FUTA Alumnus Set To Challenge World Record On Longest Speech

By Ayodele Oni

Following the approval from Guinness World Records, (GWR), a former student of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, (FUTA) Christopher Bayode Olusa has decided to break the record of longest speech marathon.

Christopher Olusa, is set to break Ananta Ram’s Guinness World Record for the longest speech marathon of 90 hr and 2 min.

A Nepali, Ananta Ram is the current holder of the record after achieving the longest speech marathon of 90 hr and 2 min, in Kathmandu, Nepal from 27 to 31 August, 2018.

However, Olusa is attempting to set aside the record with a 120-hour (Five days) words to word speech.

While addressing newsmen at a press conference held at the NUJ Press Centre in Akure, Olusa said “the genesis of this remarkable endeavor was born from an unwavering commitment to inspire positive change in the society.

The FUTA Postgraduate student said he had sought and got the approval from GWR and the event is scheduled for between 11- 15 September 2023 in Akure the Ondo state capital.

The 24yr-old FUTA Alumnus, explained that the upcoming Speech Marathon is an event that embodies the very essence of transformation and inspiration.

He said he had gotten an approval from the GWR to carry out the exercise, noting that he is physically and mentally ready to beat the existing record.

“I am Christopher Olusa, and I stand before you today as a young Nigerian with an unwavering passion for change.

“As a proud alumnus of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, I have consistently strived to make a positive impact on society, as the owner of the #TalkWithTheDuke platform that has been a platform for advocacy, engagement and innovation.

“My journey has been one marked by dedication to the cause of change and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. It is with this same spirit that I bring you today’s announcement regarding the upcoming Speech Marathon, an event that embodies the very essence of transformation and inspiration.

“The genesis of this remarkable endeavor was born from an unwavering commitment to inspire positive change in our society. It is about transcending boundaries, shattering limits, and aspiring towards something extraordinary.

“I am overjoyed to announce that our unwavering dedication has borne fruit, as Guinness World Records has granted us their esteemed approval for what promises to be an unprecedented feat.

“Our Speech Marathon is not just another event, it is a testament to human determination and the unyielding power of words. Over the course of five days, we will embark on a journey of enlightenment, as I read speeches from inspirational figures spanning the annals of history.

“From past and present world leaders to influential individuals who have left an indelible mark on our world, I will draw wisdom and inspiration from their words”

“It is about transcending boundaries, shattering limits, and aspiring towards something extraordinary.”

He stressed that his journey has been one marked by dedication to the cause of change and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.

“My personal commitment to this endeavor extends beyond words. I am in the peak of physical fitness and mental readiness to undertake this monumental challenge.

“All funds raised during the marathon will be dedicated to the noble cause of training children with Aphasia, a brain disorder that affects speech and comprehension”.

“This initiative will be conducted under the banner of the #TalkWithTheDuke Foundation, reflecting our commitment to making a meaningful impact on those in need.

“Our theme, “Voices of Change: Inspiring Solutions for a better World,” resonates deeply with the essence of this marathon. It encapsulates our collective aspiration to inspire transformation, ignite hope, and foster positive change.”