Dr Folakemi Olori, a Nigerian student who fled Ukraine during the 2022 Russian invasion, has graduated as a medical doctor from Near East University in Turkey. She shared her inspiring journey on LinkedIn, detailing the harrowing escape and eventual triumph.
Escape from War-Torn Ukraine
In 2019, Olori left Nigeria to pursue a medical degree in Ukraine. After three years of study, the Russia-Ukraine war erupted in February 2022, forcing her and her classmates to flee. She described spending over 20 hours in overcrowded trains, waiting more than 10 hours in sub-zero temperatures, and crossing international borders on foot. “We left behind our belongings… At one point, I genuinely wasn't sure if I would ever continue studying medicine,” she wrote.
New Beginning in Turkey
Later that year, Olori was admitted to Near East University in Turkey, where she resumed her medical education. She described the experience as an unexpected but transformative journey. On her LinkedIn page, she announced: “Last week, I graduated as a medical doctor, and I'm still processing it… Not as Folakemi Olori, medical student, but as Dr. Folakemi Olanike Olori, MD. Even writing those words feels surreal.”
Social Media Celebrations
Her story garnered widespread attention and congratulations. Kosisochukwu Onodu commented: “Congratulations to you and your fit is on point. Dr!!!!” Munachim Frank-Dobi wrote: “Congratulations Dr. Your story is inspiring.” Adesola Akano added: “Congratulations Dr Folakemi! Your story is really touching. Had a friend in this situation… Glad to see you persevered and are finna done with the degree Dr.”
Broader Context
Olori's achievement follows other notable Nigerian student success stories, including a UNILAG best graduating student who was previously rejected by the University of Ibadan, and a LASU best graduating student who shared her admission struggles. Olori's journey highlights the resilience of Nigerian students abroad amidst global crises.
