Uthman Uthman Olayode, the overall best graduating student of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Ibadan, has revealed that he failed the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) five times before securing admission and eventually excelling at the university.
Speaking during the institution’s combined convocation ceremony for the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions, Olayode shared a powerful testimony of perseverance and determination, drawing admiration from attendees which included top dignitaries.
Present at the ceremony were Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by his deputy, Adebayo Lawal; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, represented by Chief Adegboyega Adegoke; the Chancellor, Dr. Tunde Afolabi; Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Kazeem Adeduntan; and the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adesola Ajayi.
Olayode, who studied Physics with Electronics, narrated how his journey into the university was marked by repeated rejections despite strong academic potential.
“Despite excelling in secondary school, I faced repeated setbacks in gaining admission to a higher institution and had to sit for the UTME five times, with each attempt full of promise, and each denial a heavy blow.”
“I watched classmates gain admission while I remained behind, wondering if my turn would ever come. But faith kept me going,” he said.
His breakthrough came on the fifth attempt, when he was awarded a scholarship to study at the university. From that point, his academic journey took a remarkable turn.
“I feel proud to say that my name is Uthman Uthman Olayode, and I am deeply honoured to address you as the overall best graduating student of the 2023/2024 academic session of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University.”
He continued: “I am, therefore, a living proof that no dream is too big to become a reality, and no background is too humble to be liberated by solid education.”
Olayode, who completed his degree with an outstanding academic record, disclosed that he earned 55 As and only 2 Bs during his entire undergraduate years.
He maintained a perfect 5.0 GPA in six out of eight semesters, five of them consecutively.
“Reflecting on my journey, I am reminded that what seems like a delay to us is often the perfect timing in God’s divine plan,” he added.
His academic achievements were also recognized through multiple scholarships and awards.
“I was honoured to receive three prestigious scholarships: the Federal Government Scholarship Award (FSB) in both my 300 and 400 levels, MTN Foundation Scholarship, and Oyo State bursary for final year students,” he said.
Olayode was also a student leader, serving as the Ameer of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) in his final year, and balancing leadership responsibilities with academic excellence.
“Despite the numerous challenges and stress that came with leadership, including late-night meetings and travels, I was able to maintain an excellent academic record throughout my tenure.”
“This experience has taught me that serving a higher purpose and sacrificing for a noble cause does not hinder one’s progress, but it rather propels it forward.”
