Six female first class graduates from UNIZIK who also bagged first class honours in law school speak to OGHENOVO EGODO-MICHAEL and ANJOLA DAWODU about their time as undergraduates and how they graduated with flying colours

Integrity, hard work earned me two first class degrees— Alex-Uzoatu Fortunata

Tell us about your background and what inspired you to study law.

I am a double first-class graduate of both the Nigerian Law School and Nnamdi Azikiwe University. I am from Umugama, Umuchu, in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State. I had my primary education at Kristobell Junior Academy and my secondary education at Nigerian Navy Secondary School. I am a Christian who believes deeply in the providential hand of God.

I have an unconventional story behind my decision to study law. From primary school, I had always wanted to become a nurse. In fact, my mother had already bought me books on nursing, stages of pregnancy, and other child-care science materials, which I read with great interest. However, one day, my school principal came into our class and called out the names of students who had not paid their school fees. I was shocked to hear the name of one of my classmates. After he left, I asked her what had happened. She told me that a lawyer had taken all her father’s money while trying to recover his seized goods from the Nigeria Customs Service.

In my childish understanding, I thought it seemed admirable to legally take other people’s money. From that moment, whenever anyone asked what I wanted to become, I proudly answered, “a barrister.”

Were there any unconventional study methods or strategies you used that others might not expect?

I believe there is nothing entirely new under the sun, so my methods may not have been unconventional. However, my first “secret” can be summed up in three words: the right information. I made sure I understood each lecturer’s expectations, used the right study materials, and practised with past questions. This required actively making inquiries.

Second, I read ahead of classes, especially since some legal concepts can be difficult at first glance. This gave me a foundation before lectures and helped me connect ideas more easily. Attending classes was also non-negotiable. If there were 500 classes, I attended about 480. The remaining 20 may explain why I was close to a Second Class Lower in my first year. Classes helped me understand both the lecturer’s mindset and the coursework.

I also made extensive use of mnemonics to remember long lists.

Also, I believed strongly in repetition. I would read a topic multiple times, regardless of how many revisions it took. I also went beyond class notes to make my scripts stand out. My exam papers were often written in both red and blue ink, as is common in law exams. Importantly, I never left any question unanswered, even when unsure.

Lastly—and most importantly—there was the God factor. After each examination, I would pray over my scripts, my registration number, and for favour in the marking process.

Did you ever experience self-doubt, and how did you push through it?

Yes, I experienced a great deal of self-doubt. There were times I feared I might fail the Bar finals, even though I had prepared extensively. With the Nigerian Law School system, anything can happen.

Students are graded based on their lowest score, and to earn a First Class, one must have A grades in all five courses—Civil Litigation, Criminal Litigation, Corporate Law, Professional Ethics and Skills, and Property Law. With such a system, my doubts were understandable. I even cried at times because it felt like everything could go wrong.

However, I reminded myself that during my undergraduate studies, I had achieved a perfect 5.0 CGPA three different times. That gave me hope and strengthened my belief that I could succeed again.

What was it like combining school with work, internships or other responsibilities?

I am currently working at Banwo and Ighodalo as an NYSC Associate. While I was in school, I consciously kept my priorities in order. My scale of preference was: academics, competitions, internships, and extracurricular activities.

Now that I have completed my studies, I can devote my full attention to my work as a lawyer.

What habit or mindset contributed the most to your academic achievement?

I shunned all forms of examination malpractice, and this made me study with determination, knowing that failure was the only alternative if I did not prepare adequately. I often sat in the front row, directly in front of the invigilator, as a reflection of my confidence in honest preparation.

The key habits that guided me were diligence, perseverance, integrity, hard work, and trusting God.

I battled imposter syndrome to bag first class — Ajieh Chukwuamaka

What inspired you to study Law?

I completed my primary education at Graceville International School, Asaba, and my secondary education at Queen’s College, Yaba, Lagos. I studied Law at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, where I graduated with a First Class, and proceeded to the Nigerian Law School, Kano Campus, where I also graduated with a First Class.

