In a moment that has captured the imagination of tech enthusiasts across Nigeria and beyond, a Nigerian cloud engineer has officially set a new Guinness World Record for the longest computer programming lesson. Abel Yakubu, a Germany-based professional with roots in Nigeria, achieved this remarkable milestone after leading a continuous 60-hour marathon class on computer programming in Abuja. Guinness World Records has confirmed his feat, affirming his place in history and shining a bright spotlight on Nigeria’s potential in global technology education.
The achievement did not come overnight. It was the result of meticulous planning, unwavering commitment and a powerful belief that young Nigerians can excel in cutting-edge technological fields. Yakubu’s successful record attempt now serves as a beacon of inspiration for a new generation of tech learners and innovators.
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A Marathon Lesson That Broke Records
The record-setting event took place at the Minds and Emotions Centre in Wuse 2, Abuja, running non-stop from the morning of Friday, November 21 to the night of Sunday, November 23, 2025. This three-day programming session lasted a full 60 hours, eclipsing the previous global best of 48 hours and 15 minutes.
What made this attempt official was not just the duration but the strict adherence to Guinness World Records protocols. The session was supported by 30 dedicated participants and observed by more than 20 independent witnesses. Over 25 official observers were on hand to monitor proceedings and ensure that the entire lesson met all the criteria set by the record body.
During the marathon, Yakubu guided learners through advanced topics in cloud computing, focusing on leading platforms such as Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure. These are skills that have become critically important as digital transformation and artificial intelligence continue to reshape industries worldwide.
The lesson was streamed live across major social media platforms, allowing thousands of online viewers at home and in diaspora communities to follow the event as it happened in real time. This ensured strong transparency and allowed many young people to benefit from the session even if they were not present physically.
The Man Behind the Record
Abel Yakubu is not new to cloud engineering. With over a decade of experience in the field and a professional base at NexEdge Technologies in Germany, he has devoted much of his career to teaching and mentoring young tech aspirants. His work has seen him train more than 200 young Nigerians in practical digital skills over the last year alone.
Yakubu’s motivation for the record went beyond personal achievement. He described the marathon as a way to show what consistent effort, teamwork and belief can accomplish. According to him, many young Nigerians have the talent and drive to excel in technology careers, but they need opportunities and encouragement to unlock that potential.
He spent two months preparing for the challenge physically and mentally. Yakubu admits that the overnight hours were the toughest part of the exercise, pushing his endurance to the limit as he maintained focus and clarity while speaking and teaching continuously.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond making headline news, Yakubu’s accomplishment has sparked renewed conversations about technology education in Nigeria. At a time when digital skills like cloud computing, software development and artificial intelligence are in high global demand, this record highlights how Nigerians at home and abroad can contribute to the nation’s growth in the digital economy.
Participants of the marathon training praised the experience for its depth and hands-on approach. Many young learners who attended said the immersive environment and clear teaching style helped them grasp complex technical topics with confidence.
Yakubu has also made a call to parents and stakeholders to invest more in digital literacy for children and young adults. He points out that acquiring practical tech skills does not just lead to good jobs but can also foster innovation, drive local solutions to local problems and boost economic participation in the global tech ecosystem.
As part of his vision going forward, he plans to expand outreach efforts, working with educational institutions and tech hubs to bring more training opportunities to underserved communities. Many see this as an important step in closing the digital divide in Nigeria and expanding access to quality tech education across the country.
A Boost for Nigeria’s Tech Profile
In recent years, Nigeria has become a major player in Africa’s technology landscape, with a growing number of startups, innovators and digital entrepreneurs making global headlines. Yakubu’s Guinness World Record adds a new chapter to this story by showcasing Nigerian talent on a world stage and proving that giant achievements are possible with focus and passion.
The importance of this accomplishment goes beyond national pride. It underscores the value of investing in skills that align with future economic trends. As companies and industries increasingly adopt cloud technologies, demand grows for professionals who understand how to build, manage and secure cloud-based systems. Nigeria’s place in this global trend depends on how quickly it can prepare its workforce for the future of work.
In schools, universities and tech hubs across the country, educators have welcomed Yakubu’s record as a teaching moment. Many have said it opens up opportunities for discussions on curriculum reform and the integration of practical tech training in education. This, they argue, is necessary if Nigeria is to fully harness the energy and creativity of its youth in building a stronger digital economy.
In homes and communities, parents are also reflecting on the value of encouraging their children to explore technology careers. The success of the marathon lesson shows that with the right encouragement, young people can boldly step into fields that were once thought to be out of reach for many.
From the packed halls of the Minds and Emotions Centre in Abuja to online livestream feeds watched by thousands, the ripple effects of this record-breaking session will continue to be felt. For young Nigerians dreaming of making their mark in technology, Yakubu’s journey is now a powerful reminder that the world is watching and that opportunities are there for those willing to put in the work.
As official recognition from Guinness World Records cements Yakubu’s name in history books, the story of his 60-hour coding lesson will live on as an example of what can be achieved when passion meets preparation and when knowledge is shared with the world.
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