German based Nigerian cloud engineer, Abel Yakubu, has completed a staggering 60 hour marathon programming lesson in Abuja a feat aimed at smashing the current Guinness World Record of 48 hours, 15 minutes for the longest computer programming class.
Yakubu began the attempt at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 21, and wrapped up at 11 p.m. on Sunday, November 23, at the Minds and Emotions Centre, Graceland Garden, Wuse 2. The entire session was streamed live across major social media platforms.
The marathon drew 60 in person students, with over 25 official witnesses monitoring the record attempt a moment many have described as a significant milestone for Nigeria’s fast-growing tech ecosystem.
With more than a decade of experience in cloud engineering, Yakubu spent the marathon teaching across major cloud platforms including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure. He said his motivation goes beyond the record itself.
“I undertook this challenge to inspire young tech enthusiasts to develop profound tech skills, especially now that AI adoption is rising globally,” he said. “It is important for young people to build hands on skills.”
Yakubu revealed that he spent two months preparing, noting that the toughest part was staying alert through the nights.
“For three days, I’ve been speaking non stop. My voice is almost gone,” he said. “Training people on cloud computing all night is tough. But I was inspired young people are the reason I’m doing this.”
A passionate advocate for digital literacy, Yakubu urged young Nigerians to embrace technology, noting that he has already trained over 200 youths in one year.
“This is the right time to learn tech skills,” he said. “Parents should encourage their children. You can never go wrong learning a skill.”
Participants praised Yakubu’s ability to simplify complex concepts.
Fawole Blessing described the marathon as “relaxing and impactful,” while Adula Joseph Francis said he attended out of curiosity but ended up staying all three days.
“The way he breaks things down is exceptional,” Joseph said. “This challenge shows anything is possible if you set your mind to it.”
Yakubu thanked the Minds and Emotions Centre and his support team for helping coordinate the event.
Guinness World Records is now expected to review all evidence before confirming whether the 60 hour lesson officially sets a new world record.
