The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Lafia (FULafia), Professor Mohammed Isa Kida, has described the emergence of the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, as the 2026 Sun Minister of the Year as well deserved, saying the award is a fitting recognition of his commitment to repositioning Nigeria’s education sector.
Professor Kida gave the commendation on Sunday in Lafia, Nasarawa State, while speaking with journalists.
He described the award as recognition of the Minister’s outstanding performance, visionary leadership and dedication to transforming the education sector through strategic reforms, particularly the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI).
According to the Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Alausa has demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving the quality of education, strengthening learning outcomes and promoting skills development in line with the Federal Government’s education reform agenda.
He said: “This is a well deserved recognition of Dr. Tunji Alausa’s visionary leadership and selfless service towards repositioning Nigeria’s education sector to meet global standards and ensuring that every Nigerian child has access to quality education comparable to what obtains anywhere in the world, as mandated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Professor Kida noted that the Minister had consistently demonstrated a clear understanding of the challenges confronting the education sector and had brought exceptional leadership and strategic direction to addressing them.
“Indeed, this award is a perfect fit. The Education Minister has consistently demonstrated an understanding of the challenges facing the education sector and has applied exceptional leadership skills in managing the sector,” he said.
The FULafia Vice-Chancellor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Dr. Alausa as Minister of Education, describing him as a leader with a strong and unwavering passion for transforming all segments of the education sector.
He added that the recognition by The Sun newspaper, a reputable national daily, further affirmed the Minister’s visible contributions and achievements in the sector.
“For a reputable national newspaper like The Sun to select him for this award, it is clear that he is doing so much in the education sector. The Minister’s achievements are visible for everyone to see,” Professor Kida said.
Dr. Alausa received the prestigious award at the 2026 Sun Awards ceremony held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
While receiving the honour, the Minister described it as recognition of the collective efforts of the Federal Ministry of Education, its agencies, teachers, institutional leaders and development partners working together to improve the quality of education and expand learning opportunities for Nigerians.
