HAS ANYONE EVER GRADUATED WITH A 5.0 GPA IN NIGERIA? ( FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AND UNDERGRADUATES)

Success is not accidental; it is achieved through hard work, dedication, focus, following critical instructions, correct positioning, taking risks, and seizing opportunities. Impossibility is a mindset, and what may seem difficult to some is achievable by others. The success stories of exceptional Nigerian scholars provide a clear answer to the question of whether anyone has ever graduated with a 5.0 GPA in Nigeria. This super article is written with the aim of inspiring high school (secondary) students and undergraduates in Nigeria and beyond. Please share this leadership development article with your friends, colleagues, students, staff, teachers, siblings, parents/guardians, and on social media to inspire and promote academic excellence among young people.

Daniel Dada Ayodele, a first-class graduate student in the Department of Psychology at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), was honoured by the House of Representatives on March 22, 2016, for achieving a perfect 5.0 CGPA. He was the star graduand during the 2014/2015 Convocation of the University of Lagos (UNILAG). The Majority Leader, Femi Gbajabiamila, proposed the motion to recognize and celebrate Mr. Dada’s remarkable achievement, which was unanimously adopted by the lawmakers.

Mr. Dada received a standing ovation from the lawmakers and was invited to the floor of the House to be honoured.

After his appearance at the House chamber, Mr. Dada spoke to journalists, expressing his disbelief and gratitude for the standing ovation he received. He thanked Mr. Gbajabimiala and shared that he had no girlfriend during his four years as an undergraduate, but had many female friends. Despite facing financial struggles and hunger during his schooling, he eventually found stability through private tutoring, earning up to N5,000 a day. He has received job offers, including a lecturing position at the University of Lagos, but is taking time to decide on his next steps.

In an interview, Mr. Ayodele stated, “I strive to be the best at what I do every day.” His coursemates, lecturer, and parents all agree that his personal leadership standard, lifestyle, habits, and demeanor are unmatched and exemplary. In 2015, Mr. Ayodele broke a 54-year-old record at UNILAG with a rare academic achievement.

UNILAG: Two Female Graduates Achieve 5.0 CGPA, Share Their Secrets To Success

Both Taiwo Bankole and Oyindamola Omotuyi of UNILAG graduated in 2017 with a perfect 5.0 CGPA, indicating that they earned A grades in all their courses throughout their university education. Bankole studied Cell Biology and Genetics, while Omotuyi pursued System Engineering at the University of Lagos.

Omotuyi credited her father, an engineer, for inspiring her to work hard and achieve academic excellence. She emphasized that she was not born a genius and had to put in a lot of effort to achieve her first-class honours. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, she persevered and sought help from others to improve her performance.

Omotuyi encouraged students to take responsibility for their education and emphasized the importance of after-school lessons in her academic success. She also highlighted the significance of doing well in both JAMB and post-UTME exams to secure admission to the university.

‘’Taiwo Bankole and Oyindamola Omotuyi shared their insights on academic success. Omotuyi emphasized the importance of hard work and learning from others, attributing her discipline to her father’s influence. She also highlighted the significance of following the guidance she received from God in her studies. “Thus, the exceptional thing is that I followed the directions that God gave me. I really did not just go to the library to read, I went to my seniors and asked what the lecturer of a course really wants students to focus on. I wasn’t so concerned about writing what I feel, but what the lecturer wants to see. I remember once in the exam hall, the Lord told me to write what the lecturer wants to see, not just what you want to write. I see lecturers as humans, and they are the ones marking the script, they have feelings and they know what they want to see because of what they have deposited in you, so they don’t want to see just anything; they know what they are looking for. That is the mindset with which I face my courses and exams. Write what lecturers want to see, not what you feel you know.’’

Additionally, she discussed her social life and future plans, encouraging students to strive for academic excellence regardless of past setbacks.

Bankole recounted her journey to obtaining a first-class degree, revealing that she initially failed the UTME but later gained admission to UNILAG through a diploma program. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a high CGPA through consistent studying and reliance on God for success.

Bankole revealed that she dedicated six hours to reading every day, and as a result, her CGPA began to rise from her second year. She aimed to achieve an A in each of the 102 course units.

