In a historic move to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector, school owners, education leaders, and stakeholders have ramped up efforts to mobilize 60,000 teachers for the upcoming “Let There Be Teachers” Conference, set to take place on September 20, 2025, at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos.
For years, Nigeria’s education system has struggled with systemic challenges, including underfunding, overcrowded classrooms, and inadequate teacher training. Despite the pivotal role teachers play in national development, they have long faced poor remuneration, low motivation, and limited access to professional growth opportunities.
A statement issued by Mr. Luyi Armstrong, General Secretary of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, revealed that a strategic meeting involving key players, including members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, had been held to finalize preparations for the conference. The event is expected to set a Guinness World Record as the largest teachers’ gathering in Nigeria’s history.
“This conference marks a turning point for Nigerian educators,” Mr. Armstrong said. “We are thrilled to witness this unprecedented gathering where teachers will come together to share their challenges, celebrate their contributions, and strategize for a better future. We encourage all teachers to attend.”
The conference, which aims to shed light on the pressing issues within the teaching profession, is a key initiative of education advocate Oluwaseyi Anifowose. Speaking at the strategy session, Anifowose emphasized the importance of collaboration to transform Nigeria’s education system.
“The growth of our schools is directly tied to the growth of our teachers,” Anifowose stated. “When we empower educators, we secure the future of education in Nigeria.”
Dr. Hakeem Subair, co-founder of 1 Million Teachers (1MT), highlighted the crucial role of teachers in national development. “Teachers shape society and build harmony. It’s time we address their concerns and give them the recognition they deserve,” Dr. Subair said.
The strategy session also featured presentations from prominent education experts such as Ronke Posh Adeniyi, Rizma Butt, Rotimi Eyitayo, Rhoda Odigboh, and Prof. Akin Akinpelu, who provided insights on school innovation, leadership, and sustainability.
Organizers of the “Let There Be Teachers” Conference are optimistic that the event will bring attention to the challenges teachers face, promote solutions to learning poverty, and advocate for the integration of technology in teaching. The conference will also foster collaboration across states and enhance teacher training programs aimed at improving educational outcomes for millions of Nigerian children.
