Mr. Felix Fayomi of Idepe High School, Okitipupa, and Mr. Emmanuel Ozor Charles of Greater Tomorrow International School, Arigidi-Akoko, Ondo State, were among those honoured as the Best Public and Private School Teachers across Nigeria, in recognition of their innovative teaching methods and dedication to student success.
The teachers were honoured at the grand finale of the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration and the President’s Teachers and Schools Excellence Awards, held on Sunday at Eagle Square, Abuja. This year’s theme was “Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession.”
The Federal Government celebrated outstanding teachers and schools that have distinguished themselves in the noble task of nation-building through education.
Mr. Felix Fayomi was awarded Best Public School Teacher, receiving a ₦3.5 million cash prize in recognition of his exceptional teaching methods and commitment to students.
Similarly, Mr. Emmanuel Ozor Charles of Greater Tomorrow International College, Arigidi Akoko , emerged as Best Private School Teacher, also receiving a ₦3.5 million cash prize.
Mr. Solanke Francis Taiwo of Ansar-Udeen Main School, Kemta, Abeokuta, Ogun State, won the Best Teacher (CAR) award for his outstanding dedication to nurturing young minds and promoting academic excellence.
In the Basic School Category, Woliwo Primary School, Onitsha, Anambra State, stood out by clinching the Best School (BUS) award. Meanwhile, Onike Girls’ Junior High School, Lagos, was named Best Junior Secondary School (BUS) for its achievements in academic standards, discipline, and girl-child empowerment.
The award for Best School Leader, along with a ₦3.5 million cash prize, went to Mrs. Odenike Fausat Mobolaji of Elepe Community Junior High School, Ikorodu, Lagos. She was recognised for her exceptional leadership, mentorship, and commitment to school improvement and teacher development.
Additionally, Mrs. Ubani Roseblund Ibiyiye of Federal Government College, Abuloma, received the coveted Best Teacher Overall award, accompanied by a ₦3.5 million prize—representing the pinnacle of excellence in Nigeria’s teaching profession.
The award ceremony was part of activities marking World Teachers’ Day 2025, celebrated annually on October 5 to highlight teacher empowerment, motivation, and their role in shaping the future of education.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering teachers through policies and programmes that promote collaboration, continuous professional development, and national progress.“
It is remarkable that the global community is acknowledging the selfless dedication of teachers who remain the foundation of development in all climes. Rewarding teachers is an investment in quality education, student achievement, and national progress,” he said.
Dr. Alausa emphasised that collaboration among teachers leads to better learning outcomes and greater professional fulfilment.
“When teachers are supported to work together through peer mentoring, joint lesson planning, co-teaching, and digital platforms, learning outcomes improve, and teachers experience professional growth,” he stated.
He added that the Federal Ministry of Education has launched several initiatives to revitalise the teaching profession, including the implementation of the National Teacher Policy, which ensures that teachers are professionally empowered, motivated, and supported through continuous training.
The event also featured the presentation of awards to deserving state governors, trophies for the Best March Past, and the President’s Teachers and Schools Excellence Awards.