Nigeria has diverse talents and highly creative people who have achieved a record on the global stage. These individuals have demonstrated their skills and achievements by securing a place in the prestigious Guinness World Records. This article will explore the stories of 45 Nigerians who have become Guinness World Record holders, showcasing the nation's talent and dedication to excellence.
Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, recently made a significant mark in the Guinness World Book Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual cook.
She achieved this feat by cooking for more than 87 hours and 45 minutes, surpassing the previous record set by Indian chef Lata Tondon in 2019.
Fela Kuti, the legendary Nigerian musician, and activist, recorded 46 solo albums throughout a 23-year career. His first solo album was released in 1969, and his last in 1992, marking a significant contribution to the music world.
British-born rapper Modenine, also known as Babatunde Olusegun Adewale, has won nine Headies awards, including Best Rap Album, Best Rap Single, and seven "Lyricist on the Roll" awards. Modenine is a prominent figure in Nigeria's hip-hop scene and has significantly impacted the industry.
Mfon Udoh scored an impressive 23 goals for Enyimba in the Nigerian Premier League during the 2013-14 season.
This achievement broke the previous record of 20 goals set by Jude Aneke in 2010-11. Udoh's outstanding performance in his first season with Enyimba solidified his position as a top Nigerian footballer.
Several Nigerian Paralympians have made their mark in the world of powerlifting, setting multiple world records:
Yakubu Adesokan, a Nigerian-born athlete, lifted 180 kg in the men's 48 kg powerlifting competition at the London Paralympic Games 2012.
Joy Onaolapo also won a gold medal at the London Paralympic Games in 2012 with a lift of 131 kg in the women's -52kg division.
Flora Ugwunwa set the farthest female F54 javelin throw record with a distance of 20.25 meters in 2016.
Lauritta Onye achieved the farthest shot put by a female F40 athlete with a distance of 8.40 meters at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.
Folashade Oluwafemiayo holds the record for the heaviest power lift by a female in the -86 kg category, lifting 152.5 kg in December 2021.
Bose Omolayo set the record for the heaviest para power lift by a female in the -79 kg category with a lift of 144 kg in December 2021.
Tuedon Morgan is the fastest record holder to cover a half marathon race on each continent and the North Pole, completing the feat in astounding record sets.
Morgan's incredible achievement occurred between February 8, 2015, and April 12, 2015.
Nigerian musician Wizkid was featured on the first music track to reach one billion streams on Spotify. The song "One Dance," by Drake, featured Wizkid and Kyla and reached this milestone on December 16, 2016.
Blessing Okagbare, a Nigerian track and field athlete, holds the female record for the most appearances in Diamond League meetings, with 67 appearances in 100 meters races, 200 meters, and long jump disciplines between July 3, 2010, and August 31, 2018.
Nigerian photographer Bayo Omoboriowo created the most extensive photo book, measuring 60.84 m² (654 ft² 87 in²) in September 2021. Omoboriowo's dedication to his craft and attention to detail resulted in this impressive achievement.
Peter Aho set the record for taking six wickets for just five runs in 3.4 overs during a cricket match against Sierra Leone in October 2021. Aho's exceptional bowling performance showcased his talent and skill in the sport.
In addition to these ten impressive achievements, the following Nigerians have also made their mark on the Guinness World Records:
Haruna Abdulazeez: Most American football touches with the feet in one minute (October 2020).
Vincent Okezie: Most consecutive backward handsprings with a football (soccer ball) between the legs (March 2022).
Chinonso Eche: Most football headers are in a prone position in one minute, totaling 23 (October 2021).
Chukwuebuka Ezugha and Victor Richard Kipo: Most consecutive football passes with the soles (team of two) (December 2021).
Divine Ikubor, aka Rema: Record for 'Calm Down' as the first No.1 Hit on The Official MENA Chart, the world's first regional streaming chart (May 2023).
Gbenga Ezekiel: Most skips in a minute on one leg (February 2023).
These 21 Nigerians have shown incredible talent, dedication, and perseverance in their respective fields, earning their place in the Guinness World Records. Their achievements inspire others and showcase the vast array of talent that Nigeria has to offer on the global stage.