By Rose Peter Graham
A 24-year-old hairstylist from Lagos, Ikechukwu Damilola, popularly known as “Transformation King,” has reached the 90-hour mark in his attempt to set a new Guinness World Record (GWR) for the longest haircut marathon.
The record attempt, which began on June 10, is taking place at the Oto-Awori Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Ijanikin, Lagos State, and is being monitored by Guinness World Records officials.
Damilola is aiming to complete a gruelling 120-hour hairdressing marathon and had successfully crossed the 90-hour milestone as of Sunday, leaving just 30 hours to achieve his target.
Community Rallies Behind Record Attempt
The marathon has attracted significant support from residents, government officials, and members of the beauty industry.
Chairman of the Oto-Awori LCDA, Kareem Abiodun, one of the sponsors of the event, described the initiative as an inspiring example of youth empowerment and skills development.
According to him, the attempt demonstrates how vocational skills can create opportunities and positively impact society.
Passion Turned Into Purpose
Speaking during the event, Damilola said his passion for hairdressing began in 2006 and has since grown into a career through which he has trained and mentored others.
The graduate of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Oto-Ijanikin, said he hopes his achievement will inspire young Nigerians to embrace skill acquisition and entrepreneurship.
“I am driven by the belief that wealth and opportunity can also come from skills and talent,” he said.
“Another source of my inspiration after God is the zeal to make people look good, for looking good is good business.”
Government Officials Visit Venue
The ongoing marathon has attracted visits from several state government officials, including the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, and the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule.
Supporters and well-wishers have continued to troop to the venue to encourage the young hairstylist as he pushes toward completing the challenge.
Growing Interest in Record-Breaking Attempts
In recent years, several Nigerians have embarked on Guinness World Record attempts in different fields, drawing global attention to local talents and creativity.
Damilola’s effort has added to the growing list of ambitious record-breaking attempts by Nigerians seeking to showcase their skills on the world stage.
With only a few hours left before reaching his target, supporters remain hopeful that he will successfully complete the marathon and secure a place in the Guinness World Records.