By Opeyemi Adelakun
The highest-scoring candidate in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), Daniella Owoeye Jesudunsin, has received a ₦1 million scholarship in recognition of her exceptional academic performance.
The scholarship was presented by Ekiti Parapo in Indiana, United States, during a ceremony held in her honour, where family members, traditional rulers, community leaders and well-wishers gathered to celebrate her remarkable achievement.
Sharing her appreciation in a Facebook post, Owoeye described the event as a memorable occasion and expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support she received.
“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 reserved special appreciation for Ekiti Parapo in Indiana, USA, for the scholarship and other gestures of support.
“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, and I do not take any of it for granted,” she said.
The teenager also acknowledged the support of the Obaleo of Erinmope-Ekiti, Oba Dr Sunday Aikuirawo Aniyi Amoyimade Atayese I, the President of Ekiti Parapo, Hon. Awoniyi, her parents, relatives and other guests who attended the celebration.
“My heartfelt appreciation goes to His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr Sunday Aikuirawo Aniyi Amoyimade Atayese I, the Obaleo of Erinmope-Ekiti, Hon. Awoniyi, the President of Ekiti Parapo, my beloved parents and family members, and every well-wisher who took out time to honour me with their presence.
“Your prayers, encouragement, gifts, and expressions of love made the celebration truly memorable,” she added.
Owoeye prayed for everyone who contributed to her success and attended the event.
“I am deeply humbled by every act of kindness shown to me. May the Almighty God richly reward you all for your generosity and thoughtfulness.
“May joy, peace, divine favour, good health, and abundant blessings never depart from your homes. May you continually have reasons to celebrate, and may God’s grace and mercy remain with you always.
“Thank you once again for making the occasion a beautiful and unforgettable one. I remain sincerely grateful to every one of you. God bless you all abundantly,” she said.
Owoeye, an indigene of Erinmope-Ekiti in Moba Local Government Area of Ekiti State, emerged as the overall best candidate in the 2026 UTME after scoring 372 out of a possible 400 marks.
She recorded 98 in English Language, 98 in Chemistry, 94 in Physics and 82 in Biology. She is seeking admission to study Medicine and Surgery at the University of Lagos.
Speaking after her result was announced earlier, the 16-year-old attributed her outstanding performance to early preparation, consistency and strategic studying rather than prolonged reading hours.
She explained that she relied on past questions, computer-based test applications, online tutorials and study groups while deliberately working on areas where she needed improvement throughout her preparation.
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