01/07/2024
From adversity to triumph: Dr Anthony journey at Lead city university
I joined Lead City University in 2013 with the dream of studying accounting. However, my aspirations were dashed when I failed mathematics in my WAEC exams. Hoping for a second chance, I attempted NECO, only to face disappointment once again. With limited options, I was forced to choose between Mass Communication and Public Administration, a decision that left me heartbroken. I reluctantly chose Mass Communication, marking the beginning of an unexpected journey.
Initially, Mass Communication wasn’t my passion. However, my perspective changed thanks to the supportive lecturers I encountered in my first year. In 2014, I finally passed mathematics in GCE, opening the door to pursue my initial dream of accounting. Yet, the advice of my dear friend, Aramide Oyedepo, and amazing lecturers like Dr. Oyebola Ajibola and Dr. Ufoma Davies convinced me to complete my Mass Communication degree first—a decision for which I am eternally grateful.
During my time at Lead City, I immersed myself in campus life, taking on various leadership roles. I served in departmental leadership and hostel administration. In my final year, I became the president of the Student Representative Council (SRC). Additionally, I was the Secretary-General for the Nigerian Model United Nations Society (NIMUS), now known as Lead City University Model United Nations (LCUMUN), while also leading my department. My dedication to leadership was recognized when I won an award for ‘Exceptional Leadership’ at the Poise Dinner that year.
By my third year, my goal was clear: graduate with a first-class degree. My motivations were deeply personal. I wanted to transform the perception of my life from the mischievous boy I was in secondary school. An emotional encounter with an elderly man who worked as the security man of the hostel I stayed in and admired my behavior and wanted to name his grandson after me further fueled my determination.
As my four years at Lead City came to a close, I was honored as the best graduating male student in the school. The registrar informed me that I would deliver a speech at our convocation, addressing a distinguished audience that included the then Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, and the late former governor of Oyo state, Sen. Abiola Ajimobi. This marked the culmination of my undergraduate journey in 2017.
My affection for Lead City University led me to pursue a degree here, which I completed in 2020. My path to becoming a lecturer began during a tutorial class when my friend Aramide and others around us suggested I had the qualities of a good lecturer. This notion was reinforced by the former Vice-Chancellor, Prof. OlufemiOnabanjo who was my lecturer.
During my service year(NYSC), I worked as an assistant lecturer atMoshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, where my passion for academia blossomed. Influential figures like Dr. Funmi Alakija and Dr. Kolawole Amos shaped my journey. After a year at the polytechnic, I returned home and continued my academic career at Lead City University, eventually starting my PhD in Media Education and youth Political participation.
2024 has been a landmark year for me. I concluded my PhD on January 25th, 2024, and received multiple accolades, including the Best Lecturer of the Year award from the university management, and recognitions from my department, LCUMUN, and Lead City Voices—all within the first half of the year.
My story is a testament to resilience and the power of guidance. From a struggling student to an award-winning lecturer, my journey at Lead City University exemplifies how unexpected paths can lead to fulfilling destinations.
Written by: Dr. Amedu Anthony
… https://lcv24.wordpress.com/2024/07/01/from-adversity-to-triumph-dr-anthony-journey-at-lead-city-university/
Edited by: Lawal Ifeoluwa
Editor in chief
Lead city university
Lead city voices