Aminat Yusuf, the best-graduating student for the 2021/2022
set at Lagos State University (LASU),
shared her remarkable journey to success.
Despite facing financial challenges and being the first child of her parents,
Aminat’s determination, guidance from her lecturers, hard work, and divine intervention
played crucial roles in her academic achievements.
Born in Edo State, Aminat achieved a Cumulative Grade Point
Average (CGPA) of 5.00, securing a First Class Honours degree. Her outstanding
performance not only made her the top student of her graduating set but also
marked a historic moment in LASU’s 40-year history.
Reflecting on her journey, Aminat acknowledged the financial
constraints her parents faced and the responsibility she felt as the eldest
child. She mentioned that she sought financial assistance only when
circumstances were dire, having exhausted all other options.
During her time at LASU, Aminat experienced significant
financial difficulties. In her second semester of 200 Level, she saved
approximately 90% of her feeding allowance to afford a browsing phone and
computer skills training. She lived on the university premises throughout her
undergraduate years due to the lack of hostel accommodation. Despite the
absence of a proper living arrangement, the presence of security personnel and
reliable lighting ensured her safety. Her main challenge, however, was
attending lectures every day while appearing immaculately dressed in a white
and black outfit, concealing the hardships she faced.
Recalling her first day at LASU for the physical screening
required for admission into the Diploma in Law program, Aminat admitted
fantasizing about achieving remarkable feats at the prestigious institution.
She embarked on the two-year program, studying diligently and fervently praying
for excellence. Aminat graduated from the diploma program with an impressive
CGPA of 4.98, the highest in her cohort. This accomplishment fueled her
aspiration to graduate with a perfect CGPA at the undergraduate level.
Aminat urged well-meaning Nigerians to invest in the education
sector and commended the passing of the Student Loan Act, recognizing its
potential immeasurable value to the educational system. She expressed her hope
that future students, particularly female students, would not have to endure
the financial hardships she experienced.
Furthermore, Aminat expressed her gratitude to the LASU
management for maintaining a congenial and supportive environment that
contributed to her excellent performance. She thanked her parents for their
unwavering support and sacrifice throughout her educational journey. Aminat
drew inspiration from her father, a journalist, and her mother, a
businesswoman, who both motivated her in their respective careers.
Appreciating the faculty lecturers, Aminat acknowledged their
commitment, dedication, and excellence in imparting knowledge and guiding
students to achieve their best. In her desire to give back to society, she
announced the launch of a YouTube channel called “Learning Law with
Aminat.” Through this channel, she aimed to contribute to her immediate
community and share her knowledge.
Aminat’s story serves as a testament to the power of
resilience, hard work, and mentorship. Despite the challenges she faced, she
emerged as an exemplary student and a source of inspiration for future
generations.
