By Chris Onuoha 

Samson Ajao is a world record title holder of the Guinness world record for the ‘Longest Marathon Reading Aloud’. He is a passionate reader and prolific writer, who recently got confirmed as the newest Guinness World Record (GWR) holder for the Longest Marathon Reading Aloud, 2024 edition.

Ajao challenged the world record holder, Rysbai Isakov from Bursa, Turkey who hit the time of 124 hours in 2022 challenge. Samson Ajao who put all plans ahead of his trial to beat the current champion. He successfully exceeded the marging of the last winner with a record breaking 214 hours of non-stop read aloud in an audience filled space.

Samson cemented his status as a literacy development advocate, and his journey is one of perseverance, intellectual curiosity, deep love for the written word, and exceeding limits. 

The Osun State born, holds a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Business Administration from Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, and a Customer Relationship Management Professional certified by Cutting Edge Professional. 

Among his academic antecedents as a leader, was serving as the President, Students Union Government, Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, during the 2020/2021 session. In addition he currently serves as the chairman, Old Boys Association of Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan, his alma mater where he fosters Old Boys’ relations towards the growth of the school.

“As a bibliophile, I have always been propelled by a desire to motivate others to inculcate a reading culture and self-development, reflecting my unending love for reading and passion to encourage literacy development,” remarked Samson to Vanguard in a recent interview. 

The voracious and passionate reader said his passion for learning and written words extends beyond reading books, allowing him to successfully found Amokoko Consult, a renowned writing service and business consulting firm. Ajao has provided writing services and innovative business solutions to a diverse range of clients, driving their success and growth. As he continues to exceed limits and set new records in the literary field, his story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration to the generation that embraces reading culture and personal development.

“I have always find myself at the front line inspiring people. And at that point in time, I want to bring back the lost reading culture in our society and encourage people to always pursue their dream,” remarked Samson.

During his recent read aloud session, Ajao said he did not have any fear, but focused and was optimistic. According to him, the cheers from the crowd and support he received from all around the world made him strong.

“I was driven by my passion for reading and with every page I want to read more. I selected materials that explain realities of the world. I read aloud continuously. It was not bored but it was difficult, I went through pains but I kept going with people’s support.

Explaing further, Ajao said about 100 books, that evolved around finance, leadership, personal development, politics, african heritage, poem among others were his chosen slot.

“The audience support was great, more than words can express. It was the fuel that kept me going. Dignitaries from all walks of life supported me. Among them were Her Excellency, Erelu Ngozi Adeleke, Wife of the Governor,  Osun State; Rt. Hon. Wale Egbedun, Speaker, State Assembly, Osun State.

“Others include honourable members of the National Assembly that include Hon. Bamidele Salam; Osun State Commissioner for Education, Commissioner for Youth, SSA on student matters to the governor, while the General Manager, Adolak Hotel Investment and Vice President, Lagelu Grammar School Ibadan Old Boys Association supported.

“The support was massive as I wouldn’t still forget to mention valuable resource contacts such as the School Management Osun State Polytechnic Iree, Osun State Polytechnic Iree Alumni Association, Chief Akinkunmi Alabi, General Manager, Fresh Fm, Osogbo; Dr. Daramola, Uni 

Osun Teaching Hospital, Director, Red Cross Osun, Western Sun TV manager, CEO, Alfa Jeje Agba Channel among others,” Ajao added.

While narrating his experience, Ajao noted that it means a dream come true to him. “I have always wanted to promote literacy development. Yes, to ignite reading culture and ignite the intellectual curiosity of the people so that they can be equipped with knowledge to solve the problems facing our society

Ajao noted that his quest to explore the benefits of the contest would not end in one off project. “After the event, I have been reading, I am currently working on a book that is a secret to success, and rolling out some initiatives to encourage reading in our society,” added Ajao.