Owoeye Daniella Jesudunsin, the 16-year-old who achieved the highest score in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), has been awarded a N1 million scholarship by the Ekiti Parapo Association of Indiana, USA. The cash prize was presented at a ceremony held in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State.
Daniella's Record-Breaking UTME Performance
Daniella made history earlier this year by scoring an outstanding 372 out of 400 marks in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams, making her the overall best candidate in Nigeria. Her achievement captured national attention and has now been recognized with a significant financial award to support her educational aspirations.
Scholarship Presentation Ceremony
The N1 million scholarship cheque was officially handed over to Daniella in Ado-Ekiti by Deacon Abiodun Falodun, president of the Ekiti Parapo Association of Indiana, USA. The event was attended by family, friends, well-wishers, and dignitaries, including His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Sunday Aikuirawo Aniyi Amoyimade Atayese I, the Obaleo of Erinmope-Ekiti, and Hon. Awoniyi.
Daniella's Gratitude and Future Plans
Daniella, who aims to study Medicine and Surgery at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), took to her Facebook page to express her profound gratitude. She wrote: "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 also thanked the Ekiti Parapo Association, stating, "I sincerely appreciate the Ekiti Parapo in Indiana, USA, for their exceptional care, generosity, and immeasurable love."
In her post, Daniella extended appreciation to all who attended or supported her: "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."
Message to Future JAMB Candidates
In a separate Facebook post on June 17, Daniella advised candidates preparing for the 2027 UTME to start their preparations early and avoid last-minute cramming. She emphasized the importance of consistent study and dedication to achieve success in the examination.
The Ekiti Parapo Association of Indiana, USA, is a diaspora organization committed to supporting educational initiatives and community development in Ekiti State. Their scholarship for Daniella underscores their dedication to rewarding academic excellence and investing in the future of young Nigerians.
