A member of the FarmingFarmersFarms (FFF) Farmers Medical Scheme, Dr. (Mrs.) Mary Adebayo, who works with Nawair-Ud-Deen Grammar School (Senior), Obantoko, Abeokuta, Ogun State, has emerged Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher for 2026.
Adebayo clinched the top honour at the Federal Government’s President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards, held during the 2026 World Teachers’ Day celebration in Abuja.
The award recognises outstanding teachers, school administrators, and schools across different categories.
Adebayo won the Best Public Senior Secondary School Teacher category, from which she was selected as the overall best teacher in the country, and was rewarded with a brand-new car as star prize.
Speaking while receiving the car, an elated Adebayo expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying she never expected such a reward for her dedication.
“I started this work in a private school. I kept doing the work, I did not know the Lord will reward me this way”, she said.
The 2026 World Teachers’ Day was held under the theme, “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing the Status and Shaping Our Future”.
The awardee 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 from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB).
The Nawair-Ud-Deen Grammar School, Obantoko Old Students Association (NUDGOSA), described her achievement as a source of pride for the school and the entire community.
In a statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Sanni Damilola, and on behalf of the National President, Hon. Fasiu Bakenne, the association said her emergence reflects commitment to teaching and advancement of education in Nigeria, and serves as inspiration to students, teachers, and the alumni.
“NUDGOSA is particularly proud that one of our own has risen to the pinnacle of the teaching profession in Nigeria”, the statement said.
A lawmaker, Hon. Nasir Isiaka congratulated Adebayo, describing her as an illustrious daughter of Afon, Imeko-Afon, and a pride to the constituency. In his message titled “Celebrating Excellence: Congratulations to Nigeria’s Best Teacher,” Isiaka said her feat demonstrates the excellence within local communities and aligns with his commitment to strengthening education.
He noted that education remains central to expanding opportunities for young people and wished her greater success in her professional service.
Some members of the FFF Farmers Medical Scheme, Dorcas Osholajomo and Felicia Atsehekaa, have also joined others to congratulate Adebayo on her landmark achievement.
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