Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, has been named the Most Innovative Cabinet Minister of the Year 2025 at the Independent Newspapers Limited Silver Jubilee Awards in Lagos.

He was selected for his leadership in driving substantial reforms under the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI).

Alausa emerged as the winner after a highly competitive selection process involving cabinet ministers across sectors. The award followed a rigorous evaluation combining nationwide public voting, independent jury assessment, and editorial board review.

The recognition, however, celebrates his exceptional leadership, innovative governance, and measurable impact in public service delivery.

Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Education expressed its sincere appreciation to the newspaper for the honour on the minister.

The ministry, in a statement signed by Director, Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, reiterated that the recognition serves as renewed motivation to accelerate reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Meanwhile, Alausa, speaking on the award, expressed gratitude to Nigerians and the organisers, reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustained transformation in the education sector.

“I sincerely thank Nigerians, the organisers, and the judges for this honour. It reflects the collective effort to reposition education in our country. While we appreciate this recognition, it also reminds us that there is still much work to be done. This is only the beginning, and we remain fully committed to driving meaningful and lasting reforms that will secure a better future for every Nigerian child,” he said.