Press freedom, media advancement top agenda as Journalist embarks on 72-hour Marathon interview

In the heart of Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, a groundbreaking media event is set to unfold as Chibuike Livinus Victor, a passionate and determined journalist, prepares to attempt a Guinness World Record for the longest continuous interview marathon.

The feat, scheduled from April 17 to April 20, 2025, at Harrow Golf Club, will see him engage in nonstop interviews for 72 hours and 30 seconds, a test of not only endurance but also intellectual stamina and journalistic depth.

What makes this record attempt especially meaningful is its strong focus on issues that directly impact journalists and the media industry.

Among the topics expected to dominate the marathon are the state of press freedom in Nigeria a crucial concern for many in the profession.

Through conversations with legal experts, media rights advocates, and journalists who have faced threats or censorship, Victor aims to highlight the growing challenges of practicing journalism in restrictive environments, and what can be done to protect the right to report freely.

Victor, who has built a reputation for his engaging interview style and deep understanding of current affairs, is curating a diverse lineup of guests from across sectors; politics, civil society, media, business, tech, and everyday life.

He will also explore the often-neglected subject of ethical journalism, especially in the age of misinformation and clickbait. In these sessions, newsroom leaders and journalism trainers will share insights on maintaining credibility and truth in reporting, while navigating the pressures of digital competition and financial constraints.

The marathon will further include interviews focused on journalism innovation and media advancement. From artificial intelligence in newsrooms to data journalism, podcasting, and immersive storytelling, Victor intends to showcase how technology is reshaping the way stories are gathered, told, and consumed.

These discussions are expected to offer practical ideas and inspiration for journalists seeking to evolve with the times without compromising standards.

A significant portion of the marathon will shed light on journalist welfare and safety. Victor plans to have open conversations about mental health in the newsroom, the stress of covering conflict or disaster, and the job insecurity that many media workers face.

These candid discussions with both experts and field reporters aim to spark new thinking on how the industry can better care for its own.

Gender equality and the representation of women in the media will also be explored through conversations with leading female journalists, editors, and advocates.

Victor wants to bring visibility to the systemic challenges women face in journalism, from unequal pay to underrepresentation in leadership, while promoting ideas for a more inclusive media culture.

As the start date approaches, excitement continues to build across the country and on social media, where journalists, students, and supporters are rallying behind the event with encouraging messages and hashtags.

For Victor, this isn’t just about setting a record—it’s about using the platform to elevate journalism, celebrate its values, and advocate for a stronger, more resilient media landscape.

With a dedicated team of health professionals, timekeepers, and technical crew on standby, Victor is physically and mentally preparing for the challenge.

Every minute of the marathon will be closely monitored to ensure compliance with Guinness World Records guidelines, which require that interviews remain active, engaging, and continuous, with minimal rest breaks allowed.

Whether or not the record is broken, Chibuike Livinus Victor’s attempt is already a powerful statement. It underscores the enduring importance of storytelling, the courage it takes to ask the hard questions, and the limitless potential of journalism when driven by purpose.

For the media community, his interviews won’t just entertain, they will inform, challenge, and inspire.