Entries Open for the 12th Martina Teacher of the Year Competition
The Brewery of Nigeria and the Felix Ohiweleyi Educational Trust Fund have officially launched the 12th edition of the Martina Teacher of the Year Competition. This year’s competition runs from Thursday, June 3, 2026, to Friday, August 7, 2026.
Celebrating Exceptional Middle School Teachers
This national initiative aims to identify and honor exceptional middle school teachers who have made significant contributions to the educational landscape of Nigeria. The competition seeks to recognize those educators who are committed to shaping the future through their dedication and innovative teaching methods.
Support from Industry Partners
During the flag-off ceremony held in Lagos, Uaboi Agbebaku, Secretary of the Nigeria Breweries Felix Ohiwelei Education Trust Fund, emphasized the importance of this platform in acknowledging the transformative role of teachers. He noted an increasing interest from various organizations looking to partner with the Trust Fund, reflecting a shared commitment to enhance educational outcomes across the nation.
Prizes for Outstanding Educators
Mr. Uzodinma Odenigbo, Public Relations Officer of the NB-Felix Ohiwerei Educational Trust Fund, announced that the overall winner of the 2026 competition will receive a substantial cash prize of Ten Million Naira (N10,000,000). The winner will also be awarded a brand new Honda HR-V and a one-year Martina supply, along with the opportunity for international development training. Furthermore, the winning school will benefit from an infrastructure project valued at Thirty Million Naira (N30,000,000).
Recognition for Excellence
In addition to the grand prize, Odenigbo stated that the first runner-up will receive Three Million Naira (N3,000,000) and a trophy, while other state winners will be honored with a plaque and cash prizes of One Million Naira (N1,000,000) each. He reiterated the company’s long-term commitment to educational support through impactful programs that enhance teaching and learning across Nigeria.
Investing in the Future of Education
Odenigbo emphasized that the Martina Teacher of the Year Competition is crucial in celebrating educators who go beyond conventional teaching. By fostering excellence in education, the initiative aims to develop future leaders and contribute substantially to national development. He extended gratitude to partners such as Honda Automobile West Africa Limited, Union Bank, and Air Peace for their invaluable support in advancing this initiative.
Calls for Supporting Educational Infrastructure
At the flag-off ceremony, Mr. Adaobi Ekuuno, Lagos State Coordinator of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, highlighted the necessity for government investment in public school facilities. Gbenga Aetuba, Secretary of the Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Union of Teachers, pointed out that the teaching profession has often been overlooked by policymakers, advocating for a shift in the national mindset towards education. Meanwhile, Olusola Mashei, Chairman of the All Nigeria Confederation of Secondary School Principals (ANCOPPS), noted that attracting talent to the teaching profession remains a challenge, contributing to the decline in educational quality.
Application Process for Interested Teachers
Eligible teachers interested in participating in the Martina Teacher of the Year Competition can apply through the dedicated website [www.maltinateacheroftheyear.com](http://www.maltinateacheroftheyear.com) or download the application form, fill it out, and email it to [email protected]. Since its inception in 2015, the competition has gained endorsement from the Federal Ministry of Education and various educational stakeholders, reinforcing its significance in recognizing and elevating the teaching profession in Nigeria.
