The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa, has rewarded Master Daniel Osagiobare, an Edo-born student who scored 368 in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, with a cash gift of N1 million.
Osagiobare emerged as the highest scorer in the South-South geopolitical zone and finished fourth overall in Nigeria in the 2026 JAMB examination.
He was received by the deputy governor at his office in Benin City on Wednesday, where Idahosa praised his achievement and described him as a worthy ambassador of Edo State.
The deputy governor said the cash reward was a deliberate effort to celebrate hard work and inspire other students across the state to pursue academic excellence.
“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. And the N1 million is part of efforts to do that,” Idahosa said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration to promoting quality education and creating an environment where talented young people can thrive and compete at both national and international levels.
Idahosa urged Osagiobare 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.
Responding, Osagiobare expressed gratitude for the warm reception and financial support, describing the recognition as a life-changing moment. He pledged to remain committed to academic excellence and to justify the confidence placed in him.
His father, Christopher Osagiobare, who accompanied him on the visit, also thanked the deputy governor, saying the gesture would serve as motivation for his son and other young Nigerians aspiring to academic distinction.
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