A student from Ebonyi State has landed a University scholarship from Minister of Works Senator David Umahi after recording a score of 356 in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), making him the highest scoring UTME candidate in the state.

Obasi Victor Nnanna, a member of the pioneer graduating class of King David Gifted Academy in Abakaliki, scored 98 in Mathematics, 98 in Physics, 91 in Chemistry and 69 in English Language, placing him among the top performers nationwide.

Umahi announced the scholarship shortly after receiving news of Nnanna's performance from the management of King David Gifted Academy, the institution he established in 2016 during his tenure as Governor of Ebonyi State. The school was founded to promote academic excellence and nurture future leaders through quality education.

Principal of King David Gifted Academy, Rev. Sis. Dr. Onyeukwu Veronica E., described Nnanna's performance as the product of years of dedication, consistency and commitment to learning. She disclosed that the student maintained cumulative averages of not less than 95% every academic term and consistently emerged first in his class from Junior Secondary School One through Senior Secondary School Three.

"Obasi Victor Nnanna is an exceptionally brilliant student whose commitment to excellence has remained consistent over the years. His achievement in the 2026 UTME is a testament to his hard work, discipline and passion for learning," she stated.

The principal added that Nnanna represented the school in several local and national academic competitions, winning numerous awards and distinctions throughout his secondary education.

Beyond academics, Nnanna served as Senior Prefect of the school and holds the position of Speaker of the Ebonyi State Children's Parliament, a distinction school authorities described as reflecting his outstanding leadership qualities.

Education stakeholders have applauded the scholarship award, describing it as a fitting reward for hard work, discipline and academic excellence. The principal noted that Nnanna's success has become a source of inspiration to students within the school and across Ebonyi State.