The previous record of 124 hours was held by Rysbai Isakov of Kyrgyzstan, set in 2022. To break the record, Ajao had to read aloud from published texts with no more than a 30-second break between readings.
Samson Ajao read about 100 books on subjects including finance, management, and wellness to set a record.
He aimed to “promote literacy development” and “inspire a reading culture” in Nigeria.
Throughout his record attempt, Samson Ajao was supported by many, including Osun State House of Assembly Speaker Ngozi Adeleke and Education Commissioner Dipo Eluwole.
According to record rules, Samson was allowed five minutes of rest per hour of reading, totaling two hours daily, during which he could eat, sleep, use the bathroom, or change clothes.
Despite this, Samson revealed in an interview with Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) News that he did not sleep during his breaks, stating, “Even when it’s tough, you have to get going to meet your target.”
Before attempting the record, Samson consulted medical professionals to choose foods and drinks that would preserve his voice and reduce the need for toilet breaks.
Following the successful “read-a-thon,” Samson and his supporters celebrated with a street parade.
His parents, who joined the festivities, expressed their pride in his achievement.
The record for the longest marathon reading aloud has evolved significantly since its inception in 1987 when Adrian Hilton of England set the benchmark with a 110-hour 46-minute “bard-a-thon” reciting Shakespeare.
In 2008, Nepal’s Deepak Sharma Bajagain surpassed this with 113 hours and 15 minutes.
Rysbai Isakov later extended the record by nearly 11 hours.
Samson Ajao’s achievement now surpasses these milestones, becoming not only the longest reading marathon but also one of the longest record attempts in Guinness World Records history, exceeded only recently by DJ Faber Moreira’s 10-day DJ marathon.