A Nigerian woman, Habibat Salawudeen Ihiovi-Jack, has completed a grueling 144-hour longest Bible reading marathon. The stunning Guinness World Records attempt concluded on Monday after six days of continuous marathon reading aloud under strict global guidelines. This monumental feat of endurance has captivated believers and onlookers worldwide, setting a new benchmark for scriptural devotion.
Tagged “144 Hours in the Word,” the marathon was a deeply faith-driven initiative. It aimed to encourage deeper engagement with Scripture and inspire believers to develop a stronger commitment to Bible study. The journey to this historic moment reportedly began in June 2022. It followed years of preparation marked by consistency, endurance, and quiet devotion.
Global Rules of the Guinness World Record Attempt
The intense marathon reading was conducted in line with official regulations. These rules allow only very short breaks for participants to attend to basic human needs. Throughout the grueling challenge, Habibat Salawudeen received immense support from family members, friends, church members, and well-wishers. This collective backing turned the intense endurance event into a vibrant public expression of deep faith.
144 Hours of Marathon Reading Aloud in Port Harcourt
A dedicated member of Summit Bible Church in Port Harcourt, Habibat completed the 144-hour milestone on June 29. The inspiring challenge originally began on June 22 at the Novotel hotel in Port Harcourt. The strict environment required the participant to practice marathon reading aloud continuously while observing only minimal rest intervals.
Her Senior Pastor, Dr Andy Osakwe of Summit Bible Churches Worldwide, had described the project as more than a pursuit of a global title. He stated it was a spiritual project designed to exalt God’s Word and inspire believers.
Public Support for the Longest Bible Reading Marathon
The physical and online crowds grew larger as the clock ticked forward. The challenge attracted widespread support both physically and online, with videos showing Habibat reading from a lectern while digital timers tracked her progress.
“The attempt was a faith-driven initiative aimed at encouraging deeper engagement with Scripture.”
This incredible display follows the official recognition of another Nigerian, Samson Ajao, by Guinness World Records in 2024. The Ibadan-born reader set a stunning milestone after reading continuously for 215 hours. That feat comfortably surpassed the previous mark of 124 hours set by Kyrgyzstan’s Rysbai Isakov in 2022.
Waiting on Official Verification
The global reading community now turns its eyes to the official judges. Habibat’s performance will now await official verification by Guinness World Records before it can be recognised. If successful, her name will stand proud among global endurance record holders.
