Journalist Sets Sights On 72-Hour Interview Marathon To Spotlight Press Freedom
Abuja-based journalist Livinus Chibuike Victor is aiming to break the Guinness World Record for the longest interview marathon—72 hours of non-stop conversations—to champion press freedom in Nigeria.
The record attempt, sheduled for April 17–20, 2025, at Harrow Park Golf Club, Abuja, is tagged “Nigeria Our Strength” and will feature nonstop interviews with guests from various sectors, touching on democracy, civic responsibility, media ethics, and national development.
Speaking at a press briefing organised by the NUJ FCT Council, Victor described the marathon as a symbolic stand for a free and fearless press in the face of growing global threats including censorship, intimidation, and violence against journalists.
“This is more than just a personal milestone,” Victor said. “It’s a call to action. Journalists are democracy’s watchdogs. Where the press thrives, so does society.”
He emphasised the urgency of protecting press freedom, investing in quality journalism, and ensuring journalists’ safety. “Democracy cannot function without an informed public,” he added.
Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, hailed the initiative as bold and timely. “It’s not just about endurance,” she said. “It’s a powerful platform to amplify the voice of journalists and reaffirm the media’s role in advancing justice, accountability, and human rights.”
Ike also called for better welfare, training, and protections for journalists, warning that without these, democracy itself is at risk. “We must treat press freedom not as a privilege, but as a democratic right,” she stressed.
The NUJ FCT Council leadership including Vice Chairman Yahaya Ndambabo, Secretary Jide Oyekunle, and Treasurer Sandra Udeike also commended Victor and pledged support for the event.
The 72-hour marathon will be open to the public, with opportunities to participate as guests or audience members in what promises to be a landmark moment for journalism in Nigeria.
