Nasarawa Teacher Esomnofu Ifechukwu Emerges as 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year
Esomnofu Chidiebube Ifechukwu, a teacher from Crown Grace School in Nasarawa State, has won the 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year award. The award ceremony, held in Lagos on October 11, 2024, marked the 10th edition of the competition.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
A teacher from Crown Grace School, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, Esomnofu Chidiebube Ifechukwu, has been crowned the 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year at the 10th edition of the prestigious competition. The Grand Finale event took place on Friday, October 11, 2024, in Lagos, where Ifechukwu was presented with a N10 million cash prize.
In addition to the monetary award, Ifechukwu will participate in an all-expense-paid capacity development training overseas and receive a N30 million worth school infrastructure project for Crown Grace School. The competition, which celebrates the exceptional efforts of teachers across Nigeria, recognized 36 finalists this year.
Kehinde Olukayode from Molusi College, Ogun State, and Aniefiok Udoh from Community Secondary Commercial School, Akwa Ibom State, emerged as the first and second runners-up, winning N3 million and N2 million, respectively. Furthermore, 34 state champions received N1 million each for their achievements.
Speaking on behalf of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, expressed appreciation to Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund for their commitment to elevating education. He highlighted the initiative's role in promoting teachers' impact nationwide, including the donation of a digital language laboratory to Keke Senior High School in honor of the 2023 winner.
The Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, represented by Dr. Adedotun Abdul of Yaba College of Technology, commended the competition’s role in inspiring teachers and supporting educational development. He reiterated the Federal Government's commitment to enhancing the teaching profession through the National Teaching Policy.
Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Hans Essaadi, emphasized the importance of the 10th edition milestone, describing it as a celebration of teachers' dedication to shaping future leaders. Corporate Affairs Director Sade Morgan added that the competition saw 1,300 valid entries from all 37 states, reflecting the widespread recognition and admiration for teachers in Nigeria.
Prof. Pat Utomi, Chairman of the Panel of Judges, described the 2024 edition as the most competitive since its inception, underscoring the rising standards in the nation's educational sector.
In his acceptance speech, Ifechukwu expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund for recognizing the vital role of teachers. He revealed that this victory marked the culmination of a journey that began with his first application in 2020.
Since 2015, the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition has consistently honored outstanding educators, with past winners including Rose Nkemdilim Obi, Imoh Essien, Felix Ariguzo, Olasunkanmi Opeifa, and others.
