Nigerian educator and advocate, Seyi Anifowose, has entered the Guinness World Records for convening the world’s largest gathering of teachers at the “Let There Be Teachers Conference 2025” held on September 20 at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
The confirmation came on Wednesday, September 23, during a Zoom call with Rishi Nath, a Guinness World Records representative, who praised Anifowose and his team for drawing global attention to education.
“This is an issue that should be on the front burner of policy and dialogue nationally,” Nath said.
The record-breaking event, powered by 1 Million Teachers, brought together tens of thousands of educators from across Nigeria. Organisers had projected about 60,000 participants, highlighting both the scale of mobilisation and the urgency of calls for greater 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 said.
He added that Tafawa Balewa Square was chosen for its symbolism, noting that Nigeria declared independence on the same grounds in 1960. “This marks another proud national moment—this time celebrating those who build nations in classrooms,” he said.
Anifowose acknowledged the challenges, recalling how teachers “stood in the rain, braved the sun, and endured long verification lines” to ensure the milestone was achieved.
He expressed gratitude to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his home-state governor Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, as well as teacher unions and education agencies for their support.
Looking ahead, Anifowose said the next phase would focus on policy advocacy, with plans to engage the National Assembly on reforms to improve Nigeria’s education system and enhance teachers’ welfare.
Nigeria continues to face a severe teacher shortage, with overcrowded classrooms and low morale among educators, according to UNESCO. Stakeholders have repeatedly called for reforms to strengthen training, improve infrastructure, and make the profession more attractive.
By securing the Guinness record, Anifowose said he hopes to turn symbolic recognition into tangible change for teachers nationwide.