2026 JAMB: Full List of Best UTME Candidates for the Past 12 years Emerge
- Over the past twelve years, JAMB had celebrated outstanding UTME performances, with top scorers becoming symbols of academic excellence across Nigeria
- In 2025, however, the examination cycle was overshadowed by controversy, as mass failure and technical glitches sparked widespread dissatisfaction among candidates
- The board’s admission of errors and the rescheduling of nearly 380,000 candidates marked a sharp contrast to the inspiring achievements of past UTME champions
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has long celebrated excellence in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
For twelve years, top scorers have set remarkable standards, inspiring students nationwide.
According to Tribune, the 2025 UTME cycle has been overshadowed by controversy, with mass failure and technical glitches sparking widespread dissatisfaction.
Tribune Online reported that JAMB admitted to errors in the examination process. On May 14, 2025, Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede expressed regret, saying, “What should have been a moment of joy has changed due to one or two errors.” The board confirmed that 379,997 candidates would retake the exam due to non-compliance at certain centres.
With over 1.5 million candidates scoring below 200 marks and only 0.63% achieving 300 and above, the development has triggered threats of legal action.
Against this backdrop, here is a look back at the outstanding UTME achievers who defined academic excellence in previous years.
2024 UTME Top Scorers
• Olowu Joseph Oluwasijibomi – Score: 367
• Alayande David – Score: 367
• Orukpe Joel Ehijele – Score: 367
2023 UTME Top Scorer
• Umeh Kamsiyochukwu Nkechinyere – Score: 360
2022 UTME Top Scorer
• Adebayo Eyimofe Oluwatofunmi – Score: 362
2021 UTME Top Scorer
• Monwuba Chibuzo Chibuikem – Score: 358
2020 UTME Top Scorer
• Maduafokwa Egoagwuagwu Agnes – Score: 365
2019 UTME Top Scorer
• Ezeunala Ekene Franklin – Score: 347
2018 UTME Top Scorer
• Galadima Israel Zakari – Score: 364
2017 UTME Top Scorer
• Akingbulugbe Precious Ayomide – Score: 353
2016 UTME Top Scorers
• Akenbor Adesuwa Osarugue – Score: 359
• Anonye Victory Emenike – Score: 359
2015 UTME Top Scorer
• Ilukwe Lottachukwu Geraldine – Score: 332
2014 UTME Top Scorer
• Onomejoh Princewill – Score: 299
2013 UTME Top Scorer
• Olise Israel Chukwunalu – Score: 299
While the 2025 UTME cycle has been marked by setbacks and controversy, the legacy of past top scorers remains a beacon of hope.
Their achievements continue to inspire students across Nigeria, reminding candidates that excellence is possible even in challenging circumstances.
Source: Twitter
JAMB 2026: List of educational mobile apps You can use to prepare for UTME
Legit.ng earlier reported that the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has long been a hurdle for many Nigerian students.
Weak academic foundations, computer illiteracy, complex syllabi, exam anxiety, and poor time management have all contributed to the struggle. In response, EdTech apps have emerged as digital tutors, offering practical solutions to help students prepare more effectively and boost their confidence.
Class54 was reported to use artificial intelligence to guide students through their mistakes. When a question was answered incorrectly, the app provided a step-by-step explanation of the right answer. It also featured a smart voice function that read lessons aloud, allowing students to rest their eyes while continuing to learn.
Source: Legit.ng
