Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has congratulated Mr. Stephen A. Oyelami, an Osun-born educationist, for achieving a historic milestone after breaking a Guinness World Record in marathon reading, describing the feat as a powerful symbol of dedication, perseverance, and intellectual excellence.
In a congratulatory message released by the Osun State Government, Governor Adeleke praised Oyelami for leading a team that successfully set a new world record for the Longest Marathon Reading Aloud by a Team, with an astonishing cumulative time of 431 hours, 31 minutes, and 25 seconds. The governor noted that the achievement has placed Osun State in a positive global spotlight.
According to Adeleke, the record-breaking feat represents more than just endurance; it reflects the value of hard work and commitment to education. He described the recognition by Guinness World Records as “a well-earned honour for extraordinary dedication,” adding that such accomplishments reinforce the belief that consistency and discipline can yield global recognition.
The governor expressed particular pride in Oyelami’s background, noting that the Iragberi-born achiever’s journey is a compelling story of excellence that should inspire young Nigerians. “Mr. Stephen Oyelami’s achievement renews hope and sends a strong message to our youths that hard work truly pays,” Adeleke said.
Commending the impact of the record on education advocacy, the governor stated that the marathon reading feat has reignited interest in reading culture, especially among young people. He noted that in an era of declining reading habits, Oyelami’s success serves as a timely reminder of the power of literacy and intellectual discipline.
“I heartily congratulate Mr. Stephen A. Oyelami on achieving the remarkable feat of breaking a Guinness World Record,” Adeleke said. “Setting a world record for the ‘Longest Marathon Reading Aloud’ in 431 hours, 31 minutes, and 25 seconds with his team is outstanding and truly deserving of celebration.”
The governor further described the achievement as a proud moment for Osun State, stressing that such global recognition reflects the intellectual capacity and resilience of the state’s people. “On behalf of the good people of Osun State, I celebrate this remarkable achievement,” he added.
Adeleke also acknowledged the immense effort behind the success, noting that sustaining such a demanding intellectual activity over several days required discipline, teamwork, and mental strength. “Looking at the level of dedication and effort put into this success, I have nothing but commendation for the incredible feat achieved,” he said.
Education stakeholders across the state have since described Oyelami’s record as a landmark achievement that aligns with ongoing efforts to promote education, literacy, and youth empowerment in Osun. Many have called on institutions to leverage the momentum generated by the feat to encourage reading culture in schools and communities.
In his message, the governor offered prayers for Oyelami’s continued success, asking God to grant him strength to excel in future endeavours. He also extended goodwill wishes to other Osun indigenes striving for excellence in their respective fields.
The statement, signed by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to celebrating excellence and promoting positive narratives about Osun on the global stage.
