Lagos: Master Rhema Ugwuede, the highest scorer in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination at King’s College, Lagos, has revealed that his preparation for the examination was rooted in determination, discipline, and consistency. The SS3 student achieved an impressive score of 363 in the exam, sharing his insights and experiences in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ugwuede, who also serves as the school’s Captain, scored 72 marks in English Language, 98 in Mathematics, 98 in Physics, and 95 in Chemistry. He explained that his preparation was driven by a personal target rather than a spirit of competition, highlighting the importance of steady study, sacrifices, and focus in building his confidence ahead of the examination.
Ugwuede expressed that his remarkable performance brought both joy and disbelief. He described the night of the results as sleepless, filled with jubilant celebrations with his family. Although he had hoped for positive results, the outcome surpassed his expectations, prompting him to express gratitude to God for his performance.
He credited his family, teachers, and friends for their unwavering support during his preparation period. His parents created a conducive environment at home by reducing his chores and ensuring he had everything he needed, while his siblings encouraged him. Friends and teachers played significant roles in maintaining his motivation.
Now, Ugwuede is focused on excelling in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination and pursuing his dream course, Systems Engineering, at the University of Lagos. He advised fellow students to aim high, maintain focus, and remain consistent, emphasizing that success requires discipline, patience, and determination.
Ugwuede also expressed concern about the decline in the reading culture among students, stressing the need for stronger measures to curb examination malpractice and promote true success through hard work.