The first and the best

I graduated, officially

“...the certificate you receive today embodies your potential for impactful work, innovative problem-solving, and lifelong excellence.”

Those were the words of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor K. O. Adebowale at the 77th Convocation Ceremony held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, on the 11th of November, 2025. Yes, my convocation!

I graduated officially from the University of Ibadan yesterday, and it felt surreal. I actually did it. I wore the gown, and I felt like a scholar in my suit. I had imagined the day before yesterday, but I didn’t think it would be that gracious. Honestly, I felt like a king when one of the officials adjusted my tassel and when we were officially welcomed into the alumni body. Super surreal!

Before the Ceremony

Life has been hectic since I wrote my last paper as an undergraduate back in February. I haven’t had a full month to myself without something to attend to. When one task ends, another begins.

I wrapped up school in March, and April was all about the NYSC struggle — from registration to finally camping in July. Before then, I had started ALX professional courses, which became my new classroom. I completed the three-month first phase before camp, and it was such an interesting ride. I got introduced to a life I wasn’t used to, but it’s now a part of me I don’t think I’ll be letting go of anytime soon.

Then NYSC called, and I obeyed. My time at the Sagamu Orientation Camp was another memorable chapter of my life. I met wonderful people, and though the training was tough, I adapted. I joined the Orientation Broadcasting Service, the videography unit. Doing that never felt like I was camping. It felt natural, like what I do on a normal day. Camp started feeling like home whenever I was behind the camera. The respect that came with it was satisfying.

I’m usually reserved, but when I handle a camera, something in me shifts. I feel like another person entirely. That was my life at Sagamu Camp, and the 21 days passed before I even realized. Finding a PPA wasn’t a struggle either; I was posted to a conducive environment.

We returned home in the last few days of August for documentation and other necessary processes. Meanwhile, my classes resumed immediately after camp, so there was no real break.

Another exciting thing about my life right now is how my content class has sharpened my skills. At this point, I could fly a plane.

Life was busy until the first day of November. I was returning from a side gig; a two-day shoot, on a Saturday. I was exhausted from endless filming and just wanted to get home. After we wrapped up and said our goodbyes, I boarded a bus. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a bus of thieves.

My tired self didn’t notice anything unusual at first. We started arguing over the fare. They called a ridiculous price, and I refused. I demanded to be dropped, and they reluctantly agreed. I didn’t realize that was part of their plan. As the bus slowed down for me to alight, one of them quickly dipped his hand into my pocket, and before I could react, the bus sped off.

It was late, and all I had left was my bag and the little cash meant for transport. I was speechless. My phone was gone. I just focused on getting home. Thirty minutes later, I turned on my PC to contact the most important people at that point — my friend and colleague TJ, and our boss, who would’ve been worried sick if she couldn’t reach me.

I tried calling TJ, but he didn’t pick up. My fear grew. I sent him a message on Instagram and also texted his friend to relay what happened. Eventually, I reached him, and he was shocked. That night was the most traumatic night of my life.

I contacted my banks through email and block as instructed, but despite that, the thieves still managed to withdraw some of my money. Big thanks to Access Bank for that failure. I pride myself on being one of the most security-conscious people I know, yet Access Bank still let it happen even after I reported immediately. They blamed the weekend. That was when I realized how broken this country can be.

By Monday, I had sorted the necessary things. I didn’t get a new phone until Wednesday, and if there’s one thing I hate most, it’s setting up a new device. So exhausting.

All of this happened few days to my convocation. Honestly, I would’ve cancelled if I hadn’t already set a few things in motion. I had ordered a suit. What do you mean I wouldn’t get to rock that? Come on! Let’s go to Ibadan.

Still, the incident drained me; financially and mentally. I’m still not fully myself, but I hope I get over it soon.

Present

Now back to where I started. Sitting in ICC with my head held high, I realized how much of an adult I’ve become. From suffering such a big loss to experiencing a monumental moment almost immediately after.

This is me pleading with the universe to go easy on me. I’m new to this adult thing. Maybe I appear tough, but life should please pity me. I wouldn’t wish that experience on anyone. I know I’ll be fine, but the scar will always be there.

TJ asked how I managed to show up for work the following Monday.

Side note: I did the best edit of my life that day, by the way 😂😭.

I was hurting, but the edits were the only thing I could pour my emotions into. I don’t know how I did it. Maybe I was on autopilot.

If you ask me how adulthood is going, I’d say I’ve had a fair share of it, especially the part about showing up whether you feel okay or not.

My plea now goes to Allah. I haven’t come this far without Him. “With difficulty comes ease.” I know He’s testing me, and I give all adoration to Him. It could have been worse, but He came through. Seeing everything unfold at my convocation made me realize it was a day I wouldn’t trade for anything.

***

I’m sorry for not writing sooner. My life right now has taken a turn I once prayed for, and it’s quite demanding. I’m living the life I asked for, but I’m also trying not to be ungrateful to the One who gave it to me.

I think about you all every day. “Random” will always have my heart, and I hope you take me as I am whenever I show up to write.

***

I graduated from the University of Ibadan on the 11th of November, 2025. And honestly, I love the feeling. I’ve been basking in the “graduate feeling” since the ceremony and I am really enjoying it because I prayed for days like this. I did the work; the countless sacrifices, the moments I almost gave up and many more I can’t name rn.

I have never seen a greater miracle than myself and I mean that with every fiber in me. I might cry later, but for now “congratulations” can start rolling in.