Teachers are ‘quiet architects’ of Nigeria’s future – First Lady Tinubu
As Ogun teacher wins ₦50m, flat, car as overall best
First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has described teachers as the “quiet architects of great nations,” urging them to embrace innovation as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to reposition the education sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
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.
Senator Tinubu said meaningful national development could only be achieved when teachers are properly equipped, motivated and supported, noting that quality education remains central to sustainable growth.
“Teachers are the quiet architects of great nations, shaping young minds, instilling values, and nurturing hope,” she said. “As a former classroom teacher, I understand firsthand the demands of teaching and the enduring impact of teachers in shaping societies.”
The First Lady commended the Federal Ministry of Education for launching the Edu Revamp Portal, an initiative 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 improve learning outcomes across the country,” she said.
She reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to investing in teachers’ welfare, professional growth and the skills required to prepare learners for a rapidly changing world, stressing that education remains a core pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“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,” she added.
Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described teachers as “nation builders, character shapers and custodians of our collective future.” He was represented at the summit by Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum.
According to him, no education system can rise above the quality, motivation, professionalism and welfare of its teachers, noting that Nigerian teachers serve more than 70 million learners across urban, rural, conflict, riverine and nomadic communities.
Earlier, Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced cash rewards for outstanding teachers and formally unveiled the Edu Revamp Portal, declaring teachers 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,” he said.
Dr Alausa 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. After a rigorous selection process, 12 finalists emerged, each to receive ₦25 million, while the overall Best Teacher of the Year would receive ₦50 million.
The highlight of the summit was the emergence of Solanke Francis Taiwo from 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.
