In an inspiring turn of events that has left many in awe, James Ojo Alleh, a recent graduate of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), has set a new record by achieving the highest CGPA in the institution’s history, surpassing a 54-year-old record. His remarkable achievement, which saw him graduate with a CGPA of 4.98, has captivated both the university community and the public at large, sparking celebrations and a surge of visitors to his family’s home in Benin.
The news broke on January 18, 2025, when James, alongside his mother, Sis Rebecca Alleh, shared the incredible story of how his faith in God led him to break barriers and make history at UNIBEN.
“I am the tool, the chosen boy,” says Alleh
In a heartfelt testimony, James Alleh declared that his success was a divine manifestation. “I am the son, the tool, the chosen boy that God used to break a 54-year-old record at the University of Benin,” he said during a session at the Lord’s Chosen Church. “It is only by the grace and power of the God of Chosen that I am able to achieve what was once thought impossible.”
Alleh’s journey to academic greatness is one steeped in both struggle and divine intervention. After losing his father, his mother, Sis Rebecca, took the family to join the Lord’s Chosen Church in 2011. Alleh recounted that despite completing his secondary education in 2016, he faced challenges in securing university admission. “It was a tough period,” Alleh reflected. “There was no admission until 2018, but that was when I attended a youth program at the Lord’s Chosen. During the service, God’s servant spotted my issue in prayers and declared that in three days, I would receive admission.”
On the third day, Alleh received his long-awaited admission letter to study Petroleum Engineering at the University of Benin, a pivotal moment in his life that marked the beginning of his extraordinary academic journey.
A Prayer That Changed His Life Forever
During a visit to the Lord’s Chosen’s Mgbidi program in 2018, Alleh took a bold step by sitting at the back of the pulpit where the church’s spiritual leader usually stood. In this powerful moment, he made a declaration: “I said to myself, ‘The God of Chosen will help me break records.’” His words, driven by an unwavering belief in divine intervention, would soon manifest in ways beyond his imagination.
His academic journey was marked by numerous triumphs, but it was the final result that left many astonished. Alleh graduated as the best student in his department, Petroleum Engineering, and was the first to achieve such a feat in the department’s history.
In an unexpected twist, Alleh’s Vice Chancellor expressed surprise upon hearing of the result, as his academic scripts were rechecked for verification. The verification process only confirmed what had already been witnessed: Alleh had achieved something truly remarkable.
The Power of Faith and Recognition
James Alleh’s mother, Sis Rebecca, was called to the stage during the graduation ceremony to acknowledge the miracle that had transpired. Wearing a “Chosen” apron, she was met with admiration and support, with one of the dignitaries remarking, “No wonder he is a Chosen!”
The testimony of Alleh’s achievement quickly gained attention, and his family saw a remarkable change in fortune. “Doors opened for us,” Alleh stated. “Millions began to pour into our family, and opportunities followed one after another.”
Perhaps even more extraordinary is Alleh’s newfound ability to travel. Prior to his academic breakthrough, he had never set foot on an airplane. However, in the months following his graduation, Alleh has flown an astounding six to seven times, marking a dramatic shift in his life.
Breaking New Ground in His Community
James Alleh’s triumph has not only been a personal victory but also a catalyst for change in his community. “The community that was once unknown is now being recognized,” Alleh shared. “People are coming from all over to visit us and witness the miracle for themselves.”
His success has also opened doors beyond academics. Alleh became the first student from his faculty to be appointed as an ambassador for the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) shortly after his graduation. This new position further solidifies his growing reputation and influence in the state.
A Testimony to the Power of Faith
Looking back on his incredible journey, Alleh attributed everything to the grace of God. “Only the God of Chosen could have done this,” he declared with gratitude. “All glory belongs to Him.”
In a society where academic excellence is often hard to attain, especially in competitive fields like Petroleum Engineering, Alleh’s achievement stands as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and divine intervention. His story is one that inspires not only students but anyone who believes in the possibility of overcoming insurmountable odds through belief in a higher power.
As his family’s story continues to inspire many, Alleh’s name will forever be etched in the history books of the University of Benin as the student who defied expectations and shattered a 54-year-old record. His success proves that with faith, determination, and the right guidance, anything is possible.
“Only God chosen can do this!” he says, returning all the glory to the divine force that led him to this unprecedented achievement.