An Abuja-based journalist, Livinus Chibuike Victor, is set to undertake a 72-hour marathon interview session aimed at promoting press freedom and highlighting the vital role of journalism in strengthening democracy.
The event, which doubled as a Guinness World Record attempt for the longest interview marathon, is scheduled to take place from April 17 to 20, 2025, at Harrow Park Golf Club, off Ahmadu Bello Way, behind Abia House, Central Business District, Abuja. Themed “Nigeria Our Strength,” the initiative seeks to draw attention to the challenges facing the media industry while celebrating its contributions to national development.
Addressing journalists at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council Secretariat on Thursday, Victor said the event is a symbolic and collective act to underscore the importance of a free and fearless press in a thriving democracy.
He expressed concern over growing global threats to press freedom—including censorship, harassment, and violence—while emphasizing that journalists remain resilient in upholding truth and accountability.
“As misinformation spreads and trust in institutions weakens, professional journalism stands as a vital defense against disinformation and manipulation,” he said.
Victor called for increased investment in quality journalism, protection for media professionals, and recognition of journalists as critical agents of transparency and civic empowerment. “Where journalists are free and protected, the people are better informed and society is stronger,” he added.
He noted that the 72-hour marathon will feature engaging and thought-provoking interviews with key individuals from diverse sectors, exploring themes such as national development, civic responsibility, media ethics, and freedom of expression.
NUJ FCT Council Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, described the initiative as courageous and timely. In her keynote speech titled “Press Freedom: The Foundation of Democracy,” she praised Victor’s commitment to using the platform to amplify the voices of journalists and advocate for stronger media protections.
“This initiative is more than a display of endurance; it is a platform to highlight the voice of the media across the globe on issues that matter deeply to all of us,” she said.
Ike decried the increasing threats faced by journalists globally and called for urgent reforms to ensure media practitioners are not only protected but also adequately compensated and trained.
“Press freedom is not a privilege it is a fundamental pillar of democracy,” she said. “Protecting this freedom is our collective responsibility.”
She also highlighted the impact of rapid technological change on the media and urged journalists to embrace innovation while adhering to ethical standards. On journalists’ welfare, Ike made a strong case for improved conditions of service to sustain the profession and its watchdog role in society.
Other NUJ FCT officials present at the media briefing including the Vice Chairman, Mr. Yahaya Ndambabo; Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle; and Treasurer, Sandra Udeike commended Victor’s initiative and reaffirmed the union’s commitment to defending press freedom in Nigeria.
The 72-hour interview marathon is expected to attract wide participation from the media, civil society, government officials, and the public. It aimed to serve not only as a record-setting event but also as a rallying call for a more informed, just, and democratic society.
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