In a spectacular celebration of educational excellence, Serah Yusuf of Wisdom International School of Excellence in Abuja has been crowned the 2025 Maltina Teacher of the Year champion, walking away with life-changing rewards for her dedication to the teaching profession.
Grand Prize and National Recognition
Serah Yusuf, who teaches at Wisdom International School of Excellence (WISE) in Tudun Wada, Lugbe, Abuja, emerged as the overall winner during the grand finale held on November 27, 2025. Her outstanding achievement earned her a comprehensive prize package that includes a N10 million cash reward, an all-expense-paid overseas capacity development training program, and a N30 million school infrastructure project to be constructed in her honor by the Nigerian Breweries–Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund.
The competition also celebrated other exceptional educators across Nigeria. Adeola Akinsulure from Omole Senior Grammar School in Ikeja, Lagos State, secured the first runner-up position with a N5 million prize, while Chibuzor Amarikwa from Deeper Life High School in Kwana-Waya Village, Yola, Adamawa State, claimed the second runner-up spot with N3 million.
In a remarkable show of appreciation for teaching excellence nationwide, 24 additional teachers who emerged as State Champions each received one million naira for their exceptional performance and commitment to the education sector.
Government and Corporate Support for Education
The event attracted significant government representation, with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commending the initiative for elevating the teaching profession and reinforcing its value to Nigerian society. Represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperative, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the governor expressed deep appreciation to the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund for its enduring commitment to celebrating teachers and investing in the future of Nigerian children.
The Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, described the competition as a powerful example of private sector and government collaboration in recognizing those who dedicate their lives to nurturing the next generation. "Today is a powerful reminder that teachers are the true architects of national transformation," Professor Ahmad stated, emphasizing how educators shape minds, nurture values, and build foundations for future progress.
Growing Impact and Unprecedented Participation
Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Thibaut Boidin, emphasized that the competition was designed not only to celebrate winners but to honor the profession that shapes all other professions. He highlighted the initiative's expanding impact, noting improvements in school facilities, enhanced learning tools, and increased professional recognition for teachers across Nigeria.
Corporate Affairs Director Uzodinma Odenigbo revealed that this year's competition recorded the highest number of entries in its 11-year history, attributing this milestone to the growing trust teachers nationwide place in the program. He also commended the judges for their integrity and professionalism in evaluating the numerous submissions.
In her emotional acceptance speech, winner Serah Yusuf expressed gratitude to the Education Trust Fund for recognizing the invaluable role of teachers in society. She described her victory as a powerful motivation to expand her work, particularly in slum communities where she has been actively involved. "Initially, I was shocked because I never thought my effort would be worthy of this great award," Yusuf shared. "With this exciting news, I am motivated to do more and expand the activities I have done so far in slum communities."
The triumphant educator dedicated her award to children living in slum communities, reaffirming her commitment to making quality education accessible to all Nigerian children regardless of their socioeconomic background.
