University of Ibadan Student Triumphs with First-Class Degree After Prolonged Admission Battle
In an inspiring tale of perseverance, Asiwaju Adebare Adeoti, a recent graduate from the University of Ibadan (UI), has defied significant odds to earn a first-class honours degree in political science. Adeoti, who served as the 62nd president of the Department of Political Science, not only achieved academic excellence but also emerged as the best graduating student in his department, marking a remarkable turnaround after years of setbacks.
A Journey Marked by Resilience and Multiple Attempts
Adeoti's path to success was far from straightforward. He revealed in a viral tweet on February 19 that he faced numerous challenges in gaining university admission. Specifically, he wrote the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) five times and sat for his O'Level examinations on four separate occasions. Additionally, he spent a total of six years at home after completing his secondary education, persistently striving to secure a place at the University of Ibadan.
Reflecting on his arduous journey, Adeoti emphasized that his achievement is a testament to long-term effort rather than overnight success. In his tweet, he stated: "Did UTME 5 Times. Did O'level four times. Spent 6 years at home before gaining admission. 2026; I am now a first class graduate and best graduating student of my department. Success is not a product of overnight but a product of overtime. God be praised!" This message has resonated widely, highlighting the value of persistence in the face of adversity.
Celebratory Reactions from Netizens and the Broader Community
The news of Adeoti's accomplishment sparked a wave of congratulatory messages and discussions on social media. Many users praised his determination and shared how his story served as a source of motivation. For instance, one user commented: "Congratulations!!! The greatest glory is not in never falling but in every rising each time one falls," while another noted: "No greatness without a story. This inspired me. Congratulations, my leader. Keep on excelling in all your endeavors."
Others highlighted the broader implications of his journey, with one user remarking: "What a journey! That’s not luck, that’s resilience. Success truly isn’t overnight... it’s built over time, through persistence and faith." However, some netizens raised questions about career prospects in political science, with comments such as: "You spent 6 years trying to get admission and 4 years to study political science. 10 years probably gone. Is not like the political science came with a guarantee job," and "Congratulations my boss, but I am only curious to know why you opt for political science considering rate at which opportunity in that field is very low." Despite these concerns, the overwhelming sentiment was one of admiration and encouragement.
Related Stories of Academic Perseverance at University of Ibadan
Adeoti's achievement is part of a broader narrative of resilience among University of Ibadan students. In a related instance, another UI student who initially aimed for a second-class upper degree ultimately graduated with a first-class honours, demonstrating similar determination. Additionally, a law student at the university, Dauda Ideraoluwa, shared her own story of staying at home for five years after secondary school before gaining admission. She first completed a history degree with first-class honours and then pursued law at UI, describing her five-year law program as intense and involving hardships like trekking on an empty stomach.
These stories collectively underscore the challenges many Nigerian youths face in accessing higher education and the extraordinary efforts required to overcome them. They serve as powerful reminders that academic success often involves prolonged struggles and unwavering commitment.
Asiwaju Adebare Adeoti's journey from multiple UTME attempts to becoming the best graduating student in his department is a compelling example of how perseverance can lead to outstanding achievements. His story not only celebrates personal triumph but also inspires others to persist in their own educational pursuits, regardless of the obstacles they may encounter.
