“Becoming the Best Among 7,000 Was a Reward for My Resilience” – First-Class Law Graduate

Driven by discipline, faith, and relentless focus, 23-year-old Oluwabusayo Ifonlaja rose from a modest background in Ogun State to become Nigeria’s Best Graduating Law Student, earning a perfect 5.0 CGPA and 18 awards after years of sacrifice, academic excellence, and a deep passion for justice.

Oluwabusayo Ifonlaja, Nigeria’s Best Graduating Law Student, shares how faith, focus, and sheer determination led him to emerge top among over 7,000 candidates.

Early Life and Education

Oluwabusayo hails from Odogbolu, Ogun State, but grew up in Ikenne Remo. Raised in a disciplined home where education and character were priorities, he began schooling at Standard Balogun Model School. His academic excellence was clear early on—he won “Boy of the Year” at graduation.

Growing up, he was curious, a bit stubborn, yet driven by a love for learning. He consistently came first in class and developed a strong foundation through encouragement from both teachers and family.

Family and Inspiration

At 23, he is the third of several siblings. Their close bond and supportive upbringing shaped his journey. Though he considered becoming a doctor, engineer, or footballer, his admiration for lawyers’ dignity and purpose ultimately anchored his career ambition. His father, focused on academics, discouraged distractions like football and instead filled his room with books.

Choosing Law

His calling to the legal profession came from observing injustices in his community and believing in the law’s power to defend and uplift. That belief turned into action when he gained admission to study law in 2018, graduated in 2023, and began Nigerian Law School in January 2024.

Law School Experience

Transitioning from Nile University to the fast-paced environment of Nigerian Law School was intense. The first four weeks were especially tough—what he calls “weeks of chaos.” However, his foundation of discipline and focus helped him adjust.

The Lagos Campus’s reputation for rigor didn’t intimidate him. Prepared for the challenge, he embraced it with determination. His daily routine was strict: early morning study, arriving hours before class, evening group meetings, library time, and studying until midnight.

Overcoming Challenges

Though no subject was impossible, certain topics were difficult. He combated doubt with persistence—rereading, seeking help, and deepening his understanding until clarity came.

Realizing His Potential

Using the LawSchoolPaddi app to prepare for exams, he consistently topped weekly quizzes. Peers nicknamed him “BGS” (Best Graduating Student), which motivated him further. It became clear he wasn’t just aiming for a First Class—he was in the running to be the best.

Achieving the Top Spot

Emerging as the best among over 7,000 students felt humbling. It was more than a title—it was validation for the late nights, sacrifice, and moments of doubt. But for Oluwabusayo, this achievement marks the beginning of a greater journey.

Hidden Sacrifices

Behind the recognition were unseen sacrifices—especially time. He gave up hobbies, rest, and most social activities. As a group leader, he juggled academic excellence with leadership responsibilities. The emotional toll was heavy, but he has no regrets.

Faith, Support, and Mental Resilience

Faith played a crucial role. In moments of fear or exhaustion, prayer grounded him. His family, friends, and study group formed a strong emotional support system. They shared the highs and lows, making the journey more bearable.

Handling Pressure and Doubt

To manage distractions and pressure, he reduced social media use, avoided comparisons, and focused on personal progress. Affirmations and conversations with loved ones helped him navigate low points. He embraced challenges as necessary for growth.

Awards and Recognition

At the Call to Bar, Oluwabusayo received 18 awards—six from Lagos Campus and four external. The most meaningful was the Council of Legal Education Star Prize, presented in the presence of his parents. He was nearly moved to tears.

Family Reaction

His family was deeply moved. Having witnessed his struggles firsthand, the triumph felt like a shared victory. The celebration wasn’t just about medals—it was about years of belief and sacrifice paying off.

Perfect Score and Perspective on Legal Education

He graduated with a perfect 5.0 CGPA. While he acknowledges Nigeria’s legal education is strong in theory, he believes more hands-on experience is needed—particularly in courtroom practice, client interaction, and legal tech.

What He Would Reform

If given the chance, he’d make practical legal training—moot courts, clinics, mentorship—mandatory parts of the curriculum rather than optional extras. This, he believes, would better prepare future lawyers for the realities of practice.

READ ALSO: Nigerian Law Graduate Achieves Double First Class Against All Odds

SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, PUNCH