I did not initially have a clear inspiration to study Law. Like many outspoken and bold children, I was often told I would make a good lawyer. Also, because I did not enjoy Mathematics and was unwilling to pursue a course I considered less prestigious, I embraced the idea of studying Law.

However, my passion for Law became genuine after I experienced injustice firsthand without the resources to seek legal redress for myself and my family. That experience shaped my perspective and solidified my decision to pursue Law as a meaningful career.

What was the highlight of your experience studying Law?

The highlight of my experience was my final year at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and my time at the Nigerian Law School.

My final year was the most stable academic session I experienced. I took courses I enjoyed and challenged myself with others like Tax Law. It was a turning point, as I finally operated at a pace that allowed me to thrive, leading to my best academic performance.

My law school experience, though intense, was equally transformative. Studying in Kano State exposed me to a new environment, diverse people, and different perspectives. It significantly boosted my confidence, as success required deep understanding and application, not just memorisation.

Excelling among peers from different universities also helped me overcome imposter syndrome. It reassured me that my achievements were earned through competence and hard work.

Were there gaps in the system or challenges with lecturers that tested your resilience?

Yes, there were. The academic calendar at Nnamdi Azikiwe University became extremely fast-paced due to efforts to recover lost time from strikes and the COVID-19 pandemic. At one point, we had four semesters in a year instead of the usual two. That was mentally demanding and made it difficult to determine whether I truly understood the material or was simply studying to pass exams.

Additionally, many lecturers were practising lawyers, which meant lecture schedules were often unpredictable. While this added practical value to our learning, it was challenging, as classes could be fixed on short notice.

What was it like combining school with work, internships or other responsibilities?

It was manageable because I focused on internships during school breaks, while virtual ones were scheduled conveniently.

However, balancing school with my fashion business was more challenging. I used my skills as a designer to earn income while studying. Despite this, I always prioritised my academics whenever there was a conflict.

What habit or mindset contributed the most to your academic achievement?

One key habit was going beyond surface-level understanding. I made a conscious effort to study concepts in context. For every legal principle, I read the relevant sections of the law in full, including surrounding provisions, to understand their scope and application. I applied the same approach to case law.

I also developed the habit of simplifying and paraphrasing concepts in my own words while preserving their meaning. This ensured I truly understood what I was studying and could express it clearly in exams.

Additionally, I maintained a positive mindset and surrounded myself with like-minded friends. My faith also played a vital role, helping me stay calm, focused, and grounded throughout my academic journey.

I didn’t compete with anyone — Emmanuella Otu

Tell us about your background and what inspired you to study law.

I am a double First Class law graduate of Nnamdi Azikiwe University and the Nigerian Law School, Port Harcourt campus. I am the only daughter, and I was born in Lagos State before my family relocated to the East, where I spent most of my life. I completed my primary education at the National Root Crops Research Institute, Umuahia, Abia State; and my secondary education at Federal Government College, Okigwe, Imo State. I graduated from Nnamdi Azikiwe University in 2024 and completed Law School in 2025.

Interestingly, when I was just two years old, someone told my parents that I looked like I would become a lawyer. They often reminded me of this as I grew up. When it was time to choose between Arts and Science in JSS3, many expected me to choose Science because I performed well academically. However, I took time to reflect, discussed it with my parents, and ultimately decided to study Law.

My dad would often call me a “mathematical lawyer,” expressing his belief that I would excel in any field I chose. Another subtle influence was a prolonged legal case that frequently took my father away from home. As a child, this bothered me, and I thought studying Law would allow me to “handle the case properly.” Looking back now, that reasoning makes me smile, but it played a role in shaping my decision.

How would you describe your experience studying law at the university?

It was a full and dynamic journey with many layers. From my first year, I was deeply involved in a wide range of activities, including faculty and university politics, competitions, clubs, mooting, and writing. I also ran a business alongside my studies.

That made me a very active student. There was always something to do, somewhere to be, or a task to complete. By God’s grace, I was able to navigate it all. It required courage, hard work, compromise, and resilience, but I am grateful that it all paid off.

