Nigeria Reads Initiative has successfully completed its attempt at the Guinness World Record for the Longest Read Aloud Marathon by a Team, achieving over 430 hours (18 days) of continuous reading featuring 79 works of Nigerian literature.

Founded as a nonprofit organization, Nigeria Reads Initiative began its journey with the establishment of the Tasha Community Library under their Friends of the Library project. The organization’s core mission, according to Team Lead Kingsley Sintim, goes beyond the record attempt itself. “For us, this Guinness World Record attempt is not an end in itself but a vehicle to amplify a much larger vision: to reignite the love of reading among Nigerians, celebrate the brilliance of Nigerian authors, and bring young people together in unity around a cause that cuts across diversity, class, and geography.”

The Naija ReadFest, as the record attempt was called, featured 79 works of Nigerian literature, showcasing the rich literary heritage of the country while creating a platform for celebrating Nigerian authors and their contributions to world literature.

What sets this campaign apart, according to Sintim, is its dual focus on visibility and sustainability. Beyond the public visibility that the ReadFest generates, the organization has developed sustainability plans that ensure the ripple effect continues long after the Guinness attempt concluded. These include community-centered literacy hubs serving as resource-rich centers for all ages, home-based reading corners designed for disadvantaged households using recycled materials, and leveraging technology to expand literacy through digital platforms.

The Nigeria Reads Initiative’s record attempt was part of their ongoing programming, which has always focused on mobilizing latent educational opportunities, amplifying literacy for marginalized communities, and shaping a new culture of learning.The Naija ReadFest represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s literary landscape, demonstrating how record-breaking attempts can serve as catalysts for broader social change and a revival of latent reading culture.