Nigerian Breweries and the Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund have launched the 12th Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition. Applications opened Thursday, June 3, and close Friday, August 8, 2026.
This nationwide search seeks to honour secondary school teachers whose work shapes Nigeria's future. It celebrates excellence, innovation, and dedication in the classroom.
Uaboi Agbebaku, secretary of the Trust Fund, spoke at the Lagos ceremony. He called the competition a vital platform for recognising transformative educators.
According to him, several organisations want to partner with the initiative this year. The Trust Fund is open to groups aligned with its vision.
Uzodinma Odenigbo, the public relations officer, outlined the prizes at the event. Winners will earn substantial rewards and recognition.
The grand prize winner gets N10 million in cash. They'll also receive a brand new Honda HR-V and a year's Maltina supply.
Overseas capacity training comes as part of the package too. Additionally, the winner's school receives an infrastructure project worth N30 million.
First runners-up take home N5 million and a trophy. Second runners-up receive N3 million and a trophy each.
State champions get N1 million and recognition plaques. All finalists earn acknowledgement for their contributions.
Odenigbo stressed the company's commitment to education. He said NB views teacher investment as investment in Nigeria itself.
"Teaching excellence inspires our future leaders," he told the gathering. "This competition celebrates educators who do that daily."
Honda Automobile West Africa, Union Bank, and Air Peace partnered on the initiative. Odenigbo thanked each for their support.
A panel discussion explored how education support improves learning outcomes. Adaobi Ekwuno from the Teachers Registration Council participated.
Ekwuno urged government at all levels to invest in schools. Public institutions need upgraded facilities and infrastructure, she argued.
Gbenga Ayetoba, secretary of the Nigeria Union of Teachers Lagos Chapter, spoke next. He noted the teaching profession has faced government neglect over decades.
According to Ayetoba, Nigeria's education mindset needs change. Investment in teachers must become a national priority.
Olushola Masheyi, president of ANCOPSS Lagos State, praised the initiative. He commended Nigerian Breweries for supporting the teaching profession.
