By Ayo Arowojolu
Segun Okewusi was one of the 120 First Class graduates of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta(FUNAAB) who shone like brilliant stars during the just concluded 32nd Convocation of the Institution.
A graduate of Animal Physiology with a strong CGPA of 4.56, he has a beautiful story to tell but his experience leading to his eventual triumph was harrowing. He almost dropped out of the University due to extreme poverty.
Paying school fees and having to feed throughout the five years he spent in the University was a big issue. As as he was concerned, he was an indigent student due to the fact that his parents could hardly foot his bills.
Okewusi had no scruples devising a way out of his predicament as he frequently joins bricklayers as labourer and for other menial jobs during his free time. For him, that was the only option for survival.
Upon completion of his studies sometimes in 2024, he returned into doing menial jobs since he couldn’t proceed for the National Youth Service Corps(NYSC) scheme, having clocked over 30.
But he has his eyes on getting a good paying job and he is open to scholarship opportunities and sponsorships both within Nigeria and overseas.
Okewusi tells his story himself. Hear him: “My name is Okewusi Olusegun Ishola, and my story is one of resilience, perseverance, and unyielding faith in God in the face of life’s challenges.
“Born as the last son in a polygamous family of six, my academic journey was shaped by the realities of financial struggles and the determination to rise above them.
Growing up, my family faced severe challenges and financial difficulties. My elder brothers could not complete their secondary education due to these challenges, leaving the dream of higher education seemingly achievable only by my sisters, who fought through thick and thin to complete their schooling. I, however, was determined not to let history repeat itself.
“In primary school, I excelled academically, but things took a different turn in secondary school. My performance dropped, and I was promoted to SS3 on trial. Even then, I never lost hope. I clung to the belief that God, hardwork and persistence could change my story.
After completing secondary school in 2010, my dream of furthering my education was put on hold for seven years. During that time, I wrote WAEC three times and UTME four times, all while working different jobs to save for my education. Despite my efforts, I could barely save enough to make the leap to higher education. It felt like my dream was slipping away.
“In 2018, God turned my story around. I gained admission to the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) to study Animal Physiology. Although my initial goal was to study Human Medicine or Nursing, I embraced the opportunity with gratitude and determination.
“Admission came at a time when I had no money to start, but God raised helpers—kind-hearted individuals who supported me throughout my journey.
My university experience was filled with challenges. While I started with a strong GPA of 4.45, financial struggles, life challenges, and academic pressures almost broke me, especially in my 300-level year. Yet, I kept pushing, trusting in God, looking and holding onto Him as the author and finisher of my faith.
“Today, I am proud to say that, by the GRACE OF GOD only, I graduated with a first-class degree and a CGPA of 4.56. It is a milestone that represents not just academic success but also the triumph of hope, faith, and perseverance.
“God willing, I still aspire to further my education by pursuing a master’s degree and a PhD. I am open to scholarship opportunities, sponsorships, and job offers both within and outside Nigeria.
“I believe that with the right support, I can achieve even greater heights in my academic and professional journey.
“To anyone going through difficulties, my advice is simple: never give up. When the road ahead seems uncertain, and the challenges feel insurmountable, trust in God, stay focused, and keep moving forward. Success often lies just beyond the toughest moments”.
*Segun Okewusi can be reached on: 08137397846*
