Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has announced a reward of N5 million and a bungalow for Kayode Adewale, a Mathematics teacher recently shortlisted for the $1 million Global Teacher Prize.
Adewale, who teaches at Imagbon/Imaka Comprehensive High School, Ogun State, was named among the top 50 finalists for the prestigious award presented annually by the Varkey Foundation in partnership with UNESCO.
The teacher was recognized for his innovative approach to teaching mathematics, blending technology with the local language to enhance understanding.
In a statement on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, Governor Abiodun praised Adewale for his dedication to education and announced his appointment as Ogun State Education Ambassador.
“As a state that prides itself on being the education capital of Nigeria, we are immensely proud to celebrate one of our own, Kayode Adewale, a visionary educator who has earned a place among the Top 50 teachers globally in the prestigious Global Teacher Prize,” the governor said.
“To commemorate this achievement, we will provide him with a bungalow in any part of Ogun State of his choice. Additionally, we will support him with a cash prize of ₦5,000,000 to further inspire his outstanding work in education.”
Adewale, an alumnus of Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Nigeria’s premier teacher training institution, has received widespread acclaim for his innovative teaching methods.
The Global Teacher Prize, a $1 million initiative, honors educators who make extraordinary contributions to transforming lives and communities through education.
Adewale previously won the Best Teacher Award in Ogun State in 2020. Reflecting on his recent global recognition, Governor Abiodun said, “Kayode’s global achievement exemplifies what it means to serve selflessly and resourcefully. His humility and unwavering dedication to uplifting his community through education are truly commendable.”
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering excellence in education and encouraged other teachers to emulate Adewale’s commitment.
Adewale expressed gratitude to the state government and the Varkey Foundation for recognizing his efforts, adding, “This is not just a win for me but for my students, my school, and my community.”
