First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has described Nigerian teachers as the “quiet architects of great nations,” urging them to embrace innovation as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to revamp the education sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Delivering the keynote address at the National Teachers’ Summit 2026, themed “Empowering Teachers; Strengthening the Education System,” held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, the First Lady emphasised that meaningful educational and national progress can only be achieved when teachers are adequately equipped, motivated, and supported.
Drawing from her experience as a former classroom teacher and educationist, Senator Tinubu highlighted the pivotal role teachers play in shaping societies.
“Teachers are the quiet architects of great nations, shaping young minds, instilling values, and nurturing hope. I understand firsthand the demands of teaching and the enduring impact teachers have on nation-building.”
She commended the Federal Ministry of Education on the launch of the Edu Revamp Portal, an initiative designed to promote continuous professional development for teachers.
“I congratulate the Federal Ministry of Education on the launch of the Edu Revamp Portal, an initiative that will ensure continuous professional development for our teachers. The framework will no doubt improve learning outcomes across the country. Well done.”
According to the First Lady, education remains a core pillar of national development under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
“The administration is committed to sustained investment in teachers’ welfare, professional development, and the skills needed to prepare learners for a rapidly changing world. Sustainable development begins with quality teaching and learning.”
She further charged teachers across the country to remain committed to excellence, innovation, and integrity.
“To my fellow teachers, I thank you for your hard work, commitment, and dedication. Continue to pursue excellence, embrace innovation, and uphold integrity as you shape the next generation of leaders.”
Also speaking, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described teachers as “nation builders, character shapers, and custodians of our collective future.”
Represented by Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, he noted that no education system can rise above the quality, motivation, professionalism, and welfare of its teachers. He stressed that teachers serve over 70 million learners across urban, rural, conflict-prone, riverine, and nomadic communities, describing teacher empowerment as a strategic imperative for national development, social stability, and economic growth.
Earlier, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced cash rewards for outstanding educators and officially unveiled the Edu Revamp Portal at the summit, describing teachers as the foundation of national development.
“No nation can rise above the quality of its teachers. No reform, no matter how well designed, can succeed unless teachers are empowered, motivated, supported, and respected. When teachers thrive, learners succeed, systems grow stronger, and nations move forward.”
The minister disclosed that the merit-based awards process involved nominations from each of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory at both basic and senior secondary levels. Following a rigorous selection process, 12 finalists emerged—six from basic education and six from senior secondary education.
Each finalist will receive ₦25 million, while the Overall Best Teacher of the Year will receive ₦50 million.
“This is more than a reward; it is a national signal that teaching is a noble, respected, and valued profession in Nigeria,” the minister said.
The summit’s highlight was the emergence of Solanke Francis Taiwo of Ogun State as Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher at the National Teachers’ Summit 2026. He received ₦50 million, a two-bedroom flat promised by Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun—to be built in any location of his choice within the state—and a car pledged by Borno State Governor Prof. Babagana Zulum.
