eche
Nigeria’s football prodigy, Chinonso Eche, is a triple Guinness World Record holder. In 2021, he achieved the fastest time to 1,000 football touches while balancing a ball on his head. He also shattered the record for the most consecutive football touches in a minute with the ball on his head. This young star even secured the record for being the youngest person to win the Africa Cup of Nations (as both player and coach – though this achievement pays homage to the late Stephen Keshi). While not an official record, Chinonso’s talent and dedication are a shining example of Nigerian excellence on the world stage.
Bose Omolayo
Bose Omolayo, a Nigerian powerlifter, shattered barriers in December 2021 by claiming the Guinness World Record for the “Heaviest Para Power Lift by a Female in the -79kg Category.” This feat of incredible strength saw her lift a phenomenal 144 kg, a testament to her rigorous training and determination. Omolayo’s achievement not only placed her name in the record books but also served as an inspiration for aspiring female athletes, demonstrating that strength knows no boundaries.
Divine Ikubor (Rema)
Nigeria’s Afrobeats prince, Divine Ikubor, better known as Rema, isn’t just topping charts with his music – he’s topping the record books too. Rema’s hit song “Calm Down” secured him a Guinness World Record for the “First No. 1 Hit on The Official MENA Chart.” This prestigious title recognizes Rema’s global influence. The MENA Chart, launched by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), is the world’s first regional streaming chart, encompassing music popularity across the Middle East and North Africa. “Calm Down” debuted at the top spot and remained there for over two months, solidifying Rema’s place as a breakout star on the international music scene.
Hilda Baci
Hilda Baci, a rising star in the Nigerian culinary scene, briefly held the Guinness World Record for the “Longest Cooking Marathon (Individual)” in May 2023. Nicknamed the “Cook-a-thon,” her feat involved cooking for a whopping 93 hours and 11 minutes, surpassing the previous record by over five hours. During this epic culinary adventure, she prepared over 100 pots of food, showcasing her endurance and passion for cooking. While her reign at the top was short-lived, being dethroned in November 2023, Hilda’s achievement remains a testament to her incredible skill and stamina.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many Nigerians who are making their mark on the world stage. Their dedication, passion, and exceptional abilities inspire others to chase their dreams and reach for the extraordinary.
Written by: Sarah Aboje
