International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of women’s achievements, advocating for gender equality, empowerment, and the breaking of barriers.
On March 11, 2025, renowned Nigerian chef, Hilda Baci, added a unique, heartwarming dimension to this celebration by honouring a teacher, Oluwamodupe, in Lagos with a generous cash gift of 500,000 Naira.
Dupe, a resident in the Bariga area of Lagos had left home as early as 7:00 a.m. as usual, to do what she loves, unknown to her that 500k is cooling somewhere waiting to be hers.
This gesture has since touched the hearts of Nigerians nationwide and highlighted the importance of supporting education and honoring hardworking individuals who dedicate their lives to shaping young minds.
A Heartfelt Gesture Of Appreciation
Hilda Baci, who rose to prominence with her exceptional culinary skills and her remarkable feat of setting a record for the longest cooking marathon in 2023, has continuously used her platform to inspire and uplift others.
However, on this occasion, she decided to go beyond the kitchen to make a tangible impact on society.
In a surprise visit, Hilda stormed a school in the mainland area of Lagos, to celebrate International Women’s Day.
It was a visit that would leave an indelible mark not just on the school, but on the hearts of every individual who witnessed the act of kindness.
As part of the celebrations, Hilda Baci joined the students in a unique event: the students had been asked to nominate their best teacher, someone who had positively impacted their lives and provided outstanding guidance.
The winner of this heartfelt nomination was selected by the students themselves – a true testament to the deep bond between students and educators.
In a powerful demonstration of appreciation, Hilda presented the chosen teacher with a generous cash gift of 500,000 Naira.
This sum, though a material offering, was symbolic of the immense respect and gratitude that students and the broader community felt toward this dedicated educator.
The entire moment was a profound celebration of teachers’ invaluable contributions to society and a reminder of the critical role they play in shaping future generations.
A Moment Of Empowerment And Recognition
This act of generosity during International Women’s Day was not just about the gift itself, but about the message it sent.
Teachers, especially women, are often the unsung heroes in our society.
They mold minds, instill values, and provide the foundation for tomorrow’s leaders.
Yet, they seldom receive the recognition and financial support they deserve.
By gifting the teacher 500K, Hilda Baci highlighted the importance of investing in education and uplifting those who dedicate their careers to it.
Furthermore, this initiative resonated deeply with the broader conversation around gender equality and empowerment.
Women, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria, face numerous challenges in their professional and personal lives.
By choosing to support a female teacher, Hilda underscored the importance of uplifting women who contribute positively to their communities.
A Ripple Of Positivity: Nigerians React
The news of Hilda’s generosity spread like wildfire across social media, with many Nigerians expressing their admiration for her gesture.
Social media users, educators, and other influential figures praised her for not just using her success to advance her career but also for making a tangible difference in the lives of others.
One Twitter user wrote: “This is the true essence of #IWD. Empowering others, especially women, and recognizing the hard work of those who impact lives. Hilda Baci is an inspiration!”
Another said: “Hilda Baci’s move to gift 500K to a teacher on IWD is what true empowerment looks like. Thank you for using your platform for good!”
The Impact Of This Gesture
What makes Hilda Baci’s act of kindness even more powerful is the ripple effect it could have on the educational community in Nigeria.
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By spotlighting the importance of teachers, especially women, she has ignited a conversation about the recognition and fair treatment of educators.
It is a wake-up call for society to reimagine how it values its teachers, providing them not just with accolades but with meaningful resources and support.
Moreover, the 500K cash gift is likely to serve as both an emotional and financial boost to the teacher, enabling them to continue their work with renewed vigor.
This kind of recognition sends a strong message: the work that teachers do matters, and society must find ways to show its appreciation beyond the classroom.
In the end, Hilda Baci’s celebration of International Women’s Day reminds us all that true empowerment comes from supporting, appreciating, and lifting each other up.