Regarding her future plans, Bankole expressed her desire to pursue a Master’s degree in genetics after completing her NYSC. In terms of her social life, she mentioned that she spends time with friends, watches movies, and attends church. She also stated that she does not have a boyfriend, as her focus is on her studies, and she believes that the right person will come into her life at the right time.

She encouraged students to remain hardworking and focused, emphasizing the importance of diligence and trust in God to overcome challenges. She expressed that she has no regrets.

Other Nigerians Who Have Graduated With 5.0 CGPA:

1. Motunrayo Victoria Ajia, a 21-year-old Petroleum Engineering student, made history at Covenant University by graduating with a perfect CGPA of 5.00 in the 2018/2019 academic session. This achievement marks the first time a student has accomplished this at the university. Motunrayo is a beautiful and intelligent role model for teenage girls and single ladies. They should look up to her as an example to follow.

2. Ewerechukwu Favour Asaka graduated as the top student in Computer Science with a perfect CGPA of 5.0 in the 2020/2021 academic session at Covenant University.

3. Dashe Fatima Andat graduated with a perfect CGPA of 5.0 in 2023 from Covenant University, where she studied Accounting.

4. Gloria Bozhena Ezuma, a Business Administration student at Nile University of Nigeria, achieved a perfect 5.0 CGPA at the institution’s 8th Convocation ceremony on March 6, 2021. The institution announced this on its website.

5. Precious Eteyen Okon, a Petroleum & Gas Engineering student ( class of 2022) at Nile University of Nigeria, achieved a perfect 5.0 CGPA at the institution’s 10th convocation, November 17, 2022. Precious also discusses her involvement in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and personal leadership initiatives. It goes thus, “During my time at Nile University, I was actively involved in various volunteering roles, including serving as an Energy4Me Ambassador with the Society of Petroleum Engineers International, President of the SPE Nile University Chapter, and the Nile Christian Fellowship. I also volunteered with the SPE Abuja Section 199.

As President of the SPE Nile Chapter, I led my team in achieving significant milestones, such as planting 100 trees to commemorate Earth Day, initiating the Mental Health Awareness Series and Skills Development Series, and winning the Student Chapter Excellence Award in 2022. Additionally, I was honoured with the Girl in STEM Leadership Award in 2021 from the Women’s Leadership Programme under the SPE Nigeria Council. I am grateful for the opportunity to have made a positive impact in these roles and believe that excellence comes with a responsibility to inspire and empower others, which is a commitment I hold dear.”

6. Emmanuel Ayomide Obayemi, a 2022 accounting student at Nile University of Nigeria, achieved a perfect 5.0 CGPA at the institution’s 10th convocation ceremony.

7. David Oluwatomiwa Akanmu, the son of a UNILAG professor, achieved a perfect 5.00 CGPA and emerged as the overall best student for the 2021/2023 academic session. He was the top graduating student at the University of Lagos 54th convocation ceremony and also the best graduating student in the faculty of engineering and the department of civil and environmental engineering. Born on February 21, 2001, he is also the author of the book “Roadmap to 5.0, The Not So-Hidden Secrets to Academic Success,” which aims to educate students on achieving good grades. Let’s learn about a lot of his personal success strategies in this insightful interview. If you want to excel academically, make sure to get David’s new book, launching on February 3, 2024. You can purchase it online through this link. You won’t regret it!

8. Dr. Victor Olalusi was the top graduating student in the Russian Federation in 2013, achieving a perfect 5.0 CGPA at the Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow (RNRMU). He studied at RNRMU under the Russia-Nigeria Bilateral Education Agreement.

9. Olukayode Mobolaji Oluwasona graduated with a perfect CGPA of 5.0 in Computer Technology from the University of Computer Sciences and Skills, Lodz in 2017. He achieved this remarkable accomplishment after participating in a special degree exchange program arranged by Babcock University with the University of Computer Sciences and Skills, Lodz, Poland, which he joined at the 200 level after leaving Nigeria.

10. Oluwatuyi Olowoyeye achieved a perfect GPA of 5.0 in his Master’s Program at the University of Debrecen in Hungary in 2021. He graduated with special honour.

11. Olusola Aanu Olabanjo is a Nigerian graduate who achieved a perfect CGPA at the Master’s program level. Olabanjo was recognized as the Best MSc student at the 24th LASU Convocation Ceremony on December 16, 2020.

