In a milestone event celebrating excellence and innovation in Nigeria’s education sector, Femi Patrick Oyedoyin, a Biology educator and STEM coach at City of Knowledge Academy (CKA), Ijebu Ode, has been named Best Teacher in Nigeria at the maiden edition of the Teach & Win Nigeria Reality Show. The competition, organised by the Initiatives For Educational Development And Literacy (IFEDAL Educational Consult Ltd), a pan-African NGO, is being hailed as a transformative platform for recognising outstanding educators.

Described as the “Big Brother of the teaching profession,” the reality show began with nearly 1,000 teachers from across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Following multiple rounds of rigorous screening, 140 participants were shortlisted, later reduced to 50, before the top 20 entered the Teach & Win House. For 30 days, contestants underwent a bootcamp-style evaluation, with judges assessing classroom delivery, teaching methodology, innovation, adaptability, emotional intelligence, mentorship, creativity, and the use of technology in education.

Daily teaching challenges, surprise lessons, and masterclasses were scrutinised by some of Nigeria’s leading educationists. After successive elimination rounds and public voting, the competition narrowed to seven finalists. The grand finale, held before an audience of education leaders, corporate sponsors, media representatives, diplomats, and government officials, culminated in Oyedoyin being crowned Best Teacher in Nigeria 2024.

Speaking after receiving the award, Oyedoyin said, “This award is not just for me, but for every teacher who wakes up daily to change lives. I dedicate this win to my students, who are my reason for teaching, to CKA parents, friends, and most especially to my lovely family. To all teachers: our reward is no longer only in heaven. Keep doing your best, one day you will be celebrated.”

The top prize included ₦2.5 million in cash, a plot of land, and four professional certificates in Artificial Intelligence & Robotics, Chinese Language, Teaching & Mentoring, and CTTC Pedagogy. Second place went to Mirian Akande, who received ₦1.5 million and a land plot, while third place was awarded to Almojeed Abolaji, earning ₦1 million. Other contestants received ₦100,000 as consolation prizes.

Oyedoyin, a Genetics and Molecular Biology researcher, has previously been recognised among the world’s top 90 Cambridge Most Dedicated Teachers in 2023 and 2024. Known for mentoring young innovators, he recently won Best STEM Coach at the Conrad Innovation Challenge, where his students developed prototypes including automated harvesters, hydroponic yam vine seeds, and tissue culture models to promote zero hunger and food security (SDG 2).

A Microsoft Certified Educator, Oyedoyin has consistently delivered 100 per cent pass rates in Biology and science examinations and has led students to success in national and international competitions such as InterswitchSPAK, the Biology Olympiad, and the Conrad Challenge. Widely respected as a mentor, counsellor, and disciplinarian, Oyedoyin’s recognition at the Teach & Win show underscores his significant impact on education in Nigeria and beyond.