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From Tony Osauzo, Benin
The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa, has rewarded Daniel Osagiobare, an outstanding Edo-born student who emerged as the highest scorer in the South-South geopolitical zone and fourth overall in Nigeria in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) with a cash gift of N1 million.
Osagiobare, who scored an impressive 368 in the highly competitive examination conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) was received by the Deputy Governor at his office in Benin City, who commended his exceptional academic feat and described him as a worthy ambassador of Edo State.
Speaking during the reception, the Deputy Governor said the remarkable achievement had brought pride and honour to Edo State, noting that the young scholar’s brilliance, discipline and determination reflected the limitless potential of Edo youths when provided with the right support and encouragement.
He stated that the N1 million cash reward was in recognition of Osagiobare’s hard work and as a deliberate effort to inspire other students across the state to pursue academic excellence.
Idahosa reaffirmed the commitment of the Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration to promote quality education and create an enabling environment, where talented young people could thrive and compete favourably at both national and international levels.
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“The future of our nation lies in the hands of brilliant young minds like Daniel. His outstanding performance has not only made his family proud but has also placed Edo State in the national spotlight for excellence. We will continue to celebrate and encourage excellence in every sector,” he said.
The Deputy Governor urged the student to remain focused, humble and committed to his academic aspirations, assuring him that the Edo State Government would continue to identify and support exceptional talents capable of contributing meaningfully to the state’s development.
Responding, Osagiobare thanked the Deputy Governor for the warm reception and generous financial support.
He described the recognition as a life-changing moment and pledged to remain committed to academic excellence while striving to justify the confidence reposed in him.
The student’s father, Mr. Christopher Osagiobare, who accompanied him on the visit, also thanked the Deputy Governor for celebrating his son’s achievement, saying the gesture would serve as a source of motivation for him and other young Nigerians aspiring to attain academic distinction.
The event underscored the Edo State Government’s resolve to reward excellence and encourage young people to embrace education as a pathway to personal success and national development.
