A teacher from Yobe State, Gambo Lawan, has emerged as the Best Teacher in the North-East at the 2026 National Teachers Award Ceremony organised by the Federal Ministry of Education.
Lawan, who teaches at Yerimaram Government Day Junior Secondary School, Potiskum, was announced as the regional winner at the ceremony held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. She received a ₦25 million cash prize, making her one of the top awardees at the national event, which celebrates teachers for excellence, dedication and innovation in classroom practice.
Officials of the Yobe State Universal Basic Education Board (YSUBEB) said the selection process was rigorous, transparent and merit-based, with strong emphasis on professionalism, classroom innovation and measurable learning outcomes.
Speaking exclusively with Punch correspondent on Sunday, Lawan described her emergence as a product of dedication and passion for teaching.
“I am extremely grateful to God for this recognition. It is the result of years of hard work, patience, consistency and love for teaching. This award has encouraged me to do even more for my students,” she said.
She admitted that the announcement of her name came as a surprise.
“Honestly, I was overwhelmed. I did not expect it, but I kept believing that whatever the outcome, God’s will would prevail. This is a great honour, not just to me, but to Yobe State and my school,” she added.
Lawan noted that the award had further strengthened her resolve to contribute more to the education sector.
“This recognition has placed a greater responsibility on me. I promise to work harder, mentor younger teachers and continue to impact knowledge, values and discipline in my students,” she said.
Reacting to the development, the Executive Chairman of YSUBEB, Umaru Hassan-Babayo, said Lawan’s achievement had projected Yobe State positively on the national stage.
“Her success underscores Yobe State’s steady emergence as a serious stakeholder in western education. It reflects the investments being made in education and human capital development across the state,” he said.
Hassan-Babayo added that the award further validated the state government’s commitment to supporting teachers and improving learning outcomes in public schools.
In addition to the ₦25 million cash prize, Lawan was also awarded a tertiary education scholarship in recognition of her outstanding performance.
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