Osariemen Patience eyes Guinness World Records of longest read-aloud marathon

An indigene of Edo State, Osariemen Patience, is set to embark on a 200-hour “longest read-aloud marathon by an individual” for the Guinness World Record.

Guinness World Records, also known as The Guinness Book of Records and The Guinness Book of World Records in earlier US editions, is an annual reference book published in the United Kingdom.

The book lists world records for both human accomplishments and the extremes of the natural world. Norris and Ross McWhirter, twin brothers, and Sir Hugh Beaver collaborated to start the book on Fleet Street, London, in August 1955.

The first edition was at the top of the bestselling list in the UK in 1955, the book was published in 100 countries and 23 languages the next year, and as of the 2022 edition, it is now in its 67th year of publication with a database containing more than 53,000 records.

Patience’s attempt is scheduled at the Edo State Library, Edo State Secretariat Complex along Sapele Road, Benin City from February 23 to March 3rd, 2024.

Patience, a Diploma graduate of Maritime Engineering from the University of Benin and a current 500-level final-year student from the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Biology at Lagos State University, envisions that this will provide a unique opportunity to inspire individuals to explore the world of literature, especially Benin literature and culture heritage; spread awareness about irregular migration, human trafficking, climate change.

The 200-hour read-a-thon will feature continuous reading sessions covering carefully curated themes on Benin’s history and cultural heritage, migration, human trafficking, climate change, and art sessions, amongst others.

Genius Hub, the organisation responsible for the event, is committed to nurturing and overseeing talent growth, in accordance with Osariemen’s aspiration to advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as quality education, gender equality, economic growth, among others, and has generously provided their assistance without seeking any financial benefit from her.

Also, Isimeme Whyte, Genius Hub’s founder and chief innovation officer is passionate about Osariemen’s Guinness World Record attempt, emphasisng the significant impact of this initiative in advancing the achievement of the SDG through literacy.

Under the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki, Edo State’s Government donated the sum of ten million Naira towards the success of the read-a-thon.

Osariemen’s vision was supported by a few Edo state aristocrats including Betsy Obaseki, First Lady of Edo state. Joan Osa-Oviawe, commissioner for Education. Uyi Jennifer Oduwa-Malaka, commissioner for Arts, Culture and Greg Ogbeifun, the MD/CEO of Starz Marine and Engineering Limited, and Chairman Starz Investments Company Limited.

In addition, the Edo State Ministry of Education through its EdoBest programme also launched the Book and Art Festival with the maiden theme “Every Child a Reading Champion”.

This emphasises one of its strategic thrusts to stimulate a reading habit among students and Edo citizens, more than 60 percent of the literary work to be read by Osariemen are based on Benin history and the Benin cultural heritage thus promoting Benin art and culture to a global audience.

Speaking about her approval by GWR for the attempt, she expressed her excitement and determination, stating, “I am honoured and grateful to have received the approval from Guinness World Records. This is an incredible opportunity to promote the importance of reading and highlight the cultural richness of Edo State. I hope my efforts inspire others to embrace the power of books and storytelling.”

According to a post on her Instagram handle @Angelriemen, “the event will be opened to the public, emphasising community engagement.”

She described the read-a-thon as “a journey of discovery, enlightenment, and inspiration. It is a retelling of the Edo story and the propagation of the dignity and rich cultural heritage of the Edo people to a global audience.”