A Journey of Resilience and Triumph
Olaonipekun Ibukunoluwa, a 33-year-old single mother, has achieved an impressive milestone by graduating with a First Class degree in Social Work from Babcock University in 2025. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and overcoming societal challenges.
In an interview with Open Conversations on YouTube, Olaonipekun shared her journey, highlighting how she turned a perceived setback into a remarkable triumph. She faced the stigma of being “too old” and a single mother but managed to achieve academic excellence.
Olaonipekun initially completed her OND in Science Lab Technology from Kwara State Polytechnic in 2013 with an Upper Credit. Despite not achieving a distinction, she remained confident in her abilities, stating, “I’ve always been smart. I’m still smart.”
The central crisis that motivated her return to education was becoming a single mother. She described the emotional turmoil of her situation, including contemplating abortion due to the pressure from her partner. However, after the child’s father abandoned her, she found strength in her son, Oluwadarasimi.
Olaonipekun faced significant challenges in her community and church, where she was shunned for her situation. She lost her leadership roles in her church, including choir and youth ministry. Despite this, her family and some friends stood by her.
After giving birth, she moved to Ibadan in 2016, taking on difficult jobs to support herself and her son. Her mentors, Pastor and Dr Mrs. Olare, encouraged her to return to school. In 2020, they urged her to start again, even though she was reluctant at first.
Despite her late start, Olaonipekun quickly excelled academically, but she faced setbacks due to negligence in handling necessary documents like the JAMB admission letter. During this time, she encountered discouraging advice, such as, “What’s the point? You’re old, just go and get married.” However, the Olare family advised her to pursue Direct Entry admission through JUPEB.
Olaonipekun passed JUPEB, allowing her to start at 200 level instead of 100 level. The years in school were mentally taxing, especially dealing with cruel comments about her age. She recalled instances where students called her names, making her feel frustrated.
A major challenge came in her third year when she felt emotionally and physically drained. She considered giving up on her First Class goal but was motivated by her son’s words: “If I’m getting first in class, why would you not get first? You have to get first, so all of us will be first together.”
Olaonipekun credits her success to her support systems, including her mother, sister, and friends. Her sister has been paying for her son’s school fees, allowing her to focus on her studies. She emphasized the importance of having a support system, urging others to value their networks.
She also challenged the stigma faced by single mothers, questioning why they hide their children. Olaonipekun stressed that her success was built on love and help, encouraging others to show effort and perseverance.
Olaonipekun’s story is part of a long line of Nigerian inspirational stories where individuals have defied circumstances and age to pursue education. For example, Abraham Oladebeye, at 43, graduated as the best student with a 4.94 CGPA at Achievers University. Similarly, Nwankwo Anyamaobi, at 41, earned a First Class degree in Economics at the University of Port Harcourt.
