Ekiti-born Teacher, Anifowose, Sets Guinness World Record for Largest Gathering of Educators.
By Olamide Akinwumi
An Ekiti-born teacher and education advocate, Mr. Seyi Anifowose, has entered the Guinness World Records for organizing the largest gathering of teachers globally.
The historic event, tagged “Let There Be Teachers Conference 2025”, was held on September 20 at the iconic Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, drawing an estimated 60,000 teachers from across Nigeria and beyond.
The record-breaking feat was officially confirmed by Rishi Nath, a representative of Guinness World Records, during a Zoom call on September 23.
Anifowose, who is affiliated with the education-focused group 1 Million Teachers, described the achievement as a victory for education in Nigeria. “This is proof that teachers matter. It is a victory for education and Nigeria,” he said.
The conference, which aimed to amplify the call for improved teacher welfare, recognition, and education policy reforms, was not without its challenges. Attendees endured adverse weather conditions and lengthy wait times, but their dedication to the cause stood firm.
The significance of the venue, Tafawa Balewa Square—where Nigeria’s independence was declared in 1960—was not lost on participants, symbolizing a renewed call for national attention to the plight of educators.
Anifowose extended appreciation to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his home state governor, Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, for their moral and logistical support. He also acknowledged the contributions of various teacher unions and education agencies.
Looking ahead, the teacher-turned-advocate said he would be pushing for legislative reforms at the National Assembly to tackle longstanding challenges in the education sector, including underfunding and teacher shortages.
He noted that the global recognition should serve as a springboard for meaningful policy change and improved working conditions for Nigerian teacher.
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