Serah Yusuf of Wisdom International School of Excellence, Abuja, has been crowned the 2025 Maltina Teacher of the Year, earning national recognition for her exceptional dedication to shaping young minds.
Yusuf joins the growing list of educators celebrated under the initiative powered by the Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund of Nigerian Breweries Plc.
At the event held at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Friday night, Yusuf received a N10 million, reward, an international capacity development training opportunity, and a N30 million school infrastructure project for her institution. The enhancements are expected to significantly bolster learning conditions for students at her school.
Adeola Olufunke Akinsulire of Omole Senior Grammar School, Lagos, emerged as the first runner-up, receiving N5 million following an upward review of the prize. Chibuzor Amarikwa of Deeper Life High School, Adamawa State, clinched the second runner-up spot with a N3 million reward.
One of the ceremony’s emotional highlights was a keynote speech by an 11-year-old Ayomide Abusse from Makoko, who narrated how a teacher’s encouragement inspired him to “light up the room,” reinforcing the profound impact of quality teaching.
In her remarks, Yusuf unveiled her plans to establish a digital laboratory for her students and launch a talent show to celebrate exceptional learners.
Speaking at the event, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, applauded the unique role of teachers moulding children and society.
He pledged continued support for the annual event, just as he commended Nigerian Breweries for sustaining the annual award over the last 11 years.
Suwaiba Sa’idu Ahmad, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Education, also speaking, said the President Bola Tinubu-led administration places priority on education and teachers’ welfare. She lauded Nigerian Breweries for the initiative, which she said was beyond mere corporate social responsibility.
Thibaut François Baptiste Boidin, managing director/CEO, Nigerian Breweries, in his address, said the award and recognition was the company’s was way of telling teachers “we see you, we value you; please don’t stop shining the light”.
Also rewarded at the event were state champions who received N1 million each.
The Maltina Teacher of the Year Award highlights the indispensable role of teachers and the transformative potential of investing in education.
