
ABUJA BARBER SET TO ATTEMPT GUINNESS WORLD RECORD FOR LONGEST HAIRCUT MARATHON
By: Motunrayo Aniwura
Abuja-based barber Joshua Aiyenuro has announced plans to attempt a Guinness World Record for the longest haircut marathon.
Aiyenuro, known for his brand T-Jos Signature, which serves several top Nigerian footballers, said his goal is to take his craft beyond the confines of the barbershop and highlight the global potential of skilled trades.
Speaking to reporters in Abuja on Tuesday, he disclosed that the marathon will run from June 10 to 17, 2025, at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
He said, “I want the world to know that talent in Africa is not limited to the arts or athletics. Our hands, our minds, our drive — they are capable of making history.
“This is more than a haircut; this is a message to every young African that you too can dream and break barriers.
“I want every young barber, tailor, mechanic, and craftsperson in Africa to see this and say, ‘I can be next’. We don’t need to leave our continent to make history. We can do it right here, with what we have, in our own way.”
Also speaking at the briefing, the President of the African Civil Society Forum, Blessing Akinlosotu, called on corporate sponsors, public institutions, religious bodies, and well-meaning individuals to support the initiative.
“This isn’t just about breaking a world record.
“It’s about making a bold statement that Africa’s youth have what it takes to lead the world, not just in politics or sports, but in skills, innovation, and resilience.
“Supporting this project is not a favour to Joshua — it’s an investment in African pride. This is the kind of news story the media must carry on their shoulders. It aligns perfectly with the divine mandate of building character and transforming our nation,” Akinlosotu said.
He added that the barber’s journey would extend beyond the Velodrome, noting that Phase Two of the initiative includes launching pet projects focused on breaking new records in skill acquisition and tackling social vices such as drug abuse, illegal migration, and cybercrime.
“AFRICSOF is collaborating with T-Jos Signature to drive and actualise this continental vision of an African youth believing — and achieving,” he stated.