Ayelabola Ololade, an undergraduate from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), has achieved an extraordinary milestone by completing a 130.62km catwalk at the university’s indoor sports centre. Her attempt, aimed at breaking the 41-year-old Guinness World Record for the longest distance walked on a catwalk by a model, which was set by Irish models Roberta Brown and Lorraine McCourt on 21st September 1983.
Between 1st and 5th October 2024, the Computer Science student completed 2,058 laps, covering a total distance of over 130km, surpassing the previous record of 114.4km.
In an Instagram post following her achievement, Ayelabola expressed gratitude to her parents and supporters, reflecting on the challenges she faced during the attempt. “I did it, everyone, my record is set. There were difficulties, but I stood through it; there were pains, but I refused to cower,” she wrote.
Ayelabola, a freelance model and voice-over artist, is no stranger to the spotlight, having previously held titles such as the 2021 Most Beautiful Campus Queen, Face of Akoka, and Unique Queen. Her latest feat aims to highlight the creativity of the Nigerian fashion industry and challenge the stereotypes and rigid standards faced by models.
“I’m not walking for myself alone. I am walking for many models who have been limited by stereotypes and standards set by rigid systems. I am also walking to showcase the creativity of the Nigerian fashion industry,” she shared.
The Guinness World Records has yet to officially confirm her achievement. If verified, Ayelabola’s accomplishment will mark a significant moment for both Nigerian fashion and modelling.
Her record attempt builds on the legacy of Brown and McCourt, who walked 114.4 km (71.1 miles) in Dublin, Ireland, in 1983, and demonstrates the determination and passion behind her extraordinary effort.
