Ogun Teacher, Francis Taiwo Solanke, Named Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher, Wins ₦2.5m and a New Car

Francis Taiwo Solanke, a teacher at Ansar-Ud-Deen Main School 1, Kemta-Ilawo, Abeokuta South, has been honoured as Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher for 2025.

Solanke, who is also a devoted elder at The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Idi-Aba District, Abeokuta Area, received the award during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration held on Sunday, October 5, 2025, in Abuja.

The prestigious President’s Teachers and Schools Excellence Award recognized him as the Most Outstanding Teacher in Nigeria across both primary and secondary school categories.

Earlier the same day, Solanke was also celebrated in Ogun State, where he clinched the Dapo Abiodun State Award as the Best Public Primary School Teacher. His wife, Deaconess Grace Solanke, represented him at the state event and received a ₦2.5 million cash prize, presented by the Deputy Governor, Engineer Noimot Salako-Oyedele.

As part of the national recognition, Solanke was also awarded a brand-new car for his exceptional service and dedication to education.