Edo deputy governor gifts N1 million to Nigeria’s fourth-best UTME candidate

Master Daniel Osagiobare, an Edo-born student who achieved the fourth-highest score nationwide in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), has been recognized with a N1 million cash gift from the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa.

Osagiobare, who secured an impressive 368 marks, was celebrated by Idahosa at his office in Benin City. The deputy governor lauded the student's academic achievement, describing him as a "worthy ambassador" for Edo State and highlighting his brilliance, discipline, and determination as representative of the potential within Edo's youth when properly supported.

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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.

The N1 million reward is intended not only to acknowledge Osagiobare's hard work but also to serve as a catalyst, inspiring other students across Edo State to strive for academic excellence. Idahosa reaffirmed the commitment of the Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration to fostering quality education and creating an environment where young talents can flourish nationally and internationally.

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We will continue to celebrate and encourage excellence in every sector. And the N1 million is part of efforts to do that.

"The future of our nation lies in the hands of brilliant young minds like Daniel," Idahosa stated, emphasizing that Osagiobare's performance has brought pride to his family and placed Edo State in the national spotlight. He assured that the state government would continue to identify and support exceptional talents contributing to the state's development.

Osagiobare expressed his gratitude for the recognition and financial support, calling it a "life-changing moment." His father, Christopher Osagiobare, also thanked the deputy governor, noting that the gesture would motivate his son and other aspiring Nigerian students. The event underscores the Edo State Government's dedication to rewarding excellence and promoting education as a path to personal success and national progress.

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The recognition is a life-changing moment and pledged to remain committed to academic excellence while striving to justify the confidence reposed in him.