Union Bank of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting teachers and advancing education in Nigeria at the launch of the 12th edition of the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition.
The event, held in Lagos, brought together education stakeholders, teachers, and partners, including Nigerian Breweries Plc and the Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, to discuss strategies for improving learning outcomes across the country.
Speaking during a panel session, the Chief Brand and Marketing Officer of , Mrs. Olufunmilola Aluko, described education as a strategic investment critical to national development.
She said the bank views education as more than a corporate social responsibility initiative, stressing that investing in teachers and learners is essential for building a sustainable future.
Aluko highlighted Edu360, the bank's flagship education intervention under the UnionCares platform, as a key vehicle for driving educational development. According to her, the initiative focuses on expanding access to education in underserved communities, supporting teachers, promoting digital literacy and STEM education, and preparing young people for employment and entrepreneurship.
She also urged financial institutions to move beyond traditional philanthropy and play a more active role in strengthening the education ecosystem through financial literacy programmes, education-focused savings products, and collaboration with policymakers and educators.
Aluko noted that meaningful progress in the education sector requires sustained partnerships between the public and private sectors. She pointed to the competition's ₦100 million grand prize as evidence of the strong commitment being made to recognise and reward excellence in teaching.
According to her, the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition has, over its 12 editions, recognised more than 300 teachers across Nigeria, demonstrating the value of consistency in supporting the education sector.
Addressing teachers nationwide, she praised their contributions to society and encouraged them to continue their dedication to shaping future generations.
Union Bank said its participation in the programme aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education, and reflects the bank's broader commitment to social impact and sustainable development.
Established in 1917, is one of Nigeria's leading financial institutions, providing a wide range of banking services through more than 300 branches nationwide. The bank continues to focus on digital innovation and customer-centred banking solutions under its "Simpler, Smarter Banking" philosophy.