Educationist Sets Guinness World Record with Largest Gathering of Teachers
Educationist Sets Guinness World Record with Largest Gathering of Teachers
Nigerian teacher and education advocate, Mr. Seyi Anifowose, has secured a place in the Guinness World Records for hosting the largest gathering of teachers in history. The milestone was achieved during the “Let There Be Teachers Conference 2025” held on September 20 at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
In a statement on Friday, 1 Million Teachers revealed that the confirmation came through a Zoom call on Wednesday, September 23, with Rishi Nath, a representative of Guinness World Records, making the announcement.
Nath praised Anifowose and his team for spotlighting an issue he said “deserves to be at the forefront of national policy and dialogue.”
The record-breaking event, organised in partnership with 1 Million Teachers, brought together an unprecedented number of educators from across Nigeria.
Organisers had projected attendance of 60,000 teachers, underscoring both the scale of the mobilisation and the urgency of the message: that Nigerian teachers deserve greater recognition, welfare, and policy support.
“This is more than a number. It is proof that teachers matter. It is a victory for education, and it is a victory for Nigeria,” said Anifowose.
He explained that the choice of Tafawa Balewa Square carried symbolic weight. He said, “It was the same ground where Nigeria declared independence in 1960, and its use for the conference marks another proud national moment—this time celebrating those who build nations in classrooms.”
Anifowose admitted that achieving the milestone was not without challenges.
“This achievement goes beyond setting a record; it is a testament to resilience,” Anifowose remarked. “Teachers endured the rain, the heat, and long verification queues, yet they remained steadfast in their determination to make this happen.”
He extended appreciation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State for hosting the conference and to his home-state governor, Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, for his encouragement. He also acknowledged the support of teachers’ unions and education agencies at both state and federal levels, whose contributions were vital to the success of the event.
Anifowose stressed that the focus now shifts from celebration to policy advocacy. He announced plans to engage the National Assembly on reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s education system and enhancing teachers’ welfare.
Nigeria’s education sector has long battled challenges such as chronic underfunding, poor infrastructure, and declining teacher morale. According to UNESCO, the country faces one of the world’s most severe teacher shortages, with overcrowded classrooms and underpaid educators.
Stakeholders have consistently urged reforms to revitalise the education sector, enhance teacher training, and make the profession more appealing to younger generations. With this world record, Anifowose aims to turn symbolic recognition into meaningful action that will bring lasting improvements for teachers across Nigeria.
