A University of Lagos (UNILAG) student, Ololade Ayelabola, has set a new Guinness World Record after completing a 130.62 km catwalk, surpassing the previous record for the longest distance walked by a model.
Ayelabola, a 500-level Computer Science student and model, embarked on her attempt on October 1st at UNILAG’s indoor sports center, initially aiming for 120 km.
After surpassing that goal, she continued for an additional 10 km, completing a total of 2,058 laps within the venue.
Her attempt was driven by personal experiences in the fashion industry.
Ayelabola had faced rejection from two major fashion events due to her height, motivating her to challenge the industry’s rigid standards and promote inclusivity.
“I am not walking for myself alone,” Ayelabola said. “I am walking for the many models who have been limited by stereotypes and standards set by rigid systems. I also want to showcase the creativity of the Nigerian fashion industry.”
Throughout the event, Ayelabola modeled outfits designed by Nigerian fashion designers, including a collection from the UNILAG Theatre Arts Department.
She was also supported by 34 other models who joined her on the runway.
Her achievement breaks the previous record held for 41 years by Roberta Brown and Lorraine McCourt, who walked 114.4 km (71.1 miles) in Dublin, Ireland, from September 19 to 21, 1983.
Ayelabola’s accomplishment is currently under verification by the Guinness World Records.
Ayelabola hopes her record-setting feat will not only inspire change in the fashion industry but also spotlight the Nigerian fashion scene and encourage tourism.
