Maltina Teacher of the Year 2026 Winner to Receive N10m, Brand-New Honda HR-V
By Rita Onuoha
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
The Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund (NB-FOETF) has announced an enhanced reward package for the winner of the 2026 Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition, with the overall champion set to receive a grand prize of N10 million alongside a brand-new Honda HR-V sport utility vehicle.
The announcement was made during the official launch and call for entries for the 12th edition of the prestigious competition held in Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Sustainability Manager of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Oluseye Olokun, disclosed that the addition of a Honda HR-V marks a significant milestone in the history of the award, further demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to recognising excellence in the teaching profession.
According to him, entries for the 2026 edition have opened and will close on August 7, while the grand finale and announcement of the overall winner are scheduled for October 30, 2026.
Beyond the cash prize and vehicle, the overall winner will benefit from a comprehensive reward package that includes a N30 million infrastructure project for the teacher’s school, a one-year supply of Maltina, and an international capacity-building training programme designed to enhance professional development.
The organisers also retained the reward structure for other outstanding participants. The first runner-up will receive N5 million, while the second runner-up will be awarded N3 million. In addition, each state champion from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory will receive N1 million in recognition of their contributions to education.
Reflecting on the impact of the initiative since its inception, Olokun noted that more than 11,700 entries have been received over the years, highlighting the growing relevance of the competition among educators nationwide.
He revealed that Kaduna State, Lagos State, and the Federal Capital Territory recorded the highest number of entries among the over 2,000 submissions received during the 2025 edition, expressing optimism that participation would increase significantly this year.
“This competition was established to recognise and reward exceptional teachers while also inspiring greater passion and commitment within the profession. The level of participation recorded over the years demonstrates the importance of celebrating educators who contribute immensely to national development,” Olokun stated.
In his welcome address, the Public Relations Officer of the NB-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, Mr. Uzodinma Odenigbo, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting quality education through strategic interventions that strengthen teaching and learning outcomes across Nigeria.
Odenigbo explained that the overall winner would receive a combined package comprising N10 million, a brand-new Honda HR-V, a one-year supply of Maltina, and an overseas professional development opportunity. He added that the winner’s school would also benefit from an infrastructure project valued at N30 million.
“The first runner-up will receive N5 million and a trophy, while the second runner-up will receive N3 million and a trophy. State champions across the federation will receive recognition plaques and a cash reward of N1 million each,” he said.
He described the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition as one of the flagship educational interventions of Nigerian Breweries, noting that it continues to celebrate educators who inspire excellence, nurture future leaders, and contribute significantly to national development.
“At Nigerian Breweries, we believe that investing in teachers is ultimately an investment in Nigeria’s future. Through this initiative, we continue to honour teachers whose dedication extends beyond the classroom and positively impacts society,” Odenigbo added.
He also expressed appreciation to the programme’s partners, including Honda Automobile West Africa Limited, Union Bank Plc, and Air Peace, for their continued support in advancing educational development through the initiative.
Delivering the keynote address, education advocate Mr. Azeez Saheed emphasised the critical role teachers play in shaping the future of young Nigerians. He observed that many educators do not receive adequate recognition despite their immense contributions and called on government authorities to place greater value on the teaching profession.
During a panel discussion on the theme, “How Educational Support Can Enhance Learning Outcomes for Teachers and Students,” the Lagos State Coordinator of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Princess Adaobi Ekwuno, stressed the need for sustained investment in public school infrastructure and learning facilities across the country.
Similarly, the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Lagos State Chapter, Mr. Gbenga Ayetoba, lamented what he described as years of neglect of the teaching profession, urging policymakers to change societal perceptions about education and teachers.
Also speaking at the session, President of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Lagos State Chapter, Mr. Olushola Masheyi, commended Nigerian Breweries for sustaining the initiative. He noted that the teaching profession is increasingly struggling to attract top talent, a development he said has contributed to declining educational standards.
Stakeholders at the event agreed that sustained recognition, improved welfare, and strategic investments in education remain essential to strengthening Nigeria’s education sector and enhancing learning outcomes for future generations.
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