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Oluwabusayo Ifonlaja‘S The academic journey is not only a story of awards, but a masterclass in grit, resilience and quiet strength.
Greetings for the degree in Law with a perfect 5.0 cgpa and earning 18 prizes, its history is deeper than the applause and certificates.
In this exclusive interview with Korade Badmus, he brings us beyond the spotlight in the real struggles, sacrifices and moments of truths that have modeled his stimulating path.
Can you tell us a little about your background?
It comes from Odogbolu in the state of Ogun, Nigeria, but I spent most of my childhood in Ikenne-Remo. Growing up, life was simple and guided by values. My world revolved around home, at school and church. My parents have nourished my love for reading and instilled a strong discipline and moral integrity.
I started my education at the Balogun Model School Standard of Ikenne-Remo and I academically academically from an early age. I remember having been vividly assigned the first position in Nursery 2, a proud moment that blocked me.
During the elementary school, I was curious, a little stubborn and full of creativity. My teachers encouraged my enthusiasm, helping me to build a solid academic base. I constantly came out at the top of my class and I was called Boy of the Year to the degree.
People know 5.0 cgpa and 18 History of prizes. What is a part of your journey that people don’t see?
Behind that story there is sacrifice, pressure and loneliness. People admire the discipline, but not many speak of the emotional toll: moments of isolation, doubt and fear of being average.
There have been countless sleepless nights, missed events and rejected opportunities. People often can’t see hobbies and passions that have been set aside. The “yes” have come to the cost of many silent “nn”.
How was your daily routine at the Faculty of Law?
My routine was intense. On weekdays, I woke up early to study before the lesson. After the lessons and group meetings, I went directly to the library until 18:00 by 19:15, I would return to study until midnight, squeezing in about 30 minutes for group discussions.
The weekends were reserved for MCQ, the drafting of the tests, the revision of missed topics and the preparation for next week. I was not a person to study all night, but I had a good dose of late night sessions.
Have you ever felt tired, doubted yourself or did you want to give up?
Absolutely. The fatigue syndrome and impress has struck me several times. But I never thought of quitting. Every time I felt overwhelmed, I would do a short nap, sometimes 30 minutes, sometimes two hours.
I also saw failure as a step towards success. I focused on progress and continued to perfect myself, even when the probability felt stacky against me.
What helped you study better? Any trick THas the hat worked?
The repetition was the key. I have always read in front of the lessons as I would have read a novel: to obtain the feeling and flow of the topic.
I paid close attention during the lessons and took robust notes. Subsequently, I examined these notes together with the class materials.
From day 1, I followed the discussions religiously. The repetition helped the information, even when I forgot, came back over time.
What made you go on difficult days?
Faith, resilience and purpose. I remembered the past help of God. I said to myself: “You just need another push”.
But I wasn’t alone. My family, mentors, colleagues and teachers were part of my support system.
You have already talked about “resilience”. What does this mean You?
Resilience is more than lasting difficulty; is growing through it. It is about adapting, learning from failures and still choosing to move forward.
People see glory. What was yOur most lonely moment?
One of my lowest points was chastised in the classroom after omitting a vital point, despite my preparation. I wondered if I were really good enough. The waste also hit hard during that period, making me feel invisible despite my efforts.
Who was your greatest supporter and how did they help?
My family. They have always reminded me of my strengths, even when I couldn’t see them alone. Their encouragement kept me rooted and helped me to remain faithful to values such as hard work and perseverance.
What did you learn about yourself when no one was beating?
That real growth takes place in the shadows. My motivation was to come from the inside. I learned the value of consistency and the purpose compared to praise.
The quiet and invisible efforts are what built me.
How you manage the pressure that derives from success?
I see the success as a beginning, not a destination. I don’t let attention open me. I focus on learning to my rhythm and prepare myself for the next chapter.
What does success really mean for you?
Success does not concern only the prizes. It is about really making the difference: mentalize, create opportunities and leave the best people than you have met them. These are impact, not applause.
What do you hope that your story inspires in others?
That your background does not limit your dreams. I hope to inspire young people to work hard, be consistent, remain resilient and believe in their value.
My trip – from a humble background for the success of the law – is proof that it has never ended until it is over.
If I could talk to Busayo of 18 years for 5 minutes, what would you say?
I would tell him that the road will not be easy: there will be failures and insecurity. But I would also remind him that the character and resilience count more than control.
I would not ruin the joy of future victories. It needs to discover them alone
Finally, if I could leave a phrase on a billboard for each Nigerian student, what would say
A maximum vote is “maximum” not because it is impossible, but because it is reachable.
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