At just 19 years old, Ifeoluwa Odunayo Babayemi has made history as the overall best graduate of Anchor University, Lagos, for the 2023/2024 academic session. The Industrial Chemistry graduate achieved a perfect Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.0, a feat that underscores his dedication, faith, and hard work.
Born and raised in Oyo State, Babayemi began his education at Sterne Nursery and Primary School in Ikorodu before attending Federal Government College, Odogbolu, for his secondary education. In 2021, he gained late admission to Anchor University, where he would go on to excel in Industrial Chemistry.
Speaking about his journey, Babayemi attributed his success to a combination of faith, determination, and a holistic approach to life. “I acknowledged God in my life. I was always willing to go the extra mile. I studied beyond the classroom. I had healthy relationships with my lecturers and colleagues and found a sustainable balance in every aspect of my life—spiritually, academically, morally, and financially,” he told Daily Independent.
In his valedictory address, Babayemi expressed profound gratitude to the university leadership for fostering an environment that allowed him to thrive. He thanked the Chancellor, Pastor (Dr.) William Kumuyi, the Board of Trustees, the Pro-Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor, and faculty members for their support.
Babayemi also paid tribute to his parents, Engineer Isaiah Babayemi and Mrs. Mary Babayemi, for their unwavering financial, spiritual, moral, and academic support. He extended appreciation to his siblings, Oluwanifemi and Oluwafemi, whose belief in him served as a source of inspiration.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Babayemi revealed that excellence was not always his hallmark. “I was not among the top students in my secondary school, and I wasn’t even serious about my academics. My only goal was to perform above the class average,” he admitted.
However, stepping into Anchor University became a turning point. “Upon stepping foot on the vibrant campus of Anchor University, I found myself face-to-face with HIM (God)—a presence so captivating that it altered the very course of my life. It sparked a change within me, igniting a journey of self-discovery,” he shared.
Babayemi’s achievement highlights the power of perseverance, faith, and the pursuit of excellence beyond the classroom. His story serves as an inspiration to students across the country, proving that dedication and self-belief can lead to extraordinary success.