Federal Government Honors 12 Teachers with ₦350 Million in Landmark Awards at National Summit

ABUJA – In a historic celebration of pedagogical excellence, the Federal Government yesterday awarded a staggering ₦350 million in cash prizes to twelve exceptional teachers from across the nation. The landmark event, held at the National Teachers’ Summit 2026, underscores a renewed national commitment to valuing educators as the cornerstone of societal development.

The summit, themed “Empowering Teachers, Strengthening the System: A National Agenda for Education Transformation and Sustainability,” served as a powerful platform to not only reward excellence but also to chart a new course for the teaching profession in Nigeria.

The awards ceremony formed the glittering centerpiece of the summit. The star honoree, Mr. Solanke Francis Taiwo from Ogun State, was declared the Overall Best Teacher of the Year, walking away with a life-changing prize of ₦50 million. His exceptional dedication and innovative teaching methods set a national benchmark.

The eleven other distinguished awardees, selected through a rigorous and transparent process from nominations across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, each received ₦25 million. The combined cash reward represents one of the most substantial single investments in teacher recognition in the country's recent history.

“Teachers are the quiet architects of great nations,” stated Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, in her keynote address. She emphasized that the empowerment of teachers is central to the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” positioning education as the fundamental engine for national progress.

The recognition for Mr. Solanke Francis Taiwo extended beyond the federal purse. In a move highlighting state-level support, the Ogun State Governor announced an additional reward package for the top teacher, pledging a brand-new car and a two-bedroom apartment.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, reiterated that the selection was purely merit-based. “These educators represent the very best of our profession. This award is a testament to their unwavering commitment and a signal to all teachers that their work is seen, valued, and celebrated at the highest level,” Dr. Alausa remarked.

Crucially, the summit was not solely about monetary rewards. The government simultaneously launched “EduRevamp,” a comprehensive nationwide online platform designed for continuous teacher professional development. This initiative aims to systematically strengthen pedagogical skills and career growth for educators across the country, ensuring that the momentum from the awards translates into long-term systemic improvement.

The award ceremony has ignited a wave of optimism within the education sector, with many heralding it as a pivotal moment that could redefine the status and motivation of teachers nationwide.

· Overall Best Teacher (₦50m): Solanke Francis Taiwo (Ogun State)

· Basic Education Category (₦25m each): Blessing Ikong, Chinwe Ituma, Gombo Lawan, Khadijat Galadima, Okide Ochike

· Secondary Education Category (₦25m each): Johanna Gilando, David Kachollom Joseph, Musa Abubakar Garba, Hope Ifetike, Obafemi Peter Lawal, Bashar Hantsi