Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has pledged to support the higher education of Master Michael Offorkaile, an Abia indigene who emerged as one of Nigeria’s top performers in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), in a move aimed at rewarding academic excellence and encouraging outstanding students across the country.
The governor made the commitment while receiving the student, his parents and the management of Grundtvig International Secondary School, Oba, Anambra State, at the Government House in Umuahia. Offorkaile scored 367 in the 2026 UTME, placing him among the nation’s highest-ranking candidates.
Commending the student’s exceptional performance, Otti described academic excellence as an achievement deserving of recognition and government support. He said his administration remains committed to celebrating individuals who distinguish themselves through hard work and merit, adding that outstanding performances should inspire younger learners to strive for similar success.
To ensure the promise is fulfilled, the governor directed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education to develop an appropriate support package for the student, while also instructing his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication to liaise with the family on the necessary arrangements.
Otti noted that success in the UTME marks only the beginning of a student’s academic journey and urged Offorkaile to maintain the same level of commitment throughout his university education. He expressed confidence that the recognition would motivate the student to achieve even greater milestones in the future.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education disclosed that the governor had specifically directed the ministry to identify and honour the high-performing student as part of efforts to promote excellence in education across the state.
The student’s father, Odinaka Offorkaile, and the Principal of Grundtvig International Secondary School, Mr. Ige Bello, described the achievement as a reflection of years of discipline, consistency and academic dedication. They commended the Abia State Government for recognising scholastic excellence and encouraging talented young Nigerians.
Responding, Michael Offorkaile expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for the recognition and educational support, promising to remain focused on his studies and continue inspiring students within Abia State and beyond through academic excellence.
