Breaking: Nigerian Doctor Sets Guinness World Record With Largest Individual Drawing

Nigerian doctor and artist, Fola David-Tolaram has made history by creating the world’s largest individual drawing, a record-breaking feat that Guinness World Records (GWR) confirmed on Thursday.

David-Tolaram’s impressive artwork spans 1,004.7 m² (10,814.5 ft²)—roughly the size of 3.8 tennis courts—and was created on the pitch at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos as a tribute to Nigeria’s vibrant cultural diversity.

The 31-year-old artist described his work, titled ‘The Unity of Diversity’, as a map of Nigeria that highlights the nation’s rich traditions and unique cultural elements.

“Nigeria is a multi-cultural nation. I wanted to create something that speaks to that and give people an avenue to celebrate their cultures,” he explained.

The drawing, which reflects Nigeria’s array of food, clothing, festivals, and music, was inspired by David-Tolaram’s journey across Nigeria, where he immersed himself in the country’s different cultural experiences.

“It was this experience that I brought to the stadium to create this drawing,” he said.

The project took six days to complete on a 1,360 m² canvas, using waterproof markers, with an additional two days dedicated to setting up the extensive canvas space.

Initially planning to draw from the center outwards in a circular motion, David-Tolaram adapted his technique as he progressed, maneuvering between sections as the artwork evolved.

Reflecting on the challenge, David-Tolaram admitted to initial doubts.

“I remember standing right in the centre of this canvas, about to start, and feeling a lot of apprehension and fear. For five minutes I stood there making sure I conditioned myself for the beginning of such a challenge,” he recalled.

However, as soon as he made the first stroke, his fears dissipated. “The moment my marker touched the canvas, there was no going back. All the fear had gone away,” he said.

Throughout the project, crowds gathered in the 5,000-seat stadium to support him, creating what he described as an “electrifying atmosphere.”

Now a Guinness World Record holder, David-Tolaram expressed pride in his accomplishment. “Holding a Guinness World Records title is absolutely unbelievable. I grew up reading about world records and never thought that I would be a record title holder. I feel very honoured, distinguished, and Officially Amazing,” he said.