JAMB 2026: Secondary Schools That Produced the 1st-5th Outstanding Performers in 2026 UTME 

Every year, the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) showcases some of Nigeria's brightest students. The 2026 edition was no exception, producing exceptional candidates who demonstrated academic excellence while highlighting schools that continue to nurture high-performing students.

In this article, we will take a look at the secondary schools that produced the top-five performing candidates in the 2026 UTME and the lessons students can learn from their success.

2026 JAMB UTME at a Glance

The 2026 UTME recorded over 2.2 million candidates, making it one of the largest university entrance examinations in Africa. As usual, JAMB released the list of the highest-scoring candidates during its annual Policy Meeting on Admissions. 

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Schools That Produced Outstanding Performers in 2026 UTME 

Although JAMB does not publish an official nationwide ranking of secondary schools, several schools gained national recognition because of the exceptional performance of their students.

1. EFVP Wisdom Spring Model School

This school produced the 2026 JAMB UTME top scorer, identified as "Owoeye Daniella Jesudunshin." This achievement reinforces the school's reputation for academic excellence. 

Daniella scored 372 in the 2026 JAMB UTME out of 400.

2. Nigerian Tulip International Colleges (NTIC)

NTIC is a leading network of science-oriented crèche, primary, and secondary schools in Nigeria. 

In the 2026 UTME race, one of the school's students named Enwere Kingsley Ikenna scored 370, making him the 2nd top-scoring candidate of the 2026 UTME. 

However, the school recorded 60 of its students scoring 300+ in the 2026 UTME.

The school operates day and boarding campuses in Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Kaduna, and Yobe

3. Champions International Schools

CIS produced the 3rd highest top scorer in the 2026 UTME exercise.

The candidate's name is Bamisile Ayomide Emmanuel, and he scored 369, therefore reinforcing the school's reputation for academic excellence

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4.  Loyola Jesuit College, Abuja

Olabiyisi Olanrewaju Oluwatimileyin is a standout student from Loyola Jesuit College who emerged as one of the national top scorers in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

He achieved an exceptional score of 368 out of 400, which placed him tied for the 4th highest score nationwide in the 2026 examination. 

NOTE: 4 candidates from other schools also scored 368

5. Grundtvig International Secondary School, Anambra

One of the school's students, Michael Offorkile, scored 367, making him one of the top five candidates in Nigeria. This achievement reinforces the school's reputation for academic excellence. 

However, the school recorded 25% of its students who participated in the 2026 JAMB UTME scoring 300+

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What Made These Candidates Successful?

While every student's journey is unique, several common factors stand out:

• Consistent study habits throughout the year.

• Strong understanding of the JAMB syllabus.

• Regular CBT practice using past questions.

• Effective time management during examinations.

• Guidance from experienced teachers and mentors.

Interestingly, the overall highest scorer, Owoeye Daniella Jesudunsin, revealed that determination and disciplined self-study played a significant role in her outstanding performance. 

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Lessons for Prospective JAMB Candidates

Students preparing for future UTME examinations can learn valuable lessons from the 2026 top performers:

• Begin preparation early instead of cramming.

• Master the official JAMB syllabus.

• Practice with computer-based tests regularly.

• Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing answers.

• Build confidence through consistent revision.

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Final Thoughts

The 2026 JAMB UTME once again proved that excellence comes through preparation, discipline, and determination. Candidates like Owoeye Daniella Jesudunsin, Enwere Kingsley Ikenna, and Bamisile Ayomide Emmanuel have set inspiring standards for future applicants.

Likewise, schools that consistently produce outstanding students continue to demonstrate the importance of quality teaching, proper mentorship, and a learning environment that encourages academic excellence.

As Nigeria prepares for another admission cycle, the achievements recorded in the 2026 UTME serve as motivation for millions of students aiming to secure admission into their preferred tertiary institutions.