Sixteen-year-old Daniella Owoeye Jesudunsin, who emerged as the overall best candidate in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), has been awarded a ₦1 million scholarship by Ekiti Parapo in Indiana, USA. The scholarship recognizes her exceptional academic performance after she scored 372 out of 400 in the examination.
Scholarship announcement and gratitude
Daniella shared the news on her Facebook page on Wednesday, expressing profound gratitude to the association for honouring her. She said, "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 her parents, traditional rulers, and everyone who celebrated her success.
The aspiring medical student hopes to study Medicine and Surgery at the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Her subject scores were impressive: 98 in English Language, 98 in Chemistry, 94 in Physics, and 82 in Biology. Daniella, who is from Erinmope-Ekiti in Moba Local Government Area of Ekiti State, sat for the examination in Ogun State.
Study strategy and acknowledgments
Daniella attributed her high scores to early preparation, focusing on weaker subjects, and mastering past questions via CBT practice apps. She emphasized that success came from studying smart rather than reading endlessly. She specifically thanked the Ekiti Parapo in Indiana for recognizing her hard work and encouraging her to aim higher.
She also acknowledged the Obaleo of Erinmope-Ekiti, Oba Dr Sunday Aikuirawo Aniyi Amoyimade Atayese I, and the President of Ekiti Parapo, Hon. Awoniyi, along with her parents and relatives. "Your prayers, encouragement, gifts, and expressions of love made the celebration truly memorable," she added.
Community impact and future plans
Daniella prayed for everyone who supported her journey, saying, "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." Her story has inspired many Nigerians, with social media users congratulating her and calling for more organizations to reward academic excellence.
With near-perfect scores in English, Chemistry, and Physics, Daniella is now seeking admission to study Medicine and Surgery at UNILAG. She continues to serve as a role model for students across the country.
