Thirty-four students sponsored by philanthropist Hon Femi Onireti in the 2025 UTME examinations have achieved impressive scores of 200 and above, with 19-year-old Olarinde Love Olayemi emerging as the highest scorer at 326 marks.
The results come seven months after Onireti funded Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) forms for 100 indigent students across Ogbomoso’s five local government areas. Three other beneficiaries scored above 300, while thirty candidates secured between 200 and 299.
In an exclusive statement to Oyo Affairs, Onireti expressed delight at the outcomes:
“This performance validates our belief in Ogbomoso’s brilliant youth. When we invested in these 100 students, we saw raw potential. Today, 34% have proven that with opportunity comes excellence.”
The businessman confirmed that all high-achievers will receive financial support for tertiary education: “From tuition to accommodation, we’ll ensure these scholars face no barriers in pursuing their academic dreams.”
Top performer Olarinde, a science student from Ogbomoso South, described the relief of secured sponsorship:
“Mr. Onireti’s intervention lifted a huge burden. My 326 score is just the beginning – I’m now focused on studying Medicine at the University of Ibadan without financial worries.”
Education analyst Dr. Adeola Folarin praised the initiative: “Private sponsorships like this directly address Nigeria’s 38% tertiary enrollment gap. When stakeholders invest in assessment fees, we remove the first hurdle to quality education.”
With admission processes ongoing, Onireti confirmed his team will provide application guidance to beneficiaries through the Ogbomoso Educational Advancement Initiative, his pet project launched in 2022.