I Trekked To Lectures, Borrowed Phones To Study – Lokoja Varsity’s Best Graduating Student

Beauty Enyo-Ojo is a first-class graduate of the Federal University, Lokoja, in Kogi State. In this interview with IBRAHIM OBANSA, she recounts her remarkable journey from trekking to lectures and relying on borrowed phones to graduating with First-Class Honours in Economics as the Overall Best Graduating Student, offering an inspiring message of resilience, discipline, and faith.

Can you take us back to the beginning of your journey at the Federal University Lokoja? When did you gain admission, and what was that period like for you?

I gained admission into the Federal University Lokoja in 2019. It was the beginning of a new chapter in my life, but it also came with its own challenges.

What were some of the major challenges you faced when you started your university journey?

When I entered the Federal University Lokoja, life was very difficult. I came from a poor background and did not even have an Android phone, which was very important for accessing academic materials. I also faced serious financial challenges, trekked long distances to lectures, and sometimes struggled to afford regular meals. Despite these difficulties, I made up my mind that my circumstances would not determine my future.

You mentioned that you did not have an Android phone at the time, despite the fact that many academic materials were available online. How were you able to cope with this challenge?

It was not easy. I practically made the university library my second home. I spent several hours there studying and carrying out research. Whenever I needed internet access or online materials, a friend would kindly lend me a phone. I made the most of every available opportunity instead of complaining about what I lacked.

Looking back on your academic journey, the challenges you overcame, and the dedication it took to reach this milestone, how does it feel to emerge as the Overall Best Graduating Student of the Federal University Lokoja?

Thank you very much. It is an overwhelming feeling of gratitude. Looking back at where I started and the many challenges I encountered along the way, I can only give thanks to God. This achievement is a testament to the fact that hard work, discipline, consistency, and faith can help one overcome even the toughest circumstances.

After all the sacrifices, struggles, and challenges you encountered throughout your university journey, did they eventually pay off? What did you graduate with?

It truly did pay off. Today, to the glory of God, I can proudly say that I graduated with a First-Class Honours degree in Economics.

You started your academic journey on a remarkable note, finishing your first semester with a perfect 5.00 GPA. What would you identify as the key factors responsible for maintaining such outstanding academic performance?

I refused to allow my circumstances to define my academic performance. I remained disciplined, focused, and committed to my studies. I developed a strong belief that excellence was possible regardless of my situation, and I consistently put in the hard work required to achieve my goals.

After your undergraduate studies, did you pursue any professional qualifications or programmes?

Yes, I did. In my second year, I enrolled in the ATS professional programme while studying Economics. Balancing both programmes demanded a lot of discipline, but I was able to pass my professional examinations while maintaining excellent academic performance, including another perfect GPA in one of the semesters.

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Can you tell us more about your experience combining professional programmes with your university studies, and how you managed the challenges that came with it?

My third year was one of the busiest periods of my life. I was preparing for ICAN examinations, handling my university coursework, and serving on the Faculty of Social Sciences Election Committee. The workload became overwhelming, and my cumulative GPA suffered. However, instead of becoming discouraged, I reassessed my strategies, improved my time management, and returned stronger.

You mentioned earlier that in  your final year, you had to combine academic responsibilities with student leadership. How were you able to successfully manage both demands?

By God’s grace, I had become better at balancing responsibilities. I served as the first female Interim Student Union President while also preparing for ICAN examinations and completing my final-year academic work. It required proper planning, discipline, and consistency. Thankfully, I recorded a perfect GPA in both semesters of my final year, which eventually earned me the Overall Best Graduating Student award.

Beyond your academic achievements, what accomplishment gives you the greatest satisfaction?

One of my greatest joys is mentoring other students. I encouraged many of my colleagues and junior students to believe in themselves and pursue academic excellence. Seeing them improve academically remains one of the most fulfilling aspects of my university experience.

How did your experience as Interim Student Union President shape your personal and leadership growth?

It was a wonderful opportunity to serve and contribute to the development of the university. The position improved my communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, and taught me how to work effectively with people from different backgrounds.

You are known for several motivational sayings. What values and experiences inspired those words?

I strongly believe that challenges are opportunities to become stronger. That is why I always say challenges are the breakfast of champions.  I also believe that  there is no star without a scar,. A heavy sleeper can never be a star and  sleep can corrupt destiny. These principles remind me that greatness requires sacrifice, discipline, and consistency.

What message would you like to share with students who are currently facing financial, academic, or personal challenges?

Do not allow temporary difficulties to determine your future. Manage your time wisely, remain disciplined, and make good use of every available resource. Seek guidance from mentors, surround yourself with focused friends, and never stop learning. I also encourage students to embrace leadership opportunities, volunteer, and pursue professional certifications because they prepare them for life beyond the classroom.

Finally, what role did God play in your journey to becoming the Overall Best Graduating Student?

Everything I achieved is by the grace of God. I firmly believe that making God your priority gives direction, strength, and purpose. My faith sustained me through every challenge, and I give Him all the glory for this achievement.