Journalist targets record breaking 72-hour marathon interview for press freedom

An Abuja-based journalist, Livinus Chibuike Victor, has planned to embark on a 72-hour marathon interview to promote press freedom in Nigeria.

The historic Guinness World Record attempt for the longest interviewing marathon with the theme, “Nigeria our strength” is scheduled to take place from April 17 to 20, 2025, at Harrow Park Golf Club, off Ahmadu Bello Way, behind Abia House, CBD, Abuja.

Addressing newsmen at the Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council on Thursday on the marathon, Victor said despite increasing threats to press freedom across the world including censorship, harassment, and violence, journalists continue to carry out their mission with courage and integrity.

He described journalists as the pillars of democracy and guardians of truth, noting that their role in promoting transparency, challenging power, and giving voice to the voiceless cannot be overemphasized.

According to him, in the face of mounting global pressures—ranging from media censorship to targeted attacks on reporters—journalists have continued to uphold the core values of truth and accountability.

“As misinformation spreads and trust in institutions wavers, professional journalism remains a vital defense against disinformation and manipulation,” he said.

Victor emphasized the need to protect press freedom, invest in quality journalism, end the harassment of media professionals, and recognize the indispensable role of journalists in building and sustaining open societies.

He said the strength of any democracy lies in how empowered its press is, stressing that where journalists are free and protected, the people are better informed and society is stronger.

“As the world reflects on the vital role journalists play in upholding democratic values,” Victor said, “I am proud to announce a historic Guinness World Record attempt for the longest interviewing marathon tagged ‘Nigeria Our Strength’.”

He said the initiative is more than a personal milestone—it is a symbolic and collective act to draw national and international attention to the centrality of a free press in a thriving democracy.

“The record attempt aims to highlight the enduring impact of journalism in a democratic society, a profession that continues to educate, empower, and hold those in power accountable,” Victor stated. “In an age where truth is often under siege, this initiative seeks to draw attention to the essential need for a free, ethical, and fearless press.”

He noted that the world cannot afford a future where journalists are silenced, intimidated, or killed for doing their job. He added that the record-breaking attempt is his contribution to the broader call for respect, safety, and dignity for journalists in Nigeria and globally.

“Democracy is impossible without an informed public, and journalists are the ones who make that possible,” he said. “This attempt is not just about setting a new world record; it’s about celebrating truth, integrity, and the powerful role journalism plays in building and sustaining open societies.”

According to him, the Guinness World Record attempt will feature a series of engaging and thought-provoking interviews with notable individuals from diverse sectors, reflecting on national development, media ethics, civic responsibility, and freedom of expression.

He said the event will also include discussions on the challenges and prospects facing the Nigerian media industry, spotlighting the courage and resilience of practitioners who continue to work under difficult and, at times, dangerous circumstances.

Victor called on members of the public, media professionals, civic leaders, and advocates of democracy to be part of the experience by supporting and witnessing the event as it unfolds over the course of three inspiring days.

He thanked the NUJ FCT Council for its support and called for more collaboration across the media, civil society, and governance sectors to safeguard press freedom and deepen the culture of accountability in the country.

“This is our story to tell,” he concluded. “It is our voice to raise. It is our democracy to defend. And the time is now.”

In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, praised the initiative as timely and courageous, describing it as a bold reflection of the enduring power of journalism to inform, educate, and drive societal progress.

Delivering a speech titled ‘Press Freedom: The Foundation of Democracy’, Comrade Ike said the 72-hour interview marathon is more than just a showcase of physical endurance but a meaningful platform to amplify the voices of journalists on issues that matter globally.

“This initiative is more than a showcase of endurance; it is a platform to amplify the voice of the media across the globe on issues that matter deeply to all of us,” she said.

Ike reiterated that press freedom, media enhancement, and the resilience of journalists remain central to the work of the union and must be upheld as non-negotiable values in any democratic society.

“Press freedom is not a privilege—it is a fundamental pillar of democracy. Protecting this freedom is our collective responsibility as journalists, policymakers, and citizens of the world,” she said.

She decried the growing threats faced by journalists in Nigeria and globally, ranging from censorship and harassment to intimidation and even death. According to her, these dangers not only hinder the ability of journalists to report the truth but also pose a direct threat to democratic structures.

“Through this 72-hour interview marathon, we aim to spotlight these issues and advocate for stronger protections for journalists in every corner of the world,” she said. “Press freedom must be non-negotiable in every society that aspires to justice, accountability, and equality.”

The NUJ FCT Chairperson also touched on the urgent need for media enhancement in the face of rapid technological evolution. While acknowledging the benefits of digital innovation, she warned against the dangers of misinformation, fake news, and declining public trust in the media.

“As journalists, we must embrace innovation while holding firmly to the ethical standards that define our profession,” she stated, adding that capacity building and training are crucial for the media to stay relevant and credible.

She expressed pride in the NUJ FCT Council’s commitment to providing opportunities for professional development and assured that under her leadership, capacity enhancement would remain a top priority.

On journalists’ welfare, Comrade Ike issued a strong call to action. She noted that many journalists operate under harsh and unsafe conditions without fair compensation or job security, and that such realities threaten the sustainability of the profession.

“If we are to continue holding the powerful accountable, we must advocate for better welfare for journalists everywhere,” she said. “It is my hope that this event will draw attention to the need for fair compensation, adequate training, and professional safety for all media practitioners.”

She described the 72-hour marathon as not just a local event, but a global dialogue involving thought leaders, policymakers, and the public on issues that cut across borders—from governance and climate change to human rights and education.

“Let this also serve as a moment of introspection and growth for the media. We must work harder to earn trust, listen to diverse voices, and tell stories that inspire change,” she added.

As the first female Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Ike expressed personal pride in the symbolic power of the event, saying it offers an opportunity to break barriers, redefine narratives, and build a lasting legacy for future generations of journalists.

“We invite members in the FCT to be active participants in this historic initiative. As an interviewer or a member of our audience, your contribution matters. Together, we can use the power of the media to bring about a freer, more informed, and more equitable world,” she said.

“Let the 72-hour interview marathon mark a turning point for the media and society at large. Long live press freedom. Long live the Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Council.”

In attendance at the briefing also were the Vice Chairman, NUJ FCT, Mr. Yahaya Ndambabo, the Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle and the Treasurer, Sandra Udeike, who also commended Victor and made their case for the need to protect press freedom in the country.