We want more Africans setting records – Guinness

Guinness World Records (GWR) is encouraging more Africans to follow in the footsteps of Nigerians when it comes to trying to break records.

Though it comes with a warning that people must register their efforts first and follow the rules.

We’ve reported that record breaking has become something of a craze in Nigeria since chef Hilda Baci’s four-day cook-a-thon in May was recognised by GWR.

The record-keeping body has now quantified the craze.

GWR’s editor-in-chief Craig Glenday told BBC Focus on Africa that his organisation has received 1,572 applications from Nigerians for record attempts since chef Hilda hit the headlines.

People have been crying non-stop, massaging non-stop and frying huge amounts of snails, among other things – all in an effort to get recognition.

“I really like it when people are passionate about record-breaking,” Mr Glenday said.

“We definitely want to see more people from Africa generally setting records – it’s a good thing.”

But he added that GWR wants to be notified first so they can assess the record attempt and see if it is measurable and establish the rules.

Mr Glenday said 95% of record attempts get rejected.
By BBC