LAGOS — Seven outstanding Nigerian students have received a combined N35 million under the maiden JAMB-Rite Foods National Academic Excellence Awards. The initiative, organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board in partnership with Rite Foods, was designed to recognise high-performing students entering Nigerian public universities. Each of the seven award recipients received N5 million. The students were selected from the six geopolitical zones, with the programme also recognising excellence among candidates supported through JAMB's Equal Opportunity initiative. The awards were presented at a ceremony in Lagos following the 2025 admission exercise. The organisers said the initiative was intended to move beyond the practice of celebrating high examination scores alone. Students were assessed using a combination of academic indicators, including their secondary-school results, Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination performance and post-UTME or institutional screening results. This approach places emphasis on the complete admission process rather than a single examination score. The award scheme also highlights the importance of recognising academic achievement among young Nigerians. Scholarships and financial awards can provide students with additional support as they begin university. For many students, the transition to higher education comes with new expenses, including accommodation, learning materials, transportation and other costs. Financial recognition can therefore provide meaningful assistance. The programme also creates an incentive for students to maintain strong academic performance. However, academic excellence should not be measured only through examination results. Universities increasingly require students to demonstrate problem-solving, communication and practical skills. A combination of academic and institutional assessment can provide a broader picture of a student's readiness for higher education. JAMB's involvement is significant because the board oversees admissions into tertiary institutions across the country. Its partnership with a private company demonstrates how public agencies and businesses can collaborate to support education. Private-sector investment can complement government funding and create additional opportunities for students. The award also draws attention to the importance of merit-based recognition. Transparent selection criteria are necessary to maintain public confidence in such programmes. Students and institutions need to understand how winners are chosen and what evidence is considered. The organisers said the award would be an annual initiative, creating the possibility of continued recognition for future cohorts. If sustained, such programmes could encourage other companies to invest in education. Nigeria's universities need both financial resources and strong human capital. Supporting high-performing students can contribute to the development of future professionals, researchers and entrepreneurs. At the same time, education policy must continue to address the needs of students who face financial or physical barriers to access. The broader objective should be an education system in which talent is identified and supported regardless of background. The JAMB-Rite Foods awards provide one example of how recognition and financial support can encourage academic achievement. For the seven recipients, the N5 million award offers an immediate benefit as they begin their university careers. For the wider education sector, the initiative demonstrates the potential value of partnerships that reward excellence and encourage young Nigerians to pursue academic achievement.