LAGOS, Nigeria — Emmanuel Ahmadu, a Nigerian who failed the West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) 17 times, has urged youths to remain resilient and never lose hope, regardless of the challenges they face.
Ahmadu, recently honoured with two doctorate degrees in the US, shared his inspiring message in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday, June 23, 2024, in Lagos.
Known as ‘Mr. Voiceover,’ Ahmadu emphasized the importance of dedication and self-belief in overcoming adversity. “Seek out opportunities for growth, leverage available resources, and connect with mentors and supportive networks,” he advised.
“Remember, every setback is a setup for a greater comeback. Keep pushing forward, and your efforts will eventually yield success.”
Ahmadu’s journey from significant personal and educational setbacks to becoming a global advocate for mental health highlights the power of resilience and unwavering determination.
“My story is a beacon of hope for youths facing similar challenges, inspiring them to rise above their circumstances and make meaningful impacts in their communities and beyond,” he said.
Ahmadu’s life has been marked by extraordinary challenges. He attended 16 primary schools and 14 secondary schools due to family instability, sitting for the O’level examination 17 times over five years before passing.
Despite these hardships, he graduated in Mass Communication from the University of Benin (UNIBEN) in 2018, where he received recognition from the vice-chancellor as an extraordinary student.
His achievements were archived in the university’s main library to inspire hope in others.
During his time at UNIBEN, Ahmadu gained international attention, winning the International Award for Student Brand of the Year in West Africa in 2018.
He was also recognized as the ‘Most Innovative Student in Nigeria’ and ‘Media Personality of the Year,’ among other prestigious awards.
In the United States, Ahmadu has continued to make significant strides, earning numerous accolades, including the “Distinguished Student Leader with a Big Heart” from his college and “Outstanding Mental Health Advocate of the Year” by Active Minds.
On June 8, Ahmadu received an honorary doctorate degree in International Affairs (DIA) from Global Seminary University, New York, USA, in collaboration with GEPEA University, Portugal.
This prestigious recognition acknowledges his significant contributions to promoting peace, sustainable mental wellness, and hope globally.
Additionally, he was honoured as a Professional Doctoral Fellow by The Across Global Institute of Foreign Languages (AGIFL) for his outstanding leadership and global achievements in mental health advocacy.
Ahmadu’s remarkable journey underscores the impact of resilience and serves as an inspiration for individuals facing similar challenges, demonstrating that perseverance and dedication can lead to extraordinary achievements.
