Lagos: The Lagos State Government has recognized outstanding teaching and non-teaching staff in Education District III, presenting them with merit awards and cash gifts. The awards were distributed during the 21st Annual Merit Award Ceremony organized by the Lagos State Education District III, as announced by the Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufunke Oyetola.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the ceremony, themed ‘Driving Excellence in Education for National Development,’ aimed to acknowledge the significant contributions of educators in the districts comprising Ikoyi, Lagos Island, Ibeju Lekki, Epe, and Eti-Osa. The awards covered various categories, including Best School, Best Teacher, Best Principal, and Best School Support Staff, across junior and senior secondary schools.

Dr. Oyetola highlighted the achievements of the top-performing schools and educators. In the Junior Category, Lagos State Junior Model College, Badore, secured the first position, followed by Elemoro Community Junior Secondary School and Iwerekun Community Junior Secondary School, Lakowe. For the Senior Category, Government Senior College, Epe, took the top spot, with Community Senior High School, Lakowe, and Epe Senior Grammar School, Epe, following.

The tutor-general emphasized that these awards are part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s ‘THEMES+ Agenda,’ which focuses on substantial investment in the state’s education sector. The event celebrated not only the recipients’ success but also their passion and perseverance in shaping the future.

Alhaji Kamal Bayewu, Chairman of the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission, praised the governor for increasing the budget allocation to education annually. He acknowledged the crucial role teachers play in nurturing the future generation.

Guest Lecturer Prof. Mary Odukoya addressed the issue of examination malpractice, labeling it a national crime against development. She urged the government to build a system that rewards honesty and integrity while celebrating teachers as role models.

Mr. Olamide Olaniyi, the best teacher in the Senior Category, expressed gratitude on behalf of the awardees, encouraging the state to continue fostering policies that empower innovation and honor educators. He called for schools that ignite curiosity and teachers who inspire greatness.