Celebrated Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has shared a heartwarming moment from her recent visit to Nsukka, reconnecting with her kindergarten teacher, Mr. Raphael Idoko, 43 years after he first taught her.
In a nostalgic reflection, Adichie recounted how, in 1982, as a five-year-old, she found joy and confidence in Mr. Idoko’s classroom—an environment shaped by his patience, kindness, and encouragement. She revealed he fondly recalled her early leadership tendencies, joking about how she often “took over” the class before lessons began.
Sliding through her post, fans saw a priceless gem: his handwritten comment on her kindergarten report card, a testament to the formative role he played. Adichie also honored other educators who shaped her journey, including Mrs. Kalu, Mrs. Chukwudebelu, and Mr. Achilike.
“A good teacher is a lifelong star,” she wrote, urging Nigerians to “give bouquets to beloved teachers” whose dedication continues to shape futures long after the classroom walls fade from memory.
