UNILORIN English Department Celebrates First-Ever First-Class Graduates
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has reached a significant milestone as its Department of English proudly announces the graduation of its first students with first-class honors, marking a remarkable achievement in the department’s history.
Babatunde Olalekan Ibrahim and Lawal Selimoh Yetunde have both graduated with exceptional distinctions, a milestone previously deemed elusive within the department.
Historically, the English Department, one of the oldest in the Faculty of Arts, had not produced any first-class graduates, even as other faculties at the university maintained a strong reputation for academic excellence. Many promising students had come close but ultimately fell short. With this achievement, Ibrahim and Yetunde have changed that narrative.
A senior lecturer in the department reflected on the significance of this achievement, describing it as “a proud moment that will inspire generations to come.” The lecturer noted, “These two have shown that with dedication, perseverance, and courage, obstacles can be overcome. Their names will be etched in this department’s history.”
Babatunde Olalekan Ibrahim is recognized among his peers for his diligence and commitment to his studies. He has consistently excelled in both coursework and research, demonstrating a deep passion for literature and linguistics. Classmates remember him for his leadership during group projects and his dedication to mentoring others. Outside of academics, Ibrahim is engaged in community development and aspires to pursue postgraduate studies in English Language and Comparative Literature, with a long-term goal of becoming a university lecturer and contributing to language research in Nigeria.
Lawal Selimoh Yetunde’s story is equally compelling. Her determination and resilience shone through as she balanced academic challenges with personal commitments. Her lecturers describe her as a “focused and fearless young woman” who distinguished herself in presentations and debates. With a keen interest in gender studies and African literature, Yetunde plans to further her education with a master’s degree, aiming to become a writer and researcher who amplifies African voices on the global stage.
This achievement has ignited celebrations throughout the university community. Fellow students in the Faculty of Arts have hailed the duo as role models, while alumni have expressed pride in seeing the English Department finally recognized alongside other faculties known for their first-class graduates.
Founded in 1975, UNILORIN is celebrated as one of Nigeria’s most disciplined and competitive institutions. The English Department’s recent success aligns seamlessly with the university’s longstanding tradition of academic excellence.
