…….As Oto-Awori LCDA Boss Rallies Behind Damilola’s Historic 120-Hour Guinness World Record Hairdressing Attempt
Emmanuel lkpeama.
LAGOS – Nigerian hairstylist, Ikechukwu Damilola, has reaffirmed his determination to break the Guinness World Record for the longest hairdressing marathon as he continues his ambitious 120-hour challenge in Lagos, drawing massive support from family, community leaders, government officials and admirers.
Damilola, who commenced the five-day endurance attempt on June 10 at Unique Unity Lounge, Iyana-Era, Ijanikin, Lagos, said his motivation goes beyond personal achievement, stressing that the challenge is aimed at showcasing Nigeria’s immense creative potential on the global stage.
According to him, the marathon represents a platform to inspire young Nigerians to believe in their talents and pursue excellence regardless of the obstacles they encounter.
“This challenge is not just about setting a record. It is about proving that dreams are valid and that Nigerian youths can compete with the best in the world.”
“I want this achievement to serve as motivation for young people who may be struggling to find confidence in their abilities,” he said.
Damilola noted that the overwhelming support from family members, fans, friends, government officials and well-wishers has strengthened his determination to complete the challenge successfully.
“The encouragement I have received has been incredible. Every visit, every prayer and every word of support gives me fresh energy to continue. I am focused on finishing strong and making Nigeria proud,” he added.
As the marathon entered its second day, the atmosphere at the venue remained vibrant, with supporters trooping in to cheer the hairstylist as he worked tirelessly through the demanding schedule.
One of the emotional moments of the event came when Damilola’s mother,Dr.Mrs. Nwagwo, spoke with journalists and reflected on her son’s journey from childhood to becoming a respected figure in the hairstyling industry.
Fighting back emotions, she described the record attempt as the culmination of years of sacrifice, determination and unwavering faith.
“As a mother, I am overwhelmed with joy seeing my son pursue his dream on such a global platform. There were days when many people doubted him and questioned his choices, but he remained focused and committed to his passion. Today, those years of hard work are speaking for him,” she said.Dr.Mrs. Nwagwo revealed that Damilola had always demonstrated exceptional creativity and persistence from an early age, often finding unique ways to express himself through art and fashion.
“He has always believed that ordinary things can be transformed into something extraordinary. That mindset is what brought him this far. We are praying for him and we believe God will crown his efforts with success,” she added.
She also urged parents to support their children’s talents rather than forcing them into career paths that do not align with their passions.
“Every child carries a unique gift. Parents should learn to nurture those gifts because greatness often comes from places we least expect,” she said.
Also speaking, Damilola’s father, Engr. Paul Nwagwo, described his son as naturally innovative and adventurous, noting that his passion for hairstyling had grown steadily over the years into a thriving career marked by excellence and originality.
“He has worked tirelessly to get to this stage. What many people are seeing today is the result of years of dedication, discipline and consistency. We are proud of him and confident that he will achieve his goal,” he said.
Support for the Guinness World Record attempt has continued to grow across Oto-Awori LCDA.
The management and students of Chizy Lite High School paid a solidarity visit to the venue, praising Damilola’s resilience and describing his effort as a shining example of what young people can achieve through hard work and determination.
The delegation noted that his commitment to excellence serves as a powerful lesson to students about perseverance, self-belief and the value of pursuing one’s dreams.
In a major show of institutional backing, the Executive Chairman of Oto-Awori Local Council Development Area, Hon. Kareem Azeez Abiodun, led a high-powered delegation of council officials to the venue to personally encourage the hairstylist.
The Chairman who was represented by his Voice Chairman,Hon Taiwo described Damilola’s feat as more than a record attempt, saying it represents the spirit of innovation, enterprise and resilience that defines the youth of Oto-Awori.
Read also:Lagos Hairstylist, Ikechukwu Targets Historic 120-Hour Guinness World Record Marathon
“We are witnessing history in the making. Damilola’s courage and determination demonstrate what is possible when talent meets opportunity. His journey sends a powerful message that success is attainable through hard work, discipline and perseverance,” Hon. Kareem said.
He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to youth empowerment and talent development, adding that the administration would continue to support initiatives that create opportunities for young people to excel locally and internationally.
According to him, Damilola’s achievement, if successfully validated, will not only bring honour to himself but also place Oto-Awori LCDA and Lagos State on the global map of excellence and creativity.
The 120-hour marathon, which will run until June 15, is being conducted under strict Guinness World Records guidelines, with accredited observers and timekeepers documenting every stage of the exercise.
Organisers described the event as a celebration of creativity, entrepreneurship and determination, expressing optimism that Damilola’s effort will further elevate the profile of Nigeria’s growing creative industry.
As the countdown to the final day continues, supporters remain hopeful that the determined hairstylist will successfully complete the challenge and etch his name into the Guinness World Records, inspiring a new generation of dreamers and achievers across Nigeria. :::