The Brilliant Young Nigerian Lady Who Graduated First-Class in Theatre Arts and Won Best Graduating Student Award

Ilesanmi Odunayo, a brilliant and determined young Nigerian lady, has achieved remarkable academic success, graduating with a first-class degree in Theatre Arts from Ekiti State University, South-West Nigeria. Not only did she complete her studies with distinction, but she also emerged as the best graduating student of her faculty—a significant feat that stands as a testament to her dedication, hard work, and perseverance.

Odunayo’s journey through university was not without challenges, but her focus and commitment to her studies ultimately paid off. Celebrating her achievement, she took to Instagram to express her gratitude, sharing: “I thank God that at the end of it all, I have a good story to tell. 4 years done and well-dusted! I BAGGED A FIRST-CLASS HONOR, B.A DEGREE. And also came out as THE BEST GRADUATING STUDENT IN THE FACULTY OF ARTS.”

Throughout her academic journey, Odunayo remained resolute in her pursuit of excellence. Her success, she says, is the result of hard work and the consistent effort she poured into her studies. As a result, she not only earned top honors but also left a lasting impression on her university and her peers.

In her reflections, Odunayo expressed deep appreciation for the support she received from her parents and guardians, acknowledging their unwavering dedication to her success. “I also appreciate my parents for their efforts over me. I’m glad I made them proud, and I promise that by the special Grace of God Almighty, I’ll hold up the legacy everywhere I find myself,” she said.

Beyond her academic achievements, Odunayo is committed to giving back to society, particularly to young students who aspire to follow a similar path. In line with this, she announced the launch of a book that she wrote, detailing her academic journey and providing valuable tips on how to attain success in education. “I am happy to announce to you that OUR BOOK is finally ready and is totally FREE to everyone who wants to read it. I promised to write a book of how my academic journey has been and share tips on how I attained academic success,” she shared.

Odunayo’s upcoming book aims to serve as a guide and source of inspiration for students, offering them a chance to learn from her experiences, mistakes, and successes. In her words, “It’s a good thing to have people to learn from. Their experiences, mistakes—when we learn from them, it will definitely help us to avoid certain mistakes happening and hopefully forge us onto the right path.”

Her journey is a reminder of the importance of hard work, faith, and resilience. She attributes her success to God’s grace, emphasizing that while her efforts were substantial, it was divine favor that crowned her achievements. “I am nothing on my own. All that I am and will still be is only by God’s grace. I know that I have worked hard, but my success is only possible because God Almighty has crowned my efforts.”

As she looks ahead, Ilesanmi Odunayo remains focused on continuing her personal and professional growth. She is determined to keep pushing boundaries, making impactful contributions to her field, and carrying forward the legacy of excellence she has built during her academic journey.

Her inspiring story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination, resilience, and faith, any dream is achievable. Odunayo’s achievements are not only a source of pride for her family and mentors but also a beacon of hope for countless young students aspiring to academic greatness.

Oluwatobi Olasunkanmi, a 24-year-old Nigerian, made history by becoming the best First Class Law student at the prestigious University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, in 2015. Olasunkanmi’s remarkable achievement earned him the esteemed William Charnley Prize—an award given to the top-performing First Class law graduate at Cambridge’s Hughes Hall.

The exceptional academic accomplishment of Olasunkanmi stands out not only because of its brilliance but also because he was the only student of black descent in his graduating set, making his success even more significant and inspiring. His outstanding performance in one of the world’s most competitive academic environments is a testament to his dedication, intellect, and hard work.

In a letter dated June 26, 2015, Dr. Philip Johnson, Senior Tutor at Hughes Hall, Cambridge, formally congratulated Olasunkanmi, saying, “Many congratulations on obtaining the best Hughes Hall First Class in your BA in Law. In recognition, the College has awarded you with the William Charnley Prize.”

This achievement brought immense pride not only to Olasunkanmi’s family but also to Nigeria as a whole. His father, Senator Akinlabi Olasunkanmi, who once served as Nigeria’s Minister of Youth Development, expressed his profound joy and pride at his son’s success. “Sincerely speaking, my joy is not only because he is my son but because he has represented Nigeria well by bringing a laurel which has manifested in the best First Class Prize in Law,” said Senator Olasunkanmi. Read more about Oluwatobi here.

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