Ogun Teacher Mary Adebayo Emerges Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher for 2026

Dr Mary Oluwaseun Adebayo, a teacher at Nawair-Ud-Deen Grammar School Senior in Obantoko, Abeokuta, Ogun State, received national recognition for her contribution to education at the Federal Government’s 2026 President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards in Abuja on Monday, October 5, 2026. She received a brand-new car as the star prize for her achievement.

Adebayo earned the overall national title after winning the Best Public Senior Secondary School Teacher category during the awards, held as part of the World Teachers’ Day celebration.

How Mary Adebayo Won the Award

The awards recognise outstanding teachers, school administrators and educational institutions across Nigeria for their contributions to education.

Adebayo expressed gratitude for the recognition, explaining that she had continued working without expecting such a reward. She also recalled beginning her teaching career in a private school before receiving the national honour.

School Community Celebrates Her Achievement

The Nawair-Ud-Deen Grammar School, Obantoko Old Students Association congratulated Adebayo, describing her achievement as a source of pride for the school and its wider community.

The association said her recognition demonstrated the value of dedication to teaching and the advancement of education. It also noted that her achievement could inspire students, teachers and alumni.

The association’s National President, Hon. Fasiu Bakenne, congratulated Adebayo alongside the school’s management and staff and the Ogun State Teaching Service Commission.

Other Educators Recognised at the 2026 Awards

The Federal Government’s 2026 President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards also recognised educators and school administrators in several other categories.

Gloria Nkolika Odionu of Awada Primary School IV in Obosi, Anambra State, emerged Overall Best Administrator after winning the Best Public Primary School Administrator category.

Other recognised educators included

• Peace Amarachi Ohanuka of Ideke Community Primary School in Anambra State, who won the Best Public Primary School Teacher category
• Ogechukwu Jacinta Ifeajekwu of Divine Rays British Secondary School in Anambra State, who won the Best Private Junior Secondary School Teacher category.

Recognition for Teachers in Nigeria

Adebayo’s achievement has brought national attention to her school and Ogun State, while highlighting the contributions of teachers to students’ academic development and the country’s education system.