TACN Elder Francis Taiwo Solanke Emerges Overall Best Teacher in Nigeria, Wins Brand-New Car

ABUJA / ABEOKUTA—In a wave of national and religious celebration, Mr. Francis Taiwo Solanke, a devoted Elder of The Apostolic Church Nigeria (TACN), Idi-Aba District, Abeokuta Area, has been crowned the Overall Best Teacher in Nigeria for the year 2025.

The prestigious national recognition, accompanied by the grand prize of a brand-new car, was presented to Mr. Solanke on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the Eagle Square in Abuja, during the national ceremony commemorating the 2025 World Teachers' Day.

Mr. Solanke, a primary school teacher at Ansar-ud-Deen Main School 1, Kemta-Ilawo, in Abeokuta South Local Government Area of Ogun State, was declared the Most Outstanding Teacher across both the Primary and Secondary School categories nationwide, a testament to his exceptional dedication and innovative teaching methods.

Double Victory on World Teachers' Day

The national feat capped a day of double celebration for the outstanding educator. Earlier on the same day, Mr. Solanke was honored by the Ogun State Government, clinching the prestigious Dapo Abiodun State Award for the Best Public Primary School Teacher in Ogun State.

At the state-level event, where his wife, Deaconess Grace Solanke, proudly represented him, Mr. Solanke received a significant cash prize of ₦2.5 million, presented by the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.

Sources close to the award winner indicated that his remarkable commitment to nurturing young minds and driving academic excellence was the key factor in securing both the state and national titles. His victory reinforces Ogun State’s reputation as a leader in educational excellence.

The entire community of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Idi-Aba District, Abeokuta Area, has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Elder Solanke on this monumental achievement, recognizing that he has brought immense pride not just to his family and his church, but also to Ogun State and the nation at large.

The recognition on World Teachers' Day serves to highlight the indispensable role of dedicated educators in shaping the future of Nigeria.