12th March, 2024
By Jethro Ibileke
Edo Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has rewarded Angel Osariemen Asein with the sum of ₦20 million for breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest Read-Aloud Read-a-thon competition.
The record-breaking event unfolded at the Edo State Library within the Edo State Secretariat Complex, marking a historic moment.
Angel’s resolute spirit propelled her beyond the previous record of 145 hours, ultimately reaching an impressive 230 hours.
She read continuously, without pausing for more than 30 seconds, captivating the attention of attendees from diverse backgrounds, including children, students, and dignitaries.
In recognition of her remarkable dedication, Governor Godwin Obaseki commended her efforts, emphasizing the significance of nurturing a culture of education and aspiration among the youth.
He noted that Angel’s official attempt to break the Guinness World Record stood as a testament to her unwavering determination and perseverance.
Speaking during her visit to Angel, wife of the Governor, Mrs Betsy Obaseki, expressed profound pride and described her as an inspiration and a beacon of hope to the younger generation.
According to her, “When young girls like her see what she is doing, it will inspire them, encourage them, give them hope, and push them to break records.”
The celebration of Angel’s achievement was marked by a formal event attended by dignitaries and well-wishers, including Engineer Greg Ogbeifun, Chairman of Benin River Port, who highlighted the transformative impact of Angel’s accomplishment on young children.
Also, Professor John Asien, Director General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, conveyed gratitude to Angel for her inspiring achievement, which brought pride to Edo State and Nigeria as a whole.
On her part, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, underscored the importance of fostering reading champions among Edo children. She commended Angel for exemplifying this during the readathon.
At the celebration, Dr. Uyi Malaika, Edo State Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Diaspora Affairs, expressed immense pride and joy in honoring Angel Osariemen Asein’s extraordinary achievement in completing the Guinness World Record Reading Marathon.
Isimeme Whyte, the CEO of Genius Hub and Angel’s official Public Relations Agency, reiterated their unwavering support for Angel’s vision to promote education and reading.
Angel was bestowed with the title of Ambassador for the Nigerian Copyright Commission and also received a free one-year health insurance scheme from the Edo State Government.
Additionally, she received a premium Mouka Foam as a token of appreciation.
By this feat, Angel’s name has been enshrined in history, forever commemorated as a record-breaker and a beacon of determination and dedication.