Tell me about yourself?
My name is Aminu Favour Akinyele. I hail from Kogi State. I attended POWA International School, Abuja for my primary level education. Then, I proceeded to Command Secondary School, Kaduna for my secondary education. Currently, I am an alumnus of Mountain Top University. I love singing and modeling. I’m passionate about success and a lover of Christ.
With a CGPA of 4.48, you emerged as one of the best graduating students at the age of 19. How was this possible? What was your secret?
I emerged as the third-best graduating student in my department. We had two first-class students, Gbamigbaye Gloria and Olawuyi Oyindamola, then me. My secret is God. He tells me what I need to do at a given time. I did not follow the crowd in doing everything. So, I dared to be different. I tried to do my very best in my assignments, stay away from movies and other unproductive activities for a while, reduce procrastination, and study. However, in my 100 and 200 level, I was a little distracted (boastful), but I was still on a 4-point CGPA. What helped me was determination and vision.
Would you say you knew this was going to happen?
I wanted to and have already predicted that I will graduate from the university with a first-class. However, I once imagined a 4.48 but never wanted it.
What was your reading pattern like? Were there any special methods you adapted?
There were no really special methods. I go online and try to read before tests.
Who or what motivated you the most in school, and why?
First of all, the Holy Spirit was my greatest companion. My parents, Mr. and Mrs. Aminu, and my elder brother, Aminu PraiseGod (who is the youngest first-class graduate in Nigeria), were people who motivated me. Professor and Dr. Mrs. Olukoya; Pastor Moses Adebowale; Pastor and Mrs. Omokaro; Pastor and Mrs. Okey; and, Pastor Olumide Adeshine, as well as Professor Adedun Emmanuel, my HOD and supervisor, Dr. Chinyere Mbaka, and Dr. Young Ademola were also people who motivated me. Amaechi Victoria, Teluwo Damilola, Mrs. Blessing Aribisala, Itunu Olajide, Deborah Oyewole, and Adediran Isreal also motivated me.
What factor would you say contributed to your success?
There are factors that contribute to one’s success. One is discipline (discipline goes a long way), focus, and consistency, as well as determination.
What were the challenges you faced?
There were times I was criticized and mocked for being “too serious.”
What were the things you found amazing about your school?
Some of the activities I found amazing are sports, choral and choir, dinner nights, and also some departmental activities (however, they were limited). I also had the experience of being the first general secretary of my department’s association and was given the award for the most responsible student.
What advice would you give to students who want to achieve great academic excellence like you?
Let God be first in everything you do; be determined; and be disciplined (it goes a long way). Also, set goals and focus on them.
