A lecturer in the Department of Business Education at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Dr Gabriel Alonta, has been named Best Male Lecturer of the Year by the Association of Technology and Vocational Education Students (AVOCEDS).
The honour was announced at the association’s maiden Award and Dinner Night, where students of the Faculty of Technology and Vocational Education voted to recognise lecturers who had distinguished themselves through teaching, mentorship and service.
Alonta emerged as the winner after receiving the highest number of votes among all nominated lecturers.
Unable to attend the ceremony due to a prior engagement, he received the award plaque in his office on July 8, 2026, from AVOCEDS President Comrade Paul Okoli and Director of Socials, Onyedikachi Chukwudi.
Reacting to the recognition, Alonta described it as one of the most meaningful honours a teacher could receive.
“Today, I write with a heart full of gratitude after being recognised as the Best Male Lecturer of the Year by the Association of Technology and Vocational Education Students, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka,” he said.
He dedicated the award to his students, describing it as a reminder of the importance of every lecture delivered, every word of encouragement shared and every effort made to support their academic and personal growth.
“This award belongs to all of us who continue to believe that education is ultimately about transforming lives,” he said.
Alonta also paid tribute to his colleagues in the faculty, saying they labour daily with a shared commitment to producing graduates who are academically sound, morally upright and professionally competent.
The award adds to an already impressive recognition record for the lecturer. In 2023, he received the Vice Chancellor’s Award as the Best Academic Staff of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
“Receiving this latest recognition directly from my students makes it even more special because it reflects the voices of those whose lives and futures remain the very essence of my calling as a teacher,” he said.
He commended AVOCEDS for the initiative, describing student-driven recognition of lecturers as a thoughtful way to strengthen the bond between teachers and students while encouraging higher standards of teaching and mentorship.
Digital Operations Manager at The Students Forum Nigeria.
