UTME top scorer: I read for six hours every day after JAMB classes.

Could you give a quick overview of your background?

I’m twenty years old. I received my diploma from Festac’s St. Jude’s Private School.

What do you believe helped you achieve your success as the top scorer in Nigeria’s 2025 UTME? What did you do that resulted in a score of 375?

I did, however, make sure to study regularly. I went over my school notes and textbooks as well as the UTME classes I took. Achievers Educator Academy, the tutorial center where I was enrolled, was a huge help.

I could practice every week because of their resources, which included CBT (computer-based test) systems. Additionally, I worked on UTME past questions every day. I began my preparations early and studied consistently.

How did you go about your reading routine?

I used to read from about 4 to 10 p.m. after my UTME classes. I used that time to review my notes, rehearse questions, and confirm that I understood every subject. I wasn’t merely studying. Yes, I read nearly every day from 4 to 10 p.m., and I desired to fully comprehend topics.

Did you read at other times besides the 4–10 p.m. time slot, particularly for reviewing your notes?

Indeed, I did. I normally read a little before my classes started in the mornings.

You previously attended a university. Could you explain that to me? Do you believe that spending a year or so at that university helped you succeed in any way?

No, I don’t believe that. Yes, I was accepted to study medicine and surgery at the University of Nigeria in Nsukka in 2021. However, I eventually lost interest in the course, and my academic performance began to suffer as a result.

I eventually came to the realization that mathematics and physics were my genuine loves, and I made the decision to leave college in 2024. I wouldn’t argue that my achievement on the UTME was influenced by that experience.

If physics and math were your passions, why did you initially decide to study medicine?

Well, I liked the notion of being a doctor at the time. I believed that was what I desired. However, as I progressed through the curriculum, my interest began to wane. I came to the realization that medicine wasn’t for me. I therefore made the decision to withdraw after giving it some serious thought and speaking with my parents.

Which course do you intend to enroll in right now?

I intend to get a degree in mechanical engineering.

How will you maintain your motivation and make sure you win without becoming disinterested again?

Physics and mathematics, two disciplines I’m naturally fascinated by, are the foundation of mechanical engineering. It’s like a language that I like and can understand. I’m confident that I’ll remain engaged and dedicated only based on that. Yes, I’m prepared to work harder this time around in order to succeed.

What tips would you provide other students to help them do well on the UTME?

They should first go to a decent tutoring center, such as the one I went to, which is genuinely effective. Mine was really beneficial. They should also be consistent and begin planning early.

Don’t start studying a few weeks before the test. Instead of just memorizing answers, concentrate on comprehending the subjects.

Additionally, they had to utilize the JAMB-recommended textbooks and previous UTME questions. Since I started early, I had enough time to comprehend the UTME program in its entirety. At my tutorial center, I also constantly practiced using CBTs, which allowed me to monitor my development.

You’ve made multiple references to your tutorial center. Do you genuinely believe that tutoring centers are crucial for UTME applicants?

Of course! The ICAN offshoot, called Achievers Educator Academy, is the one I went to. Tutorial centers are crucial, in my opinion, particularly if you’re not enrolled in a traditional school right now.

There could be a number of reasons why some people claim that even after attending tutorials, they still performed poorly. Perhaps the student didn’t work hard enough, or maybe the tutorial wasn’t very good.

My tutorial center had a significant impact on me. They gave us excellent teaching, regular CBT practice, and high-quality materials. It greatly aided me by providing me with an organized study atmosphere.

You’re getting ready to enroll at the University of Lagos after previously attending UNN, and you’ve worked at a tutorial center. What steps should the government take, in your opinion, to improve the viability and accessibility of education for Nigerian students in light of all of these factors?

The lack of experiential, hands-on learning, particularly in scientific and technical sectors, is a significant problem that I believe the government should solve. Although theory is the main focus of many schools, students rarely have the chance to work with actual tools, equipment, or real-world projects. Our ability to comprehend and apply what we are taught is impacted by that gap.

The curriculum is another crucial aspect. It should be upgraded, in my opinion, to meet the needs of the contemporary industry. More creativity, problem-solving, and digital skills must be incorporated into the curriculum.

These are crucial for getting pupils ready for the workforce and the modern world. Nigerian education will gain greater significance, and students will be better prepared to contribute to the country’s growth if these issues are resolved.

Additionally, there was a dispute over your state of origin between Lagos State and Anambra State, which led to some uncertainty when you registered for the UTME. Would you mind explaining that, particularly so that JAMB knows it wasn’t done dishonestly?

Yes, I want to make it clear. My birthplace is Njikoka Local Government Area in Anambra State. However, I think the registration operator entered Lagos, where I live, as my state of origin by mistake when I registered for JAMB for the first time in 2021.

I tried to fix it right away before the test when I saw that Lagos State was listed rather than Anambra State. I visited the JAMB headquarters in Anthony, Lagos, with my father.

The correction was not made even after they directed us to the JAMB headquarters in Ikoyi. Even after visiting the JAMB office in Anambra State, my dad was unable to address the matter.