By Ozioruva Aliu

BENIN CITY – THE Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon Dennis Idahosa, on Wednesday received the best Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in South-South and the 4th in Nigeria, Master Daniel Osagiobare and rewarded him with a cash gift of one million naira.

Master Osagiobare scored 368 in the highly competitive examination conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and was received by Idahosa, who commended his exceptional academic feat and described him as a worthy ambassador of Edo State.

Speaking during the reception, the Deputy Governor said the remarkable achievement had brought pride and honour to Edo State, noting that the young scholar’s brilliance, discipline and determination reflected the limitless potential of Edo youths when provided with the right support and encouragement.

In a statement by Idahosa’s Press Secretary, Friday Aghedo, the deputy governor stated that the N1 million cash reward was in recognition of Osagiobare’s hard work and as a deliberate effort to inspire other students across the state to pursue academic excellence.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration to promoting quality education and creating an enabling environment where talented young people can thrive and compete favourably at both national and international levels.

“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,” the Deputy Governor said.

Idahosa urged the student 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 capable of contributing meaningfully to the state’s development.

Responding, Master Osagiobare expressed profound appreciation to the Deputy Governor for the warm reception and generous financial support.

He described the recognition as a life-changing moment and pledged to remain committed to academic excellence while striving to justify the confidence reposed in him.

The student’s father, Mr. Christopher Osagiobare, who accompanied him on the visit, also thanked the Deputy Governor for celebrating his son’s achievement, saying the gesture would serve as a source of motivation for him and other young Nigerians aspiring to attain academic distinction.