Meet Nigerian lawyer who set world record for fastest will drafting
Nigerian lawyer Michael Nnamdi Ezimoha breaks will-writing world record
Nigerian-born legal practitioner, Michael Nnamdi Ezimoha, has made global headlines after setting a new world record for the fastest time to draft a legally valid will, completing the task in just 10 minutes and 47 seconds.
The record, officially certified by the World Record Committee (WRC) in October 2024, followed a thorough review process by a panel of international legal experts who confirmed that the will met all statutory legal requirements.
Ezimoha’s accomplishment makes him the first Nigerian to hold a legal-themed world record, marking a historic moment for the legal community at home and in the diaspora.
Speaking on the motivation behind the record attempt, Ezimoha said the goal was not simplyabout speed but about raising awareness on the importance of estate planning.
“This was never just about the record. It was a deliberate effort to draw attention to the importance of writing Wills,” he said. “Many Nigerians pass away without a Will, and their families are left to suffer. I wanted to use this moment to encourage people to take action early and secure their legacy.”
Ezimoha also highlighted that the challenge required a high level of precision under pressure, as the document had to be accurate, legally binding, and technically sound.
A graduate of law in Nigeria and now a UK-based legal professional, Ezimoha has spent over a decade focusing on estate law, Wills, and succession planning, serving both Nigerians abroad and clients at home. He emphasized that Wills are not only for the wealthy or elderly but for anyone with dependents, property, or future intentions.
“A Will is not just legal paperwork; it is a message of love, peace, and foresight. It ensures your wishes are respected and your family protected,” he added.
Ezimoha acknowledged the support of his law firm, Thomas Boyd Whyte Solicitors, in helping him prepare for and successfully execute the record-setting attempt. According to him, the firm provided professional and logistical support throughout the process, making the achievement possible.
“I am especially grateful to Thomas Boyd Whyte Solicitors for their unwavering support. Their belief in this vision made all the difference,” he said.
With this accomplishment, Ezimoha joins a growing list of Nigerians earning global recognition, including chef Hilda Baci for the longest cooking marathon, Tunde Onakoya for the longest chess game, and Gbenga Ezekiel for rope skipping. His win is particularly notable as the first recorded in the legal innovation space.
Looking ahead, Ezimoha is preparing to launch a nationwide awareness campaign to promote estate planning and educate the public on the importance of Wills. The initiative will include workshops, digital resources, and partnerships with community lawyers across Nigeria.
“This is just the beginning. I want to use this platform to demystify legal processes and make estate planning accessible to every Nigerian.