18-year-old Nigerian-American girl accepted into Harvard, Yale and four other Ivy League universities

18-year-old daughter of Nigerian immigrants, Osariemen Unuigbe, has been accepted into six Ivy League universities in the United States, including Harvard and Yale. 

Unuigbe, the daughter of Dr. Augustine Unuigbe and Dr. (Mrs.) Florence Unuigbe, from Edo State, attributed the recognition to her dedication and excellent academic record.

“We are elated, surprised, but absolutely delighted. We can only give all the glory to God for this great miracle,” her family remarked.

Unuigbe, who is currently a senior at Egg Harbor Township High School in New Jersey, boasts a strong academic background and an unwavering commitment to advanced studies.

She was also accepted into the highly selective Governor’s School of New Jersey and has held several leadership positions. 

Beyond the classrooms, she plays lacrosse and has a passion for dancing, painting, and drawing.

In recognition of her achievements, she has been selected as a 2025 “Rising to the Top” scholar by the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Southern New Jersey Chapter.

According to the Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, enrollment of Nigerian students at U.S. colleges and universities rose to 20,029 in the 2023/2024 academic year, marking a 13.5 per cent increase from previous years. 

“Nigerian students bring a wealth of diversity, perspective, and academic excellence to U.S. campuses, enriching the educational experience for all,” the report stated.