Nigerian teacher and education advocate, Mr. Seyi Anifowose, has officially entered the Guinness World Records after convening the largest gathering of teachers in history at the “Let There Be Teachers Conference 2025” held on September 20 at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
The confirmation came via a Zoom call on Wednesday, September 23, from Rishi Nath, a Guinness World Records representative, who commended Anifowose and his team for drawing global attention to education issues that “should be on the front burner of policy and dialogue nationally.”
Powered by 1 Million Teachers, the landmark event drew tens of thousands of educators nationwide. Organisers had projected an attendance of 60,000 teachers, underscoring the scale of the mobilisation and the urgent call for greater recognition, welfare, and policy support for Nigerian 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, noting the symbolic choice of Tafawa Balewa Square, where Nigeria declared independence in 1960.
He acknowledged the challenges faced during the event, praising the resilience of participants who endured rain, heat, and long verification lines to achieve the record. He also thanked Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ekiti State Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, teacher unions, and education agencies for their support.
Looking ahead, Anifowose revealed that the next phase would focus on policy advocacy, with plans to engage the National Assembly on reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s education system and improve teacher welfare.
Nigeria’s education sector has long struggled with underfunding, poor infrastructure, and a severe teacher shortage. UNESCO reports that many classrooms remain overcrowded, with teachers underpaid and morale low.
By securing this world record, Anifowose hopes to transform symbolic recognition into tangible change for educators across the country.
