Teachers Are ‘Quiet Architects’ of Nigeria’s Future – First Lady Oluremi Tinubu

Teachers Are ‘Quiet Architects’ of Nigeria’s Future – First Lady Oluremi Tinubu

....As Ogun teacher wins ₦50m, flat, car at National Teachers’ Summit 2026

First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has described Nigerian teachers as the “quiet architects of great nations,” stressing that sustainable national development can only be achieved through a well-equipped, motivated, and supported teaching workforce.

She made the remarks while 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.

Drawing from her background as a former classroom teacher and educationist, the First Lady underscored the critical role teachers play in shaping young minds and building society.

“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 of teachers in shaping societies,” she said.

Senator Tinubu charged teachers across the country to embrace innovation and uphold integrity, assuring them of the Federal Government’s commitment to education under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

She commended the Federal Ministry of Education on the launch of the Edu Revamp Portal, a new platform designed to promote continuous professional development for teachers nationwide.

“I congratulate the Federal Ministry of Education on the launch of the Edu Revamp Portal. This initiative will ensure continuous professional development for our teachers and no doubt improve learning outcomes across the country,” she said.

She added that education remains a central pillar of national development, with sustained investment in teachers’ welfare, professional growth, and modern skills required to prepare learners for a rapidly changing world.

“To my fellow teachers, I thank you for your hard work, commitment, and dedication. I charge you to continue to pursue excellence, embrace innovation, and uphold integrity as you shape the next generation of leaders,” the First Lady said.

Also speaking at the summit, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described teachers as “nation builders, character shapers, and custodians of our collective future.”

Represented by Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, AbdulRazaq noted that no education system can rise above the quality, motivation, professionalism, and welfare of its teachers.

Highlighting the reach of Nigerian teachers across urban centres, rural communities, conflict zones, riverine and nomadic areas, he said empowering teachers is a “strategic imperative for national development, social stability, and economic growth.”

Earlier, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced significant cash rewards for outstanding educators and formally unveiled the Edu Revamp Portal at the summit.

Declaring teachers as the “foundation of national development,” the minister said: “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.”

He explained that the awards followed a merit-based process, with nominees drawn from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory at both basic and senior secondary levels. From these, 12 finalists—six each from basic and senior secondary education—were selected.

“These educators represent the very best of the profession: professionalism, integrity, innovation, and unwavering commitment to learners,” Alausa said, noting that each finalist would receive ₦25 million, while the overall Best Teacher of the Year would receive ₦50 million.

The highlight of the summit was the emergence of Mr. Solanke Francis Taiwo from Ogun State as Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher at the National Teachers’ Summit 2026.

He won a ₦50 million cash prize, a two-bedroom flat promised by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun— to be built in any area of his choice within the state— and a car donated by Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum.

The summit reinforced renewed calls for greater recognition, improved welfare, and sustained professional development for teachers as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s educational and national transformation.