The highest-scoring candidate in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), Daniella Owoeye Jesundunsin, has been awarded a ₦1 million scholarship in recognition of her outstanding academic achievement.
Daniella Owoeye Jesudunsin, the highest-scoring candidate in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), has been awarded a ₦1 million scholarship in recognition of her outstanding academic achievement.
The scholarship was presented by Ekiti Parapo in Indiana, USA, following Daniella’s exceptional score of 372 out of 400, the highest recorded in the 2026 UTME.
The 16-year-old, who hails from Erinmope-Ekiti in Moba Local Government Area of Ekiti State, is seeking admission to study Medicine and Surgery at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Sharing the news on her Facebook page, Daniella expressed heartfelt appreciation to the donors, her family, traditional rulers, friends, and well-wishers for celebrating her achievement.
“It was truly a memorable and heartwarming moment to be celebrated and surrounded by the love of family, friends, and well-wishers. My heart is filled with profound gratitude,” she wrote.
She specifically thanked Ekiti Parapo in Indiana for recognising her hard work and encouraging her to strive for greater heights.
“I sincerely appreciate the Ekiti Parapo in Indiana, USA, for their exceptional care, generosity, and immeasurable love. Your kindness, support, and warm hospitality made the occasion even more special,” she said.
Daniella also acknowledged the Obaleo of Erinmope-Ekiti, Oba Dr. Sunday Aikuirawo Aniyi Amoyimade Atayese I, the President of Ekiti Parapo, Hon. Awoniyi, her parents, relatives, and all those who attended the celebration.
She prayed for God’s blessings upon everyone who supported her academic journey, describing their encouragement and generosity as unforgettable.
Daniella scored 98 in English Language, 98 in Chemistry, 94 in Physics, and 82 in Biology, earning a total score of 372 to emerge as the nation’s best-performing UTME candidate.
Speaking on the secret behind her success, she said her achievement was not the result of studying endlessly but of early preparation, consistency, strategic learning, and regular practice with past questions, CBT applications, online tutorials, and study groups.
Her outstanding performance has continued to attract praise and support from individuals and organisations, with many describing her achievement as an inspiration to students across Nigeria.
