Meet Nigerian Woman Aiming For A 144-Hour Bible Reading Guinness World Record Feat

According to Ireporter Online, a Nigerian woman, Habibat Salawudeen Ihiovi-Jack, has embarked on a bold attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest continuous Holy Bible reading marathon, targeting 144 hours of uninterrupted reading in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The event, tagged “144 Hours in the Word,” commenced on June 22 at Novotel, Port Harcourt, and is expected to run through July 2 in line with Guinness World Records guidelines governing endurance reading attempts. The challenge requires continuous reading aloud with only minimal breaks permitted for essential needs.

As of Saturday, Habibat had surpassed the 100-hour milestone, edging closer to the completion of the demanding spiritual endurance feat. Videos circulating online showed her reading from a lectern and seated at a desk, while digital timers tracked her progress as supporters gathered to encourage her throughout the attempt.

Organisers explained that the attempt is being conducted under strict Guinness World Records rules, which regulate pacing, breaks, and continuous verbal reading to ensure validity of the record.

Habibat, a member of The Summit Bible Church in Port Harcourt, said the initiative is faith-inspired and aimed at encouraging deeper engagement with the Scriptures. Her Senior Pastor, Dr. Andy Osakwe of Summit Bible Churches Worldwide, also backed the attempt, describing it as a spiritual assignment designed to honour God’s Word and inspire believers.

The ongoing challenge has drawn widespread attention both physically and on social media, with family members, church congregants, and well-wishers showing strong support. It also forms part of a growing trend of endurance record attempts by Nigerians gaining global attention.

Her effort comes months after Nigerian Samson Ajao was officially recognised by Guinness World Records in 2024 for the longest marathon reading aloud after completing 215 hours, surpassing the previous record of 124 hours set in 2022. His achievement further highlights Nigeria’s increasing presence in global endurance record pursuits.