Nigerian teacher and education advocate, Mr. Seyi Anifowose, has earned a place in the Guinness World Records for hosting the largest gathering of teachers in history.
The milestone was achieved at the “Let There Be Teachers Conference 2025” held on September 20 at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos. Confirmation of the record came during a Zoom call on September 23, where a Guinness World Records representative, Rishi Nath, commended Anifowose and his team for drawing global attention to the importance of teachers in national development.
The event, powered by 1 Million Teachers, attracted tens of thousands of educators from across Nigeria. Organisers had projected an attendance of 60,000, highlighting the scale of mobilisation and the urgency of calls for better welfare and recognition of teachers.
“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,” Anifowose declared. He added that holding the conference at Tafawa Balewa Square was symbolic, as it was the same venue where Nigeria declared independence in 1960.
Despite the success, he admitted the process was challenging, noting that teachers endured rain, harsh sun, and long verification lines to achieve the feat.
Anifowose expressed gratitude to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for hosting the event, and to his home-state governor, Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, for his support. He also acknowledged teacher unions and education agencies at state and federal levels for their contributions.
Beyond the record, Anifowose revealed that the next phase of his work would focus on policy advocacy. He plans to engage the National Assembly on reforms to improve the education sector and enhance teachers’ welfare.
Nigeria’s education sector continues to struggle with underfunding, inadequate infrastructure, and low teacher morale. According to UNESCO, the country faces one of the world’s most severe teacher shortages, leaving classrooms overcrowded and teachers underpaid.
Stakeholders have consistently called for reforms to strengthen teacher training, improve conditions, and make the profession attractive to younger generations. By securing this global recognition, Anifowose said he hopes to translate symbolic achievement into tangible change for Nigerian teachers.
