Nigeria’s School of Eloquence has etched its name into global history after officially breaking the Guinness World Record for the Longest Speech Marathon by a Team, completing an extraordinary 480-hour non-stop speaking relay in Lagos.

The historic feat, themed “20 Days of Eloquence: Nigeria Speaks to the World,” ran continuously from April 1 to April 21, 2026, and was formally certified during a virtual adjudication event attended by participants, supporters and officials of Guinness World Records.

The new record shatters the previous benchmark of 127 hours and 31 minutes set in April 2018 by Toastmasters District 112.

The atmosphere during the adjudication ceremony was charged with anticipation as Mr Abidemi David Edmond opened proceedings with the Nigerian national anthem, setting a patriotic tone for the announcement.

He praised the commitment and sacrifice demonstrated by the participants throughout the 20-day exercise, expressing confidence that the team had met every requirement for certification.

That optimism was echoed by Mr Ayodele, chairman of the planning committee, who described the achievement as a national victory that reflects the creativity, discipline and intellectual capacity of Nigerians.

For the Founder and Dean of the School of Eloquence, Ubong Essien, the marathon represented far more than a record attempt.

According to him, the initiative was designed to showcase Nigeria’s intellectual strength and communication culture to a global audience.

“It’s to let the world know that Nigerians have ideas. We can articulate, we can present, and we can engage in debates,” Essien said.

He added that while Nigerians are globally celebrated for their cultural exports, including cuisine, the marathon demonstrated that the country also possesses exceptional depth in thought leadership and public speaking.

The defining moment came when Guinness World Records Chief Adjudicator Lena Kuhlman joined the event virtually to deliver the final verdict.

Describing the attempt as “incredible,” Kuhlman commended the consistency, resilience and coordination displayed throughout the exercise. She noted that sustaining a continuous speaking marathon for 20 consecutive days required far more than speakers taking turns at a podium.

“To sustain a continuous speech marathon over a full 20 days requires structure, precision, resilience, coordination and an exceptional level of dedication from everyone involved behind the scenes,” she said.

Kuhlman confirmed that the School of Eloquence had successfully established a new world record with a final time of 480 hours.

As the official Guinness World Records certificate appeared on screen, the announcement triggered jubilant celebrations among participants and supporters gathered for the event.

“You are now officially amazing,” Kuhlman declared while formally welcoming the institution into the Guinness World Records archive.

Beyond the record itself, organisers said the marathon became a transformative platform for personal development and national engagement. Participants who took part in the relay sessions described the experience as rigorous but deeply rewarding, noting that it sharpened their confidence, discipline and communication skills.

Behind the scenes, extensive logistical coordination sustained the marathon around the clock. The School’s Registrar, Mrs Ubong Essien, acknowledged the contributions of volunteers and supporters, particularly Mrs Esther Evodaghe, who provided continuous refreshments and hydration support throughout the exercise.

The achievement also coincides with the School of Eloquence’s 20th anniversary celebration. Established in 2006, the institution has grown into one of Africa’s leading public speaking academies, training professionals, executives and aspiring communicators across multiple sectors.

To commemorate the milestone, Essien announced plans for a special celebration later this month during which speakers and witnesses will receive “Certificates of Historic Participation” in recognition of their role in the record-breaking event.

He further revealed that the “20 Days of Eloquence” marathon would evolve into an annual national convention focused on thematic conversations around health, business, governance, enterprise and wellness.

According to him, the anniversary celebrations and advocacy for eloquence-driven leadership will also extend to the school’s Abuja centre later this year.

Ultimately, Essien said the initiative represents a broader call for a society built on articulate leadership, informed dialogue and constructive engagement.

“A more eloquent society is possible,” he said. “Not only is it possible, but it is also a necessity.”