Ogun Governor Honors Nigeria's Best Primary School Teacher with Car Presentation
In a significant recognition of educational excellence, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has personally presented a brand-new car to Mr. Solanke Francis Taiwo, who was named the Overall Best Primary School Teacher in Nigeria for 2025. This gesture underscores the state's commitment to celebrating and rewarding outstanding educators who make a profound impact in the classroom.
Ceremony Held in Abeokuta with Education Officials
The presentation ceremony took place at the governor's office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, and was attended by key education stakeholders, including the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbagbu, and the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Oloko. This event highlighted the collaborative efforts between state and national authorities to honor teaching professionals.
National Award Recognizes Dedication and Innovation
Mr. Solanke, a teacher at Ansar-ud-Deen Main School 1, earned this prestigious national accolade through a competitive evaluation process that involved educators from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. His selection was based on exceptional dedication, innovative teaching methods, and measurable improvements in student learning outcomes, reflecting the high standards set by the nationwide program.
Comprehensive Rewards for Outstanding Educators
As part of the award, Mr. Solanke received a comprehensive package that includes N50 million in cash, a fully furnished two-bedroom house, and the brand-new car presented by Governor Abiodun. This initiative, introduced at the Nigerian Teachers' Summit in Abuja on January 28, aims to motivate and honor teachers across the country, with a total of N325 million disbursed to exceptional educators.
Other Awardees and National Recognition
In addition to Mr. Solanke, eleven other teachers were recognized for their excellence, each receiving N25 million. Notable recipients include:
- Mrs. David Kachollom Joseph of GSS Nyango Gyel, Plateau State
- Malam Musa Abubakar Garba of GSS Tudun Wada, Kaduna State
- Ifetike Hope Chekwube of Government Technical College, Onitsha, Anambra State
- Obafemi Peter Lawal of Oriwa Senior Model College, Lagos
- Johanna Gilando and Bashar Hantsi of Argungu Emirate Model Primary School, Kebbi State
Other awardees were Blessing Ikong, Chinwe Ituma, Gombo Lawan, Khadijat Galadima, and Okide Ochike, showcasing the diversity of talent across Nigeria's educational landscape.
Statements from Leaders on Teacher Appreciation
During the summit, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu praised teachers as the "quiet architects of great nations," emphasizing that sustainable national progress begins with quality teaching and effective learning. She reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's commitment to enhancing teacher welfare, professional development, and skills acquisition nationwide.
Governor Abiodun commended Mr. Solanke for his dedication and for representing Ogun State on the national stage, noting that such recognition reinforces the value of the teaching profession and inspires others to strive for excellence. This event aligns with broader efforts to improve education, including recent agreements between the federal government and academic unions to strengthen higher education.
