Esomnofu Chidiebube Ifechukwu from Crown Grace School in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, has been recognized as one of the leading finalists in the esteemed 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year competition, organized by the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund. Esomnofu is among 11 exceptional educators who reached the final stage following a comprehensive selection process.

This year's competition attracted 1,477 submissions, with 1,300 teachers progressing to the initial evaluation phase. From this group, 136 educators were shortlisted for further assessment, ultimately leading to the selection of the top 11 by a panel of judges renowned for their meticulous and transparent evaluation methods.

The finalists include Aniefiok Iniobong Udoh from Community Secondary Commercial School in Ikot Oku Ikono, Akwa Ibom State; Nwosu Chinenye Augustina from Anthony Obaze Memorial Community Secondary School in Ogbaru LGA, Anambra; Ojo Olumuyiwa Olumide from Apex Group of School in Ibillo, Akoko Edo, Edo State; Ojo Olufunke Adewunmi from Praise Worthy Secondary School in Ikota Ekiti, Ekiti State; and Akinyele Samuel from Kingdom Seed International School in Lokoja, Kogi State.

Additional finalists alongside Esomnofu include Abidoye Aderonke Ibiyemi from Kosofe Senior College in Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Lagos State; Kehinde Oladapo Olukayode from Molusi College in Oke Sopen, Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State; Isaac Michael Ayodele from CAC Grammar School in Akure, Ondo State; Famuyide Florence Bola from Olatunde Comprehensive High School in Owena-Ijesa, Osun State; and Abiodun Regina Nwagbo from Mother’s Joy College in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Sade Morgan, the Corporate Affairs Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, acknowledged the judges' commitment, highlighting that their meticulous evaluation process reflects the integrity of the competition. She also praised the finalists for their dedication to educational excellence and urged them to persist in their efforts.

The 10th edition of the Maltina Teacher of the Year competition will culminate in a grand finale on Friday, October 11, 2024, at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos. The event will be honored by the presence of the Special Guest of Honour, Honourable Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yussuf Sununu, along with Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The winner will be awarded N10 million, along with additional prizes, as part of Nigerian Breweries’ commitment to fostering educational excellence.

Since its launch, the competition has celebrated and rewarded over 200 outstanding teachers, aligning with the company’s mission to elevate educational standards in Nigeria.

In a goodwill message, Hans Essaadi, CEO of Nigerian Breweries Plc and Chairman of the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, expressed profound respect for teachers and their essential role in shaping future generations. He reaffirmed the company’s dedication to supporting educators and enhancing education through various initiatives, including increased cash prizes for this year’s winners.

As the 2024 competition approaches its conclusion, Essaadi extended his gratitude to all teachers, stakeholders, and partners who continue to champion education. He encouraged the finalists to keep inspiring others with their passion for teaching, as their contributions illuminate the path for the future of education in Nigeria.