By By Micheal Chukwuebuka
ONITSHA — The Diocese on the Niger, Anambra State, honoured 58 JAMB candidates with Educational Merit awards on Monday, May 18, 2026, for scoring 270 and above in the recently concluded Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The candidates, drawn from various secondary schools owned by the diocese, gathered at the Bishop’s Court, GRA, Onitsha, alongside their parents and guardians to receive the awards. The lowest score among the recipients was 270, while the highest stood at 350.
The Diocesan, the Rt Rev Dr Owen Nwokolo, presented the merit award certificates with evident joy. He commended the students and urged them not to relent or take their success for granted.
“Dear students, your performance in the UTME is commendable, but it is only the beginning of a greater journey of academics and professionalism,” he said.
“The future will place greater demands on you. Your future studies will test not only your intellect but also your values. Your careers will test your integrity. Leadership opportunities will test your humility. The world will tempt you to compromise, but you must remain steadfast.
“Always remember that your identity is not merely in your intelligence but in your character. What you become in life will matter more than the certificates you have. We encourage you not only to invest in academic success but also in moral and spiritual formation.”
The Diocesan Educational Secretary, Rev Canon Chidi Nwadike, also delivered a two‑page address congratulating the students. He told the awardees: “Having a handshake with the bishop is simply to urge and remind you that we are looking forward to seeing you graduating with a first‑class degree and with good Christian values. The Almighty God who has begun this good work in your life will perfect all that concerns you in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
A 15‑minute seminar titled “Unlocking Greatness: Cultivating Excellence Through Integrity” was led by Rev Canon Dr Adindu Okpala, a priest in the diocese. Quoting Benjamin Franklin, he advised the students that “an investment in knowledge pays the best interest” and urged them to learn how to invest in their studies.
Around 400 people, including parents, guardians and friends of the students, attended the event, which concluded with group and private photographs taken with the bishop.
The 2026 edition marked the third year of the award ceremony since its inception.
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