FUNAAB Alumna, Dr. Mary Adebayo Makes History as Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher for 2026

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has celebrated the emergence of its alumna, Dr. Mary Adebayo, as Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher for 2026, describing the prestigious national recognition as a testament to the quality of its graduates and their contributions to national development.

Speaking on the achievement, the Ag. Head, Directorate of Public Relations (DPR), FUNAAB, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olajide, described Dr. Adebayo’s triumph as a moment of immense pride for the University, noting that her accomplishment exemplifies the values of academic excellence, discipline, professional competence and dedication to service that FUNAAB seeks to instil in its graduates.

Dr. Adebayo, a teacher at Nawair-Ud-Deen Grammar School (Senior), Obantoko, Abeokuta, Ogun State, received the prestigious honour at the President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards in Abuja, held as part of the 2026 World Teachers’ Day celebration. In recognition of her exceptional performance, she was also presented with a brand-new car.

According to Mr. Olajide, Dr. Adebayo’s achievement holds special significance for FUNAAB, where she obtained her first Degree in Animal Production and Health (APH) in 2003, followed by a Master’s Degree in Animal Physiology (ANP) in 2011 and a PhD in the same discipline in 2021.

He noted that her academic journey and professional accomplishments reflect the enduring value of quality education, continuous learning and a commitment to excellence. He described her as a worthy ambassador of FUNAAB whose accomplishments have brought honour to her alma mater, Ogun State and the nation.

Beyond emerging as Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher for 2026, Dr. Adebayo also won the Best Public Senior Secondary School Teacher category, earning double national recognition for her outstanding contributions to teaching and learning.

The Ag. Head, DPR, observed that the dual honours highlighted the critical role of teachers in shaping the intellectual, moral and social development of young people. He added that Dr. Adebayo’s recognition was a fitting reward for her dedication to effective classroom delivery, exemplary professional conduct and the nurturing of future generations.

Mr. Olajide further noted that her accomplishment reinforced FUNAAB’s reputation for producing graduates who excel across diverse professional fields. He explained that although the University is widely recognised for its leadership in agriculture and related disciplines, the achievements of its alumni in education and other sectors demonstrate the far-reaching impact of its academic training on society.

Congratulating Dr. Adebayo, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, commended her dedication to the teaching profession and described her national recognition as a worthy accomplishment. He expressed confidence that her success would inspire other FUNAAB alumni, practising teachers and aspiring professionals to pursue excellence and make meaningful contributions to society.

Meanwhile, Dr. Adebayo’s emergence as Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher for 2026 represents not only a personal triumph but also a significant milestone for FUNAAB and the teaching profession. Her accomplishment highlights the transformative power of education, the importance of professional dedication and the enduring contributions of committed teachers to national development.