Covenant University First-Class Graduate Chooses Entrepreneurship Over Corporate Path
In a society where a first-class degree from Covenant University is often seen as a ticket to high-paying corporate roles, particularly in Nigeria's oil sector, Onwuka Wisdom has charted a different course. Wisdom, who earned a first-class honours degree in biochemistry from Covenant University, now operates a phone accessories business at Alaba International Market in Lagos, challenging conventional notions of success.
Educational Background and Faith-Driven Decisions
Wisdom, hailing from Abiriba in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State but born in Ojo, Lagos, shared his story in an exclusive interview. He attended Command Day Secondary School in Ojo before proceeding to Covenant University in Ogun State, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with first-class honours in 2020, with his convocation held on May 21, 2021.
"I am a believer and worship with the Assemblies of God, Ojo Int’l Mega Church. My faith is not just a belief system; it is the compass that has guided every major decision of my life," Wisdom explained. His religious beliefs have been integral to his journey, influencing his shift from structured employment to entrepreneurship.
From Corporate Role to Business Venture
After completing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as a biology teacher at CDSS Ojo, following redeployment from Taraba State, Wisdom worked for two years as a Quality Assurance professional at a food multinational company. This company produced therapeutic food for malnourished children in partnership with organizations like UNICEF, World Food Programme, and USAID.
Despite the meaningful nature of this role, Wisdom felt a deeper calling. In January 2025, he made the bold decision to resign, trusting in his faith and conviction. "I did not have everything figured out. What I had was conviction. I trusted God, and clarity came step by step," he recounted. This leap led him to found Ambassador Global, a business specializing in phone accessories, electronics, spare parts, LCDs, and device cases, with goods imported from China.
Strategic Move to Alaba International Market
Wisdom emphasized that his transition to Alaba International Market was deliberate, not a sudden shift. "It was not a sudden jump from university to Alaba. It was a deliberate transition from structured employment into entrepreneurship," he stated. He recognized Alaba as one of Africa's largest hubs for electronics and phone accessories, seeing opportunity where others perceived limitations.
With support from family business connections and prior exposure to trade, Wisdom navigated initial uncertainties. "Many people assumed I had been sacked. Others thought I would soon return to job hunting. But I communicated my vision to those who needed to understand, and allowed results to speak to others over time," he said, highlighting the resilience and discipline required in his entrepreneurial path.
Addressing Societal Expectations and Reactions
Wisdom faced mixed reactions upon revealing his occupation, with comments ranging from skepticism to outright dismissal. "Some people say, 'After First-Class, na business you come dey do?' Others ask, 'Why didn’t you enter oil and gas?'" he shared. These responses initially led him to question his choices, but reflection brought clarity.
He advocates for a broader definition of success, urging others not to be confined by societal expectations. "A first-class degree is an achievement, but it is not the final definition of success. It is a leverage. It is a platform. It is a responsibility," Wisdom asserted. He stressed that education should be viewed as a tool for sharpening skills, not a guaranteed route to wealth, and emphasized the importance of vision, character, faith, and execution in achieving meaningful impact.
Message to Future Graduates
In a thought-provoking message to current and future first-class graduates, Wisdom encouraged pursuing passions and legitimate trades with excellence. "If you have a skill, a passion, or a legitimate trade, pursue it with excellence. Education sharpens you. Vision directs you. Character sustains you. Faith grounds you. Execution distinguishes you," he advised. His story serves as a reminder that success is not solely about prestigious paths but about creating meaningful impact through one's endeavors.
This narrative echoes similar stories, such as a first-class graduate who sells foodstuffs and proudly displays her certificate, reinforcing that academic achievements can complement diverse career paths without diminishing their value.
