Imo Students Emerge World Champions at International STEM Olympiad
Nigeria has recorded a major milestone in global education after two students from Imo State emerged as the world’s best in Science and Primary Mathematics at the 2026 International STEM Olympiad Grand Finale in Rome, Italy, outperforming contestants from 154 countries.
Anele Munachimso, 17, was crowned the world’s best in Science after winning gold medals in both Science and Mathematics, while 11-year-old Egejurum Onyedikachi secured the gold medal in the Primary Mathematics category to become the world’s best primary school mathematician.
A third Nigerian participant, Onwubiko Chimdiebube, also claimed a gold medal in Mathematics, completing a historic outing for Team Nigeria at the competition, which was held from July 2 to July 8, 2026.
The three students represented Nigeria after qualifying through the 2026 South East Mathematics Olympiad, where they emerged among the best performers from more than 11,500 participants across the South-East.
Their qualification earned them sponsorship to compete at the global finals in Rome.
Munachimso, who had earlier been recognised as Nigeria’s best IGCSE Chemistry student, reinforced his reputation by clinching two gold medals and finishing as the overall world champion in Science.
Education advocate Alex Onyia, who sponsored the students’ participation, celebrated the achievement in a post on X, writing: “More good news.”
“Anele Munachimso also won gold in Science.”
“He is the best in world science.”
“Remember, he is the best in IGCSE Chemistry in Nigeria.”
“The investment is worth it.”
Onyedikachi, a Primary 6 pupil from Imo State, also impressed judges with his performance, earning the highest honour in the Primary Mathematics category despite competing against pupils from around the world.
Reacting to the victory, Onyia wrote: “Onyedikachi Egejurum got a Gold.”
“He is the best in Mathematics in the world Primary Category.”
“This is the beginning of greatness for the country.”
Before the award ceremony, Onyia had expressed confidence in the youngster’s abilities, stating: “Adrenaline is pumping.”
“Onyedikachi Egejurum is ready for the award ceremony for the International STEM Olympiad Rome today.”
“I pray he gets the gold.”
“This boy is in Primary 6 and is 11 years old.”
“He is a star.”
Nigeria’s remarkable performance saw the three students return home with four gold medals, placing the country among the standout nations at the competition, which attracted participants from 154 countries.
The achievement has been widely celebrated as another demonstration that Nigerian students can compete successfully with their peers on the global stage when provided with the right support and opportunities.