Somehow, I still graduated with a First Class. Even I cannot fully explain how, but I believe that what seems impossible is often closer to reality than we think.

As a female student, did you ever feel the need to prove yourself more than your male counterparts?

No, I never saw myself as being in competition with anyone. I focused on my own journey and on expressing my unique strengths.

I believe that embracing femininity and recognising the power within it is key to defining our place in the world. In both my university and law school, I did not experience discrimination or limited opportunities based on gender. While subtle biases may exist in some environments, they were not significant in my experience.

That said, I would love to see more women in leadership roles, especially in academic settings, where they have the capacity to lead.

What does graduating with a First Class as a woman mean to you?

It is a reminder that there are no limits to what I can achieve. It is both an encouragement and a reward for years of hard work and sacrifice.

There were moments I could have chosen to relax, but I stayed committed to my goals. Seeing the results now is deeply fulfilling. I am also grateful to serve as a source of inspiration to others, especially young women who look up to me.

A first class represents excellence, but being a woman with a first class, represents legacy; and I am proud to carry that.

Achieving double first class changed how I see myself — Ndukwu Kaosisochukwu

Was there a defining moment when you realised you could graduate with a first class?

The defining moment dates back to my 300 level at the university. I had a revelation from God that I had been given academic dominion. Before then, I had been an average student in secondary school.

When that revelation came, it took time for me to fully believe it and accept that I could achieve a first class, and even emerge as the best in my class. But over time, that conviction grew stronger, and I began to run with the vision God gave me. I eventually graduated from the university with a CGPA of 4.84, emerging as the best in my class, the best female graduating law student, and the student with the highest recorded CGPA in my faculty at the time.

However, law school tested that conviction. I struggled with feelings of inadequacy, fear and constant worry. I cried a lot during that period because I felt immense pressure to prove that my university result was not a fluke. At some point, I even avoided telling people about my first class because I felt I was underperforming and didn’t want to raise expectations.

It wasn’t until after my exams that I regained my confidence. For four months before the release of the law school results, I was already giving thanks to God for a first class. Once again, God fulfilled His promise, and I graduated with a first class.

What inspired you to study law?

I grew up in an academic environment. My parents are doctors, and that experience played a significant role in shaping my academic journey.

I was not particularly outstanding academically while growing up. I struggled with Mathematics and needed extra coaching from my mother just to perform at an average level. I also faced some health challenges that affected my performance. Among my siblings, I was the lowest-performing during my early years, and I was comfortable with that.

My turning point came in senior secondary school when I published my first book, ‘If You Looked Inside A Girl’, which emerged as the first runner-up for the ANA/NECO Teen Author Prose Prize. That achievement made me realise I had potential.

Initially, I wanted to study English Literature because of my passion for writing, and I even imagined becoming a professor in that field. However, I was strongly advised to study law instead, as it was seen as a more prestigious and financially rewarding option. I eventually agreed, especially because I realised I could still pursue writing alongside law.

My interest in law deepened through reading legal novels, watching law-themed films, and observing the profession in practice. By the time I started studying law, I found it genuinely interesting. Participating in moot court activities and joining the Intellectual Property Club further strengthened my passion.

What was the highlight of your experience studying law?

One of the biggest highlights of my journey was being named the Best Graduating Student of my faculty in 2025, and also emerging as the Best Graduating Female Student in the university. It felt like a confirmation of everything I had believed and worked towards.

I vividly remember the joy in my home when a lecturer confirmed my final CGPA. My parents and I danced around the house. During my convocation, despite my preference for a quiet celebration, my parents went all out—they put up a large banner in my faculty, printed customised materials, and hosted a big celebration.

Another major highlight was successfully maintaining my first class and replicating that success at law school. Making my parents proud again meant a lot to me.

Did gender expectations shape your experience in any way?

Not significantly. I never approached my journey with the mindset of achieving “as a woman” or trying to prove a point. My drive came from a personal desire to discover my capabilities and meet the high standards I set for myself. My success was not about breaking barriers, but about striving to excel.

