Wema Bank Plc has rewarded three outstanding educators with N4.5 million in cash prizes as part of its 2025 Wema @ 80 Teachers’ Day Campaign.
The bank, in a statement on Tuesday, said the award ceremony took place at its headquarters in Marina, Lagos, with the theme “Celebrating Teachers with a Legacy of Impact.” The campaign was part of Wema Bank’s 80th-anniversary celebrations and aimed to recognise teachers who have made lasting contributions to education and youth development in Nigeria.
According to the bank, the campaign served as a platform to honour teachers who have dedicated their lives to mentoring and shaping generations of students.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Wema Bank, Mr. Moruf Oseni, described teachers as the “unsung heroes” of society, saying their sacrifices often go unnoticed despite their crucial role in national development.
“Today, we are honoured to celebrate our educators, the teachers who have impacted lives through their resilience and dedication,” Oseni said. “As we mark 80 years of empowering communities and driving positive impact, the Wema Bank Teachers’ Day Campaign is one of the ways we invest in the education sector and support those who build our future.”
The winners of the 2025 edition were the founder of Teens-Train, Mr. Abraham Ngobiri, who received N2 million; the founder of Heritage X Foundation, Mrs. Esther Adesada, who received N1.5 million; and the founder of Educycle, Ms. Taiwo Alabi, who received N1 million.
Ngobiri, who has built a platform that mentors and counsels young people across Nigeria, expressed appreciation to the bank for recognising teachers who make a difference beyond the classroom.
“For many years, teachers have given their all quietly, and what Wema Bank has done today makes us feel seen and valued,” he said. “This recognition fuels our commitment to keep shaping lives and building better communities.”
Adesada described the honour as a timely encouragement, saying it gave her strength to keep pushing despite challenges.
“This recognition is a huge motivation and a pick-me-up in a year where I was battling self-doubt in my calling,” she said. “It’s a reminder that no matter the difficulty faced in doing your part, you should keep going. The children and even the world are observing, and it will come back to you beautifully one day.”
Alabi, the third recipient, said being recognised on a national platform means a lot to every teacher who works daily to inspire others.
“To be recognised on this platform means a lot, not just for me but for every teacher who wakes up daily to inspire the next generation,” she said. “Thank you, Wema Bank, for leading this movement and reminding us that teaching truly matters.”
The Wema @ 80 Teachers’ Day Campaign was launched in September 2025, inviting students and alumni to share 80-second videos celebrating teachers who had made a lasting impact on their lives. Out of the numerous entries received nationwide, ten teachers were shortlisted, and three were selected as overall winners through a rigorous judging process.
Wema Bank stated that its Teachers’ Day Campaign has grown into a nationwide movement that promotes teacher appreciation and professional development. Since inception, the initiative has invested over N20 million in prizes, mentorship programmes, and digital learning opportunities, reaching more than 3,000 students and 10 schools across Nigeria.
The bank added that it remains committed to supporting education and community development through its various social impact projects.
