Yobe Teacher Gambo Lawan Emerges North-East Best at 2026 National Teachers’ Awards

Gambo Lawan, a teacher at Yerimaram Government Day Junior Secondary School in Potiskum, Yobe State, has been named Best Teacher in the North-East at the 2026 National Teachers’ Award Ceremony, earning national recognition for excellence, innovation, and impact in public education.

The award, organised by the Federal Ministry of Education, was presented at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where Lawan received a ₦25 million cash prize. She also earned a tertiary education scholarship, placing her among the most celebrated educators at the national ceremony.

Education officials said Lawan emerged from a highly competitive and merit-driven selection process that assessed professionalism, creativity in teaching methods, and measurable learning outcomes. Her achievement further highlights Yobe State’s growing profile in education, a sector that has recently produced notable academic successes at both national and international levels.

Last year, students from the state drew international attention after posting strong performances at global academic competitions in London, reinforcing the connection between classroom dedication and student excellence. Education observers say such milestones reflect the influence of committed teachers working within the public school system, particularly in regions often left out of national education narratives.

Reacting to the honour, Lawan described the recognition as the result of years of consistency, patience, and deep passion for teaching. She said the announcement came as a surprise but viewed it as both encouragement and responsibility.

“This award has motivated me to do even more for my students,” she said, adding that she intends to mentor younger teachers and continue promoting discipline, values, and academic excellence in the classroom.

The Executive Chairman of the Yobe State Universal Basic Education Board (YSUBEB), Umaru Hassan-Babayo, said Lawan’s success reflected sustained investments in education and human capital development across the state. He noted that her emergence at the national level demonstrated that quality teaching and innovation can thrive in public schools when teachers are properly supported.

Education stakeholders say Lawan’s recognition sends a strong signal about the importance of rewarding excellence in teaching and reinforces the role of educators as central drivers of long-term development.