How has achieving a double first class shaped your identity and ambition?

Achieving a double first class has given me a strong sense of conviction that with discipline and focus, I can excel in any endeavour. It’s almost hard to remember the version of myself who lacked ambition or didn’t see herself as exceptional.

This achievement has raised my expectations for myself and strengthened my drive to pursue bigger goals. I am passionate about making an impact through my writing and in the academic space, and my results have reinforced my belief that these goals are attainable.

I am determined to reach the full extent of my potential, and I’m excited about the next phase of my life.

I refused to settle for less than excellence — Arumeze Chisom

Tell us about your background and what inspired you to study law.

I am from Akegbe-Ugwu in Nkanu West LGA, Enugu State. My parents are traders. Growing up, people often suggested different career paths for me. Many thought I should become a radio presenter, while others believed I was smart enough to study medicine. They were quite surprised when I chose the arts.

Truthfully, I was not entirely certain about the path I wanted to take. What I did know, however, was that I had a strong interest in protecting the rights of women and children. Academically, I performed well throughout primary and secondary school, consistently ranking among the top students. Despite this, I struggled with confidence and often downplayed my achievements. Whenever I came first, I would convince myself it was because the environment was not competitive enough, and that I had simply been lucky. I was afraid of leaving that environment because I doubted my ability to compete with what I considered “truly intelligent” people.

In 2019, my father insisted that I register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination. I was 15 at the time and initially resisted because I was unsure of what to study. He not only ensured I registered but also chose law as my preferred course. I made a personal deal with myself that if I gained admission into the Faculty of Law at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, it would mean I had competed with the best and proven I belonged among them. As it turned out, I got in.

Before then, I had no real interest in studying law. So, I would say my father’s desire to have a lawyer in the family—especially as the first person in his lineage to attend a tertiary institution—was a major influence. Of course, I also came to appreciate that law is a noble profession that opens doors across various industries.

Did you employ any unconventional study methods?

Not particularly. I stayed consistent, studied daily, and practised past questions, just as advised. I also taught others when I could, as teaching helped reinforce my understanding. These are fairly common strategies among law students.

However, one thing I took very seriously was rest. Our lecturers emphasised that fatigue and tension were major causes of failure. I made sure my schedule allowed for both study and adequate rest. On days when I couldn’t sleep, I deliberately relaxed by watching movies to ease anxiety.

I also surrounded myself with the right people and engaged in discussions, which helped deepen my understanding. Additionally, I focused on understanding how to present answers effectively, as I realised that knowing the material alone was not enough; presentation mattered just as much.

Did you ever experience self-doubt, and how did you push through it?

Yes, constantly. My doubt was not about passing the Bar exams, but about achieving a first class. From the first day, seeing others answer questions with ease made me feel unprepared.

After a pre-Bar exam where I lost marks due to poor presentation despite knowing the answers, my confidence dropped significantly. I began to dismiss the idea of a first class.

To overcome that, I started preparing for tests during weekends. That experience boosted my confidence and reignited my drive for excellence. Each week, I pushed myself to do better.

I also leaned on supportive colleagues and reminded myself that trying and failing was better than not trying at all. On difficult days, I engaged in activities outside my routine to lift my mood.

Above all, I committed my journey to God. I realised that fear limits potential, so I consciously chose to believe that achieving a double first class was possible, and that belief made all the difference.

What was it like combining law school with other responsibilities?

I was fully immersed in my studies during law school. I had a remote job before resuming, but I had to quit because it would have been too demanding to balance both effectively.

There was a particularly difficult period when my father faced a serious health challenge. As the first child, I felt a responsibility to step in, but my family ensured I remained focused on my studies by relieving me of those burdens.

Aside from that, I did not combine law school with other commitments. I dedicated the entire year to it, participating only in the required court and law firm attachments.

What habits or mindset contributed the most to your success?

