Meet Nigeria’s overall best teacher from Ogun

Dr. Mary Adebayo, a teacher from Nawair-Ud-Deen Grammar School in Obantoko, Abeokuta, Ogun State, has been named Nigeria's Overall Best Teacher for 2026. This prestigious recognition was awarded to her during the 2026 World Teachers' Day celebration in Abuja, where she was presented with a brand-new car as the grand prize. Adebayo expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating that she had continued teaching without realizing that her efforts would earn her such a reward.

She won the Best Public Senior Secondary School Teacher category, which led her to be named the overall best teacher in the country. The Nawair-Ud-Deen Grammar School's Old Students Association congratulated Adebayo, praising her commitment to teaching and the advancement of education in Nigeria. The association also noted that her achievement brought honor to the school and its community.

The Ogun State Teaching Service Commission and its National President, Hon. Fasiu Bakenne, also congratulated Adebayo, the school's management and staff. Lawmaker Nasir Gboyega Isiaka, representing Afon, Imeko-Afon, and the wider constituency, described her as an illustrious daughter of the area and emphasized the importance of education in strengthening opportunities for young people.

The 2026 World Teachers' Day celebration had the theme "Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing the Status and Shaping Our Future."