President Bola Tinubu and the governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu have congratulated Nigerian medical doctor and visual and hyper-realism artist, Fola David, for beating the existing Guinness World Record (GWR) for the world’s largest drawing by an individual.
“Congratulations to Dr Fola David for completing his attempt at making the world’s largest hand drawing by an individual. Unity in diversity,” Tinubu said in a post on his instagram.
Sanwo-Olu also posted on his X handle: “From the challenging days of the pandemic when he was a #COVID19Hero at our Onikan Isolation Centre to breaking world records at our Onikan Stadium (Mobolaji Johnson Arena), Dr Fola David has been a beacon of excellence and service.
“We are happy to have supported this record-breaking feat to showcase the extraordinary talents within our state.
“Your dedication and creativity inspire us all. Continue to dream big and do audacious things, Dr Fola David.”
David’s work entitled ‘Unity in Diversity’ features a map of Nigeria highlighting the country’s diverse tribes through their unique attire, languages, art, and essence.
According to the GWR, the massive artwork, spanning 850 square metres, surpassed the previous record of 629.98 square meters held by an Indian, Mr Ravi Soni.
GWR said Soni set the record on November 30, 2021 at Maharana Bhupal Stadium, India.
According to the report, Soni’s record was the 12th successful attempt.
David commenced his record-breaking attempt on July 16 and completed it on 21 July.
He also expanded his artwork to a staggering 1,000 square metres, further solidifying his position in the record books.
The drawing, “Unity in Diversity”, showcases the diverse ethnic groups of Nigeria through their unique attire, languages, culture, and artistic expressions.
In an Instagram video, he said, “Hi guys, I am so happy to say that we have broken the current record, and all we have to do now is set a new one.”
During his attempt, celebrities and dignitaries visited him at the Onikan Stadium venue in Lagos to offer their support and witness his artistic feat firsthand.
Among them is the renowned Nigerian chef and GWR holder, Hilda Baci, who reportedly brought her well wishes, food, and supplies to fuel David’s artistic marathon.
Adding to the encouragement, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in 2023, Mr Peter Obi also visited the stadium, taking time to commend Dr David’s efforts personally.
“His work has been widely recognised, and he continues to push boundaries, inspiring others with his creativity and perseverance,” Obi noted.
