Habibat Salawudeen Ihiovi-Jack, a member of Summit Bible Church in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, completed a 144-hour Bible reading marathon on June 29, 2026, as part of a Guinness World Record attempt. The challenge, titled '144 Hours in the Word,' began on June 22 at the Novotel in Port Harcourt and ran for six consecutive days under strict Guinness World Records guidelines. Participants are allowed only brief pauses for essential personal needs.
Details of the Marathon Attempt
Videos shared on Instagram showed Habibat reading aloud from a lectern while digital timers tracked every hour of her progress. Her performance now awaits official verification from Guinness World Records before it can be formally recognized.
Dr. Andy Osakwe, Senior Pastor of Summit Bible Churches Worldwide, described the attempt as a spiritual project intended to honor God's Word and inspire deeper commitment to Bible study among believers. He emphasized that the effort went beyond a mere sporting achievement.
Preparation and Support
Habibat's preparations reportedly began as early as June 2022, making the journey to completion a four-year endeavor of consistency and devotion. Throughout the six days, she drew encouragement from family, church members, friends, and online supporters who followed her progress closely.
Comparison with Previous Records
Her performance follows the 2024 Guinness World Records recognition of fellow Nigerian Samson Ajao, who set the record for the longest marathon reading aloud at 215 hours. Ajao, from Ibadan, surpassed the previous record of 124 hours held by Kyrgyzstan's Rysbai Isakov since 2022.
Public Reactions
Reactions to Habibat's feat poured in from supporters online. User @t_o_b_z_y said: 'Congratulations.' @juanita_ereba added: 'Super Congratulations.' @falodioluwaseun commented: 'Congratulations.' @tifesays said: 'Thank you Jesus.'
The accomplishment highlights a growing trend of Nigerians pursuing Guinness World Records in reading marathons, with Habibat's attempt now pending official confirmation.
