The Kwara State Government has rewarded outstanding teachers, school administrators, academics, and schools with ₦119.5m as part of activities marking the 2026 World Teachers’ Day. The awards were presented in four categories: outstanding teachers, principals and head teachers, serving and retired university academics, and the Best Kept School Award. This initiative aims to appreciate teachers' sacrifices and motivate them to maintain high standards in the education sector.
Under the award scheme, 119 outstanding teachers received a combined ₦59.5m, while 29 principals and head teachers received ₦29m. Eleven serving and retired university academics were also presented with ₦22m under the Pioneer Professorship Recognition Award. Three schools that emerged winners of the Best Kept School Award shared another ₦9m. The total value of the awards is ₦119.5m.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq disclosed the initiatives on Monday during the World Teachers’ Day celebration in Ilorin. He said the recognition was aimed at appreciating teachers' sacrifices and motivating them to maintain high standards in the education sector. The governor also emphasized the government's commitment to improving teachers' welfare and working conditions on a sustainable basis.
The governor also announced a plan to purchase Dangote Refinery shares for outstanding female teachers in public schools as part of efforts to promote investment, financial inclusion, and asset ownership among women. According to AbdulRazaq, the state has been discussing the initiative with the Aliko Dangote Foundation. Each selected beneficiary will receive 10 shares.
The proposed arrangement includes a matching-share component involving the Dangote Foundation. Female teachers under the Teaching Service Commission and the State Universal Basic Education Board will be targeted, with outstanding retired female teachers also considered under the programme. The Head of Service, Dr Olufunke Mercy Shittu, has been directed to develop the modalities for their inclusion.
Governor AbdulRazaq highlighted his administration's focus on improving the quality of education through merit-based teacher recruitment, continuous professional development, improved school infrastructure, and the use of technology and data through the KwaraLEARN programme. Regular promotions and the implementation of the 27.5 per cent Teachers’ Specific Allowance are among measures introduced to improve teachers' welfare.
The Chairman of the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board, Prof Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, announced that the state government had approved the 2026 promotion exercise for eligible teachers. The state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers commended the government's investments in education and teachers' welfare but called for the adoption of the national harmonised retirement age for teachers.
Key points
- The Kwara State Government has rewarded outstanding teachers and school administrators with ₦119.5m.
- The government plans to acquire Dangote Refinery shares for outstanding female teachers.
- The state has introduced measures to improve teachers' welfare and educational outcomes.
