Dr Michael Taiwo, a US-based hydrogen expert, has announced a N1 million reward for three Nigerian students who won gold at the International STEM Olympiad in Rome. The students—Chimdiebube Onwubiko, Onyedikachi Egejurum, and Don Anele Munachimso—achieved top honors in the international competition, drawing attention from across the globe.
Reward Announced via Social Media
Dr Taiwo made his pledge public while reacting to a tweet by Alex Onyia, CEO of Educare, who sponsored the students' trip to Rome. Quoting Onyia's post, Dr Taiwo wrote on July 7: "This is an impressive achievement. Congratulations. I will be gifting these lads with 1M. Please DM me the bank details." The tweet quickly gained traction, with many Nigerians applauding the gesture.
Netizens Hail the Hydrogen Expert
Social media users widely commended Dr Taiwo for his financial support. @Nickbill01 said: "You are a great ambassador for education. You are always encouraging, always pushing people to believe in what good academic standing can do for their lives. God bless you sir." @BestGodfirst noted: "Not all Igbo billionaires support this, but they are quick to donate to olodos. God bless u for supporting greatness." @AnikeDanielC added: "Congratulations to them God bless you Dr. @AskMichaelTaiwo for your continued support to quality education in Nigeria and beyond."
Other reactions included @Egoasa: "God bless you abundantly. I’m glad their hard work paid off, they deserve it." @Dr_bettachris wrote: "Congratulations, Onyedikachi Egejurum, Don Anele Munachimso and Chimdiebube Onwubiko. The whole Nigerians are very proud of you. You have brought honour to Ndi Igbo worldwide." @EAA_247 said: "This is impressive. Congratulations to the boys, kudos to Alex and thanks to you, Michael. This is what we love to see." @jentlesammy added: "The Universe will reward u sir for recognising greatness! U will live long to enjoy ur own greatness."
Background: Sponsorship to Rome
Earlier, Alex Onyia had sponsored the three students to the International STEM Olympiad in Rome, covering all expenses including visas for the students and their teachers. In a tweet, Onyia explained that the students would represent Nigeria in the mathematics and science categories of the competition. Their gold-winning performance has made them a sensation on social media, with many celebrating their success as a source of national pride.
Dr Taiwo's reward is seen as a significant boost for the students, who have become role models for young Nigerians. The gesture underscores the growing support from the diaspora for educational excellence in Nigeria.
