Shane Missler, a 20-year-old man in the US state of Florida, on Friday won the Mega Millions jackpot of $451 million (app. N162 billion).
However, he chose the option of collecting a lump sum of $282 million (app. N101 billion) which was paid at once, instead of the original figure ($451m) in annual installments.
According to Associated Press, quoting a statement from Florida Lottery, Missler claimed the jackpot from the multistate game’s January 5 drawing.
His winning numbers were 28-30-39-59-70 with a Mega Ball of 10.
The retailer at the shop where the winning ticket was bought also received a $100,000 bonus.
The win is the tenth largest in US lottery history, and Missler said he would use it to take care of his family among other needs.
Missler said, “I’m only 20, but I hope to use it to pursue a variety of passions, help my family and do some good for humanity.
“If there is one thing I have learned thus far in my short time on this earth it is that those who maintain a positive mindset and stay true to themselves get rewarded.
“I look forward to the future.”