GWR approves School of Eloquence attempt at longest World’s Speaking Marathon Relay in Lagos
By Uzor Odigbo
The School of Eloquence, Nigeria’s foremost institution for public speaking and communication mastery, has received official approval from Guinness World Records to attempt the record for the Longest Speech Marathon under the global title, 20 Days of Eloquence.
The record attempt, scheduled to commence on January 12, 2026, will see a continuous 20-day, 480-hour marathon of speeches delivered by hundreds of Nigerians from all walks of life leaders, professionals, students, and citizens each taking turns to speak for an average of twenty minutes in symmetry with its 20 years of existence in a live relay of voices.
The initiative marks the 20th anniversary of the School of Eloquence, founded in 2006 by Ubong Essien, CSP, West Africa’s only Certified Speaking Professional, and Dean of the School of Eloquence.
According to Essien, “For 20 years, the School of Eloquence has taught Nigerians to speak with courage, confidence, and clarity.
“Now, as we turn 20, we are giving the nation an opportunity to speak continuously for 20 days. This is not just a record attempt; it’s a national quest for eloquence, unity, and expression.
“For 20 days, Nigeria will speak as one voice passing on the mic from one speaker to the next,” he said.
The event is planned for the Oriental Hotel, Lagos, and will be a Guinness World Record official attempt under the supervision of independent witnesses, timekeepers, and stewards, following all prescribed GWR guidelines.
Themed “Pass on the Mic,” the campaign invites Nigerians from across the country and the diaspora to participate, sponsor, or support what is set to become Africa’s most inspiring speech event, a festival of voices celebrating resilience, intellect, and nationhood through the power of spoken word.
According to the School of Eloquence, the 20 Days of Eloquence is envisioned not just as a record-breaking feat, but as a legacy project to unite Nigerians through speech, reinforce the nation’s communication culture, and further cement the School of Eloquence as the continent’s leading voice in public speaking education and thought leadership.
The current record is held at 127 hours, 31 minutes, and 43 seconds by Toastmasters District 112 (New Zealand).
The School of Eloquence says sponsorship and partnership opportunities are open for corporate organizations, state institutions, and individuals who wish to be part of this historic milestone.