12. Mary Otunba graduated as the top student in her department from Caleb University Business School with a 5.0 CGPA in 2020. In a LinkedIn post, she shared, “My experience has taught me that life is in phases. I aim to enjoy every moment because they are not meant to last forever.” Mary earned a National Diploma (ND) in Accounting before pursuing a degree in Economics. Despite personal challenges, such as the loss of her parents in 2016 and 2017, and financial difficulties, she received support from friends and mentors. Mary excelled academically from secondary school through university, holding leadership roles. Her advice to students seeking excellent results is to set clear goals and develop a plan to achieve them. She emphasizes the importance of identifying what works for you and staying focused on your goals.

13. Deborah Danjuma Eleojo, a recent graduate (class of 2023) of Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara State, has made history by achieving a perfect CGPA of 5.0 in mechanical engineering, becoming the first ever graduate with such a remarkable feat at the institution. Her outstanding academic performance has earned her recognition and praise, and she aspires to become a Robotics Engineer.

14. Ifeoma Gladys Amuche, a 22-year-old Nigerian, was named the top graduating student at SouthWest University in Chongqing, China. She studied Chinese Language and Literature and holds a National Diploma in Library and Information Science from Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State. During her studies, she developed a passion for the Chinese language and became fluent in Mandarin. She is also proficient in Igbo, English, and Hausa.

Ifeoma’s fluency in Mandarin led to her being chosen as the valedictorian, and she delivered an impressive speech in Mandarin to an audience of over 9,000 at her convocation ceremony on June 22, 2023. She attributes her academic success to her dedication to her studies, consistent completion of assignments, and continuous improvement in her grades from one semester to the next. She also credits her proficiency in Mandarin to watching Chinese films. Check out this beautiful and intelligent lady on her Instagram handle.

15. Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu welcomed Yusuf Aminat Imoitsemeh, a law student who achieved a perfect CGPA of 5.0 from Lagos State University, Ojo. The governor announced this on his verified Twitter handle @jidesanwoolu on Thursday, July 6. He also awarded her a cash prize of N10 million and offered her automatic employment. Aminat Yusuf, an indigene of Edo State, broke a 40-year record at LASU with her remarkable achievement. Additionally, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has offered her automatic employment in recognition of her outstanding academic performance.

Yusuf Aminat opened up about her financial struggles while pursuing her academic degree, expressing gratitude to her parents for their support and sacrifice. She is driven by her parents’ inspiration and encouragement to always strive for excellence. She emphasized the importance of helping other students avoid similar hardships (she noted that at some point, she was surviving on only garri alone on the campus). Despite facing financial difficulties, she drew inspiration from her journalist and businesswoman parents and aspires to launch a YouTube channel to teach law and give back to her community. Read more. Aminat’s father, a journalist, instilled in her a strong attention to detail from her high school days. As the best graduating student at LASU in 40 years and a committed hijab advocate, her academic achievement is a significant win for the hijab-wearing community. Aminat is an avid reader and a passionate advocate for hijab. In this interview, she shares her philosophies and secrets.

Igniting Excellence In Young Minds: The Power Of Encouragement

Let’s learn from Yusuf Aminat’s parents and adopt their excellent parenting approach. Parents and guardians have a significant impact on shaping the future of their children. Their influence goes beyond guidance; it involves consistently inspiring, motivating, and encouraging them to strive for excellence. By fostering a mindset of continuous improvement, children, teenagers, and students are empowered to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and develop resilience. The ongoing support and positive reinforcement from mentors ignite a passion for excellence, nurturing a determination to succeed in academics, personal growth, and beyond. The role of parents and guardians as advocates for their children’s aspirations is not just a duty; it is a powerful force for unlocking the full potential of the next generation. Every word of encouragement contains the potential for a future marked by accomplishment and fulfilment.

Developing A Reading Culture

Have you read any of the books authored by Dr. Benjamin Carson, such as “Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story,” “You Have A Brain,” or “Think Big”? Can our high school (secondary) students and undergraduates cultivate the spirit of excellence and go on to fulfill their destinies by developing a reading culture? They can start by clicking these links (below) and compulsorily getting these super 4-in-1 ebooks today. Let’s remember that lasting success and greatness are not accidental.