Raymond Tersoo Ortega, a 38-year-old software engineer from Benue State, has set his mind on a new task of making history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest coding marathon.
Ortega said the move was also aimed at promoting technology in Nigeria and Africa as whole.
Ortega, who has worked in countries including the US, Germany and the Netherlands, is hoping to teach coding for 96 hours nonstop, surpassing the current record of 48 hours and 15 minutes.
He said his goal goes beyond just setting a world record, as he is passionate about demonstrating the transformative power of technology, particularly in Africa.
“Over the past 15 years, I’ve seen how technology has changed lives, especially for many Nigerians I’ve worked with. Some of the people I managed didn’t even have a secondary school cert, but through coding, they could secure jobs abroad.”
- FCT pupils remain at home as teachers’ strike lingers
- FG targets more revenue from taxes as Tinubu sends 4 bills to N/Assembly
Ortega’s project aims to inspire Nigerian youth by showing how technology can open doors to global opportunities.
During the four-day event, Ortega will also work on a social impact project linked to an NGO, “The Big Hands”. This initiative will showcase how technology can be used as a force for good, encouraging people with skills and resources to contribute to building a better Nigeria and Africa.
Supported by organizations including the Media Trust Group and V Duplex, Ortega explained that the focus is on service, not just monetary donations.
He also called on cooperate organisations and individuals to give back by offering skills and services.
“The transformation comes when all of us, as Nigerians, bring our best foot forward,” he said, urging youths to leverage knowledge and technology for self-improvement and national development.
Ortega, who works with a Netherlands-based payment gateway company, Molly, said his employers have supported his initiative by giving him time off to volunteer.
He said the Guinness World Record is fully aware of his attempt, and believes this effort will inspire others to push boundaries and make a difference in Nigeria’s technology landscape.
Daily Trust learnt that the current holder of the Code-a-ton with the Guinness World Record had 48 hours of coding time.
Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.
