The Federal Government and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) have commended Rite Foods Limited for awarding ₦35 million in scholarships to seven outstanding candidates in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The scholarships, presented at a ceremony in Lagos, were awarded to the highest-performing candidates across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, along with a beneficiary from the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group, under the Rite Foods National Academic Excellence Awards.
Representing the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, his Special Adviser, Dr. Ismaila Adiatu, praised the initiative, describing it as a shining example of how indigenous companies can drive national development through strategic investment in education.
He commended the Managing Director/CEO of Rite Foods, Seleem Adegunwa, for demonstrating that Nigerian brands can compete globally while making meaningful contributions to human capital development.
“This initiative reflects a deep commitment to nurturing young talents and supporting the future of our nation through education,” he said.
Also speaking, JAMB Registrar, Ishaq Oloyede, described the scholarship programme as commendable and worthy of emulation, noting that it highlights the critical role of the private sector in complementing government efforts in the education sector.
“This partnership demonstrates how corporate organisations can contribute meaningfully to educational advancement. Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders, and this investment is a step toward a brighter future for Nigeria,” Oloyede stated.
Each beneficiary received ₦5 million, with recipients drawn from across the country:
South-West: Okeke Chinedu Christian (Mechanical Engineering, University of Lagos)
North-Central: Orzekor Aondohemba Godwin (Software Engineering, FUT Minna)
South-East: Joshua David Chidiebere (Software Engineering, FUTO)
South-South: James Edidiong Victor (Medicine and Surgery, University of Uyo)
North-East: Vincent Daniel (Medicine and Surgery, University of Maiduguri)
North-West: Luka Francis Miendwas (Software Engineering, Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia)
JAMB Equal Opportunity Group: Ogunsua-Dixon Tijesuni Michelle (Mass Communication, University of Lagos)
In his remarks, Adegunwa reaffirmed Rite Foods’ commitment to youth development and nation-building, emphasizing that education remains a cornerstone of sustainable growth.
“At Rite Foods, we believe the quality of our young people will define Nigeria’s future. This initiative is not just about scholarships—it is about inspiring ambition, rewarding excellence, and empowering the next generation,” he said.
He further explained that the programme aligns with the company’s sustainability agenda, which focuses on Education, Youth Empowerment, Environmental Stewardship, and Community Development.
Responding on performances by music stars Kingdom Kroseide and Victory Gbakara, reinforcing Rite Foods’ broader commitment to talent discovery and youth empowerment.
Through initiatives like the National Academic Excellence Awards, Rite Foods continues to position itself as a leading corporate supporter of education, innovation, and youth development in Nigeria. behalf of the beneficiaries, the top scorer, Okeke Chinedu Christian, expressed gratitude, describing the scholarship as a major boost to his academic journey.
The event also featured
