A young Nigerian mental health advocate and community leader, Ladejobi Taiye Adebola, has declared her intention to break the Guinness World Record for the farthest distance walked in 24 hours by a female.
The record attempt, themed “A Walk to Break History and Stigma,” is scheduled to take place at the Adamasingba Stadium, Ibadan, Oyo State, from May 31 to June 1, 2025.
Adebola aims to walk a staggering 211.25 kilometres within 24 hours a challenge that mirrors the current record set by French national, Annie, in 1986
Speaking with journalists in Ibadan on Wednesday, the 20-year-old advocate said the walk is not just a personal goal, but a platform to raise awareness on mental health, which she described as one of the most overlooked issues in society.
“This walk is my way of starting conversations around mental wellness,I have battled anxiety and understand what it feels like to suffer in silence. But with this walk, I want people to see that strength and healing can be found when we take deliberate steps – both physically and mentally.”she said
Ladejobi Adebola, who is the President-Elect of the Rotaract Club of Moor Plantation, noted that over 970 million people globally are living with mental health disorders, with depression and anxiety being the most common.
She also expressed concern over the increasing mental health issues among Nigerian youths, particularly teenagers.
“I may be the one walking, but I’m walking for everyone going through mental battles silently.
“I walk for the teenager feeling hopeless, the adult trying to stay strong, and the child who does not yet understand what they feel. This walk is for all of us.”she added.
She explained that the walk is also meant to rekindle hope and promote resilience in the face of life’s many challenges.
Born on June 18, 2004, in Abuja, Ladejobi hails from Ido-Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State. She is the first daughter of His Royal Majesty, Oba Adebayo Ladejobi, and Her Royal Majesty, Olori Omolara Ladejobi. A former beauty queen, public speaker, and volunteer, she has led several community projects including sanitation and health advocacy campaigns.
The record attempt has received endorsements from the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, the Ministry of Information and Orientation, and other relevant stakeholders.