One key mindset was aiming higher than the minimum. If I needed 70 to secure an A, I prepared as though I needed 100. That way, even if I lost marks, I would still meet my target.

I also surrounded myself with like-minded individuals whose progress motivated me to keep going. Another driving force was my desire to stand out.

Some people argued that a first class does not guarantee success, but my perspective was simple: neither does a lower grade. So, why not aim for the highest possible achievement?

Ultimately, striving for excellence gave me a deep sense of fulfillment and opened doors for me. I reminded myself that others had achieved this before, so it was possible. Despite my doubts, I chose to try, and I succeeded.

I was overwhelmed but didn’t quit — Ukwe Florence

What first inspired you to study law?

My name is Ukwe Florence. I come from a family of eight. My dad is a priest, and my mum is a lecturer with a doctorate in English. I am the fifth of six children, so I grew up in a structured, education-focused environment. Most of my older siblings went into professional fields, which shaped how I viewed career paths early on.

I was born and raised in Imo State, where I completed my primary and secondary education. I was a strong student, particularly in the arts, so I naturally leaned in that direction.

To be honest, there wasn’t a dramatic moment that inspired me to study law. It was more of a natural progression; law seemed like what top arts students pursued at the time. I was also influenced by my sister, who was studying law then and is now a lawyer. That exposure made the path feel more familiar and attainable.

What part of your law school journey stretched you the most?

The most challenging part of my law school journey was balancing academics with responsibilities I couldn’t put on hold. While many people focused solely on law school, that wasn’t my reality.

At the time, I was planning the a girls’ conference, which was quite demanding. I was also mentoring about 30 young women, meeting them every Friday for two hours. In addition, I served as Vice President of the Christian Law Students’ Fellowship of Nigeria. While those roles were manageable, the conference planning and mentorship were intense.

At one point, during court attachment, I broke down in tears in court. We were struggling with funding, plans were falling through, and at the same time, I felt guilty for not reading as much as I should. The pressure from both sides was overwhelming.

On top of that, law school itself demands daily consistency. There were days I was physically unwell but still had to read to keep up. It wasn’t just academic pressure; it was learning to function effectively despite everything else.

Another major challenge was the volume of reading. The workload is intense, as what you cover in a day in law school could easily take weeks in university. Initially, it was overwhelming trying to process and retain so much information. But over time, I adjusted, built discipline, and found my rhythm.

Did you ever experience self-doubt, and how did you overcome it?

Yes, I did. I think everyone experiences that at some point in law school.

One period that stands out was during chamber attachment. I felt I wasn’t reading enough, and it triggered panic. I remember going out with a friend one day, and when I returned, I broke down in tears because I hadn’t read.

That fear led to a cycle of self-doubt. I began forgetting even simple things, and that further shook my confidence.

What helped me was my faith. Prayer grounded me and helped me manage the anxiety. I also watched YouTube videos of first-class graduates sharing their journeys. Hearing their stories made me realise that my struggles were normal.

There was also a moment after a Criminal Litigation exam when I became extremely anxious about my performance. I had to step away, find a quiet space, and release the tension. After that, I prayed, calmed down, and moved on.

After the conference, I intentionally cut off distractions. I stayed off social media to maximise my study time. My mindset was simple: once I finished any responsibility, I went straight back to my books.

What habits or mindset contributed the most to your academic achievement?

One key habit was visualisation. Almost every night before sleeping, I imagined achieving my goal— telling my parents I made a first class, calling my friends, and celebrating the moment. Over time, it felt real, and that kept me motivated daily.

Another strategy was active recall. After learning a case, I repeatedly brought it to mind throughout the day by recalling facts, principles and applications. That helped with retention.

I also prioritised sleep during exams. Initially, it didn’t make sense, but I found that being well-rested improved my clarity and ability to analyse questions effectively.

Consistency was crucial too. I read every day and stayed engaged in class.

Finally, I constantly listened to testimonies of people who had achieved first class. I even downloaded and repeatedly watched a video of one graduate sharing her journey. It reinforced my mindset and kept me focused, especially during high-pressure periods.