Nigeria’s Minister of Education has been named Most Innovative Cabinet Minister of the Year (2025) at the Silver Jubilee Awards organised by Independent Newspapers Limited in Lagos.
Reacting to the recognition, the Minister described the award as a reflection of collective efforts within the education sector rather than a personal achievement.
According to him, the honour underscores ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning education in Nigeria through strategic policies and targeted interventions.
He highlighted key initiatives introduced under his leadership, including the strengthening of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), the expansion of STEMM education, and the rollout of the Student Venture Capital Grant designed to support innovation among students.
Other reforms mentioned include the establishment of the Nigerian Education Data Infrastructure (NEDI) and the expansion of the Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF), both aimed at improving data-driven planning and enhancing staff welfare in higher institutions.
The Minister also pointed to recent engagements with the Academic Staff Union of Universities, noting that efforts to stabilise the university system have resulted in a landmark agreement with the union.
He attributed the progress recorded so far to a coordinated “one-government” approach, which involves collaboration across ministries, agencies, and subnational governments.
These reforms, he said, are part of the broader Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative being implemented under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
While acknowledging the progress made, the Minister noted that more work remains, adding that efforts will continue to ensure sustained improvements across all levels of the education system.
For The Nigeria Education News, the recognition highlights growing attention on innovation-driven reforms as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its education sector and align it with global standards.
