Esomnofu Ifechukwu Crowned 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year in Lagos
Crown Grace School Educator Receives N10 Million Prize Amidst Celebration of Teaching Excellence
On October 11, 2024, Esomnofu Ifechukwu of Crown Grace School in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, was announced as the winner of the prestigious 10th edition of the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition during a grand finale held in Lagos. Ifechukwu was awarded a cash prize of N10,000,000 (ten million naira) for his exceptional contributions to education.
Exciting Rewards and Recognition for Outstanding Educators
In addition to the cash prize, Ifechukwu will also benefit from an all-expense-paid capacity development training abroad and receive N30 million worth of infrastructure improvements for his school. The first runner-up, Kehinde Olukayode from Molusi College in Ogun State, secured a cash prize of N3,000,000 (three million naira), while Aniefiok Udoh from Community Secondary Commercial School in Akwa Ibom State took home N2,000,000 (two million naira) as the second runner-up. Furthermore, 34 state champions were each awarded N1,000,000 (one million naira) for their achievements.
Government Support and Acknowledgment of Teachers
During the ceremony, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund for their unwavering commitment to improving education through the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition. He praised teachers for their vital roles in shaping the future, despite the challenges they face.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the impact of the initiative, noting that it has spotlighted the immense contributions of teachers and supported the teaching profession across Nigeria. He also mentioned that the state recently received a digital language laboratory donated by Nigerian Breweries in honor of the 2023 Maltina Teacher of the Year, Adeola Adefemi, which aims to enhance students’ learning environments.
Commitment to Educational Excellence
The Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, represented by Adedotun Abdul, Director of Yaba College of Technology, commended the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition for celebrating outstanding educators and investing in educational resources. He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to restoring the dignity of the teaching profession through the development of a National Teaching Policy focused on career paths and remuneration.
The Importance of Recognizing Teachers
In his keynote address, Hans Essaadi, Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, emphasized the significance of the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition in recognizing and honoring teachers for their dedication. He noted that this year’s event was particularly special, marking the tenth anniversary of the competition, and highlighted the critical role teachers play in shaping society.
Sade Morgan, Corporate Affairs Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, reported a record number of valid entries, with 1,300 out of 1,477 submissions, showcasing the dedication of Nigerian teachers. She expressed appreciation for the support from various stakeholders, including professional organizations and sponsors, that helped make this edition memorable.
A Celebrated Journey of Excellence in Education
Prof. Pat Utomi, Chairman of the Panel of Judges, noted that this year’s competition was the most competitive since its inception, reflecting the high standards of education in Nigeria.
In his acceptance speech, the 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year, Esomnofu Ifechukwu, expressed his gratitude to the NB-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund for recognizing teachers and enabling them to showcase their contributions. He shared that winning the competition was a long-held dream, having applied since 2020.
Since its launch in 2015, the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition has celebrated ten grand winners, highlighting the ongoing commitment to recognizing excellence in teaching across Nigeria.
About Maltina Teacher of the Year
Launched in 2015 by the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition aims to identify, honor, and reward outstanding teachers in Nigeria, contributing to the improvement of education nationwide.
