School of Eloquence set to attempt Guinness World Record for longest speaking relay
By Maureen Aguta
The School of Eloquence, Nigeria’s leading institution for public speaking and communication mastery, has secured official approval from Guinness World Records (Ref: 250922121700lsm) to stage an ambitious attempt at the Longest Speech Marathon (Team) under the banner: “20 Days of Eloquence — The World’s Longest Speaking Relay.”
Scheduled to begin on January 12, 2026, at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos, the 20-day speaking relay will feature an uninterrupted 480-hour marathon of speeches delivered by hundreds of Nigerians from diverse backgrounds — including professionals, students, thought leaders, and ordinary citizens. Each participant will speak for an average of 20 minutes in symbolic alignment with the institution’s 20th anniversary.
Founded in 2006 by Ubong Essien, CSP, West Africa’s only Certified Speaking Professional and Dean of the School of Eloquence, the institution has become synonymous with teaching effective communication, confidence, and clarity to Nigerians across sectors.
According to Essien, the record attempt transcends the pursuit of a global title. “For 20 years, the School of Eloquence has taught Nigerians to speak with courage, confidence, and clarity,” he said. “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.”
Themed “Pass on the Mic,” the initiative aims to celebrate Nigeria’s diversity through the shared power of speech, inviting participation from citizens at home and in the diaspora. Organizers say the event will be conducted in strict accordance with Guinness World Records guidelines, supervised by independent witnesses, timekeepers, and stewards to ensure authenticity.
Beyond setting a new world record — surpassing the current benchmark of 127 hours, 31 minutes, and 43 seconds held by Toastmasters District 112 (New Zealand) — the project is envisioned as a national festival of voices. It seeks to inspire civic pride, encourage dialogue, and reinforce Nigeria’s identity as a nation of articulate, creative, and resilient people.
Described as Africa’s most ambitious speech event, the 20 Days of Eloquence also doubles as a legacy initiative to strengthen Nigeria’s communication culture and highlight the School of Eloquence’s role as a continental leader in public speaking and thought leadership.
Sponsorship and partnership opportunities remain open to corporate organizations, public institutions, and individuals eager to contribute to what is poised to become a historic milestone in Africa’s oratory landscape.
Event Details:
- Title: 20 Days of Eloquence – The World’s Longest Speaking Relay
- Type: Guinness World Record Official Attempt (Ref: 250922121700lsm)
- Date: January 12 – February 1, 2026
- Venue: Oriental Hotel, Lagos
- Convener: The School of Eloquence
- Lead: Ubong Essien, CSP – Dean, School of Eloquence and West Africa’s Only Certified Speaking Professional