For prospective undergraduates, the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is the “be-all and end-all” after the travails of secondary education.
As reactions continue to trail the abysmal performance recorded in the 2025 UTME, there is a need to revisit history and highlight the states that have consistently produced the best results in the examination.
Below are the Nigerian states with the best UTME results within the last few years:
Anambra
This should come as no surprise to those who have followed the education trends: Anambra State is known for topping the charts, with candidates like Maduafokwa Egoagwuagu Agnes with 365/400 in 2020 and Umeh Nkechinyere scoring 360/400 in 2023.
The state’s strong secondary education system has been credited for the achievement.
Imo
Top performers have also come out of Imo: candidates like Ekele Franklin (2019, 347/400) lend credence to this.
The state is frequently mentioned when it comes to high-quality candidates due to its robust educational standards.
Osun
This southwestern state has produced Oluwafemi Ositade, credited with a score of 358/400 in 2023, and Isaac Olamide (345/400 in 2019).
The performance of both candidates shows consistent educational output.
Abia
In 2019, Emmanuel Chidebube had a score of 346/400, a testament to Abia State’s academic excellence in UTME results.
Lagos
Lagos State is known for high scorers like Monwuba Chibuzor Chibuikem, who got 358/400 in 2021.
Among the contributing factors is its urban educational infrastructure and access to resources.