Teachers’ Conference Shifts Focus to Reform, Targets 200,000 Educators Nationwide

A non-governmental organisation, Let There Be Teachers Foundation, has announced that its 2026 conference will prioritise education reform over record-breaking achievements, signalling a shift toward practical impact in Nigeria’s classrooms.

The Convener, Seyi Anifowose, made this known in Abuja at Let There Be Teachers Conference 2026 Press Conference, which is also to formally  outline its national significance, and highlight the Federal Government’s endorsement as well as commitment to strengthening the teaching profession.

He said the upcoming conference would move beyond the global recognition recorded in 2025 to focus on addressing critical issues affecting teachers and the education system.

According to him, the 2025 edition, held at Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, earned global recognition from Guinness World Records as the largest gathering of teachers.

He however stressed that the foundation is now committed to driving meaningful change.

“This year, we’re moving from record to reform. From success to significance. From applause to accountability,” Anifowose said.

He disclosed that the 2026 conference, scheduled for October in Abuja, would centre on teachers’ welfare, workload, and professional development, while also igniting a nationwide movement expected to mobilise at least 200,000 teachers.

According to him,” The initiative aims to draw participation from 5,000 teachers in each state and 20,000 from the Federal Capital Territory.”

Anifowose also unveiled plans for a “Happy Teacher” application designed to connect educators with corporate organisations, vendors, and service providers offering essential products such as devices, vehicles, and housing.

“We want to support their professional growth and provide financial stability. A struggling teacher cannot thrive in the classroom,” he said.

In addition, he announced a Graduate Teachers Fellowship programme aimed at equipping future educators with the skills needed to excel in the classroom, while also addressing the declining perception of colleges of education.

The convener noted that the initiative has received endorsement from the Federal Ministry of Education, with ongoing engagement with the National Assembly to strengthen policy support.

In her remarks, Deputy Director, Colleges of Education Department, Mrs. Iyabode Alli, emphasised the importance of innovation in improving Nigeria’s education sector.

“Progress in education will depend on how well we support, empower and value our teachers, not just in words but through deliberate policies and programmes,” she said.

Similarly, the National President of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, Yomi Otunbela, represented by Dr Johnson Da-Silva, highlighted the need to prioritise character alongside qualifications in the teaching profession.

“We must focus on raising responsible and dedicated teachers. Character is as important as qualification,” he said.

Earlier, the Executive Director of Let There Be Teachers, Sola Adeola Amudipe, described the 2026 conference as the beginning of a transformative national movement aimed at repositioning teachers at the centre of Nigeria’s development.

Speaking at the event, she said the conference, themed “From Record to Reform: A National HOPE Attempt for Teachers,” is designed to amplify teachers’ voices and drive systemic change.

“This is more than an event it is a national statement that teachers matter, their voices count, and the future of our nation rests firmly in their hands,” she said.

She added that the initiative seeks to elevate the dignity, visibility, and value of teachers, noting that no education system can rise above the quality of its educators.

The conference is expected to culminate in a national professional pledge by teachers, aimed at promoting accountability, growth, and improved learning outcomes across the country.