S.O. Samson, a 53-year-old Nigerian man, has demonstrated that perseverance and willpower can make even the most difficult goals come true. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), in Zaria, has finally awarded him his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree after a 33-year academic career that was full of challenges and disappointments. In appreciation of his remarkable accomplishment, he was also given a N1.1 million cash prize for his tenacity.
Samson’s path started in 1992 when he was accepted to study veterinary medicine at ABU Zaria. Nevertheless, he had to resign from the program at the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) three times: in 1992, 2002, and 2011. He persisted in his dream in spite of these frequent disappointments.
His difficulties went beyond his studies. He lost his mother in 2018, his father in 2000, and even a cherished daughter throughout the years. Samson persisted in his resolve to finish his education in spite of everything. He took the risk of reapplying to ABU Zaria in 2013, following years of uncertainty. Despite the fact that many of his old students were now academics, their support enabled him to continue.
After decades of hardship, Samson was eventually inducted into the veterinary profession on February 15, 2025. As he thought back on the loved ones he had lost along the journey, the ceremony was an emotional occasion. Many were moved by his tenacity, and Dr. Moses Arokoyo, President of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), gave him a N1,000,000 cash prize in recognition of his efforts. At the celebration, another dignitary contributed N100,000, making his total prize N1.1 million.
Samson was overcome with emotion and sobbed as he thanked God for the voyage that had tried him but never broken him. He claimed that although the trip was drawn out and difficult, it was all worthwhile. His tale is a potent reminder that no matter how long it takes, hard effort and persistence can pay off.
CREDIT: ALLSCHOOL, Allschoolabs
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