From Mushin to 5.0 CGPA: UNILAG Best-Graduating Student Samuel Badekale’s Inspiring Journey

From the vibrant yet challenging streets of Mushin, Lagos, to the prestigious halls of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Samuel Badekale has redefined what it means to rise above circumstances. The 2023/2024 overall best-graduating student, from the Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, graduated with a perfect 5.0 CGPA, proving that background does not limit brilliance. In this interview, he shares how faith, resilience, and community shaped his academic journey.

Staying Consistent with a Perfect 5.0 CGPA

“I grew up in Mushin, Lagos, though I am originally from Ijebu North-East, Ogun State. My parents are pastors in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, and I give all glory to God for this achievement,” Samuel begins.

His drive was ignited after hearing of another Mushin native who emerged as UNILAG’s best-graduating student a year before his admission.

“By the time I gained admission, I had a clear vision: study hard, attend classes diligently, and aim to graduate as the best. Excellence starts in the mind; once your vision is clear, dedication follows naturally.”

Mushin: A Misunderstood Hub of Excellence

Often stereotyped, Mushin is widely associated with street life, but Samuel paints a different picture:

“Mushin is home to many academically gifted youths. In fact, several UNILAG best-graduating students have roots there. I joined a tutorial in Mushin where students studied for 12 hours at a stretch. Their discipline transformed me. That culture of focus prepared me for the demands of university life.”

To give back, Samuel co-founded the Skill Up Initiative, which equips secondary school students in Mushin with digital skills and career mentorship. Alongside another best-graduating student, he also donated textbooks to 82 students, proving Mushin can nurture world-class achievers.

Study Habits That Produced Results

Samuel highlights the techniques that worked best for him:

• Daytime reading: “I functioned better during the day than at night.”

• Past questions practice: “After every topic, I solved related past questions to measure progress.”

• Visualization and faith: “At the start of each semester, I prepared a grade sheet, prayed over it, and visualized my results.”

• Teaching others: “Explaining concepts deepened my own understanding.”

Tackling Difficult Courses

For Samuel, no subject was insurmountable.

“I sought advice from seniors, attended lectures diligently, and simplified difficult concepts. Time, consistency, and prayer made the difference.”

Overcoming Challenges: From Imposter Syndrome to Mental Health Advocacy

Despite his achievements, the journey wasn’t without hurdles.

“Balancing church leadership with academics was tough. Later, when I gained attention for maintaining a perfect CGPA, I battled imposter syndrome and social anxiety.”

In response, Samuel founded Students’ Mental Health Advocates in 2022, a club that partners with UNILAG’s counseling unit to combat burnout, raise awareness, and provide student support.

Motivation Through Pressure

The biggest motivation was the fear of losing his 5.0 CGPA streak.

“One ‘B’ would end it permanently. That kept me focused, even during burnout. Sometimes I took breaks, but the thought of what was at stake pushed me back.”

He also credits his department, which produced multiple high achievers, for keeping him motivated:

“We had two five-pointers, 14 first-class graduates, and dozens of second-class upper students. Being surrounded by such brilliance encouraged me to keep striving.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Badekale’s story is more than personal triumph—it’s proof that resilience and vision can thrive in any environment. His message to Mushin youths and Nigerian students is clear:

“Your background does not define your destiny. With discipline, faith, and focus, you can achieve excellence anywhere.”