The Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition has commenced its 12th edition, with organisers, the Nigerian Breweries–Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, announcing the official flag-off of the 2026 cycle alongside a renewed wave of corporate and institutional partnerships aimed at strengthening quality education in Nigeria.
The flag-off ceremony, held in Lagos, brought together key stakeholders from the education sector, corporate organisations, and the media, marking the beginning of another nationwide search for outstanding teachers who continue to shape learning outcomes across the country.
This year’s edition further reinforces the initiative’s position as one of Nigeria’s most consistent education recognition platforms, with entries open to teachers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
According to organisers, the programme has grown significantly since its inception in 2015, evolving into a national platform that celebrates teaching excellence, promotes capacity development, and strengthens the status of educators in society. More than 300 teachers have been recognised through the initiative, with state champions emerging annually before the final national selection.
A key highlight of the 2026 flag-off was the unveiling of a brand-new Honda HR-V, donated by Honda Automobile Nigeria Limited, which has been added to the reward structure for the eventual overall winner of the competition. The development reflects the increasing participation of corporate partners in supporting education-focused initiatives in the country.
The competition continues to attract strong collaboration from leading private sector organisations, including Union Bank, Ecobank, Air Peace, and other partners who have consistently supported the initiative through the Nigerian Breweries–Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund.
Speaking at the event, stakeholders reiterated the importance of sustained investment in education and teacher development, noting that the Maltina Teacher of the Year initiative remains a critical platform for recognising excellence and inspiring improvement in the education sector.
Over the years, the competition has produced notable winners from across Nigeria, including educators who have contributed significantly to classroom innovation and community impact. Past winners include Mrs. Rose Nkemdilim Obi (2015), Mr. Imoh Enoh Essien (2016), Mr. Ariguzo Udochukwu (2017), Mr. Olasunkanmi Opeifa (2018), Mr. Ezem Collins (2019), Ms. Oluwabunmi Anani (2020), Mr. Abanika Taiye (2021), Mr. Ayiwulu Alaku (2022), Ms. Adeola Adefemi (2023), Mr. Esomnofu Chidiebube (2024), and Ms. Serah Yusuf (2025).
The Nigerian Breweries–Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, which drives the initiative, continues to position the programme as part of its long-standing commitment to education development in Nigeria, with a focus on teacher recognition, school support, and sustainable learning outcomes.
As the 2026 edition begins, expectations are high that another cohort of exceptional educators will emerge from across the federation, reinforcing the growing importance of teachers as central drivers of national development.