Determined Nigerian Lady Graduates with 4.94 CGPA After Working as a Cleaner

In an inspiring story that’s winning hearts across Africa, a determined Nigerian lady, Lasisi Romoke Adunbarin, has proven that perseverance and faith can break any barrier. She graduated with a 4.94 CGPA First Class in Mathematics from the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), earning her a spot as the third-best graduating student of the entire university.

Her journey from working as a cleaner to becoming one of Nigeria’s brightest minds is a testament to the power of hard work, discipline, and self-belief.

Her Journey: From Humble Beginnings to Academic Excellence

In 2021, Lasisi Adunbarin gained attention on social media after sharing photos of herself working as a cleaner to pay her university fees. Despite being mocked by some, she remained proud of her job, explaining that cleaning was her only means to support her dream of earning a degree.

“A colleague once asked how I felt posting pictures in a cleaner’s uniform. I told her it doesn’t matter — people who don’t like me won’t suddenly start liking me. That’s who I am presently, but I won’t be here forever,” she said.

True to her words, that determination became the foundation of her success story.

Staying Focused Despite the Odds

Born into a humble family as the first child, Adunbarin refused to let financial struggles stop her. She took on various roles, from sales representative to nursery teacher, before finally working as a cleaner. Every job she took brought her closer to her dream of earning a university degree.

Though she initially wanted to study Computer Engineering, she was offered Mathematics in 2019. Instead of being discouraged, she embraced the challenge and excelled beyond expectations.

“Mathematics chose me. I told myself the best way to prove I deserved the course I wanted was to excel in the one I was given, and with hard work, persistence, and God’s help, I did,” she shared.

Discipline, Consistency, and Faith

Adunbarin attributes her outstanding result, a 4.943 CGPA, to discipline, faith, and focus. She believes discipline was her greatest weapon.

“Without discipline, nothing can be achieved. My vision of a better tomorrow kept me going, knowing that every little effort was a step closer to my dream.”

Her unwavering consistency helped her rise to become the third overall best student in the 2025 UNILORIN graduating class, just 0.001 points behind the second-best student.

Beyond the Classroom: Passion for Technology and Mentorship

Her brilliance extended beyond academics. She volunteered as a Python data analysis tutor in her department and later served as a Data Science tutor at the Computer Science Academy Africa (CSA) Workshop at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, a fully funded experience that exposed her to global opportunities.

After completing her program, she expressed gratitude to everyone who supported her journey:

“I’m grateful to share that I finished with a 4.943 CGPA, just 0.001 behind the second best. I hope I made you all proud.”

Her Message to Young Nigerians

To young Nigerians and others from modest backgrounds, Adunbarin’s message is simple yet powerful:

“Don’t let your situation frustrate you. Do your work with joy and pride; never be ashamed of what you do. With faith, discipline, and belief in God, everything gets better with time.”

What’s Next for