…says he’s optimistic to be recognized by GDR
Ekiti Chief and Guinness World Record aspirant, Sanya Atofarati, has completed his 120 hours challenge to set new world record for Longest Marathon of Watching Television.
Atofarati, a community leader and creative artist, who began the marathon challenge on Wednesday, December 27, 2023 ended it on Monday, January 1, 2024 after clocking the targeted 120hours in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.
The moment was had the presence of supporters across gender and age brackets with songs of victory and the celebration of the completion of the challenge.
Atofarati, who said he was out to break the 94 hours set by the present GWR holder in the category, Fragoso, a web developer from New York, holding the record since 2016, expressed hope that he would be certified by GWR after verification of his evidences.
Atofarati, in a chat in Ado Ekiti on Monday said, “We are optimistic of being recognized as the new record holder because all the prescriptions outlined in our Personal Guidelines were meticulously and diligently followed.
“All our evidence requirements are ready because they were treated to real-time. It will be reviewed and submitted to GWR with the next 72hours,” he said.
Atofarati, who appreciated Nigerians for their support during the exercise, saying it was a privilege to have represented Nigeria in the competition, said, “By tomorrow (Tuesday), I will be making the first appearance in Ilawe Ekiti where I will be celebrating the success with about 100 widows.
“Watching TV for 120 hours has strengthened my knowledge base because I am better informed about the world and happenings around me which I believe will further enhance my capacity to deliver.
“I am of the belief that the exercise has further added value to tourism benefits in Nigeria. I thank Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State; Senator Biodun Olujimi; and the Director General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre for encouragement and support.
“I also appreciate the Alawe of Ilawe Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Alabi; former Deputy Speaker of Ekiti State, Segun Adewumi; Ekiti State former Commissioner for Works, Mrs Funmi Ogun; Mrs Lanre Fajuyi; the host community under Elder Sunday Agunbiade; host of others too numerous to mention and my wife, Mrs Orobosa Atofarati,” he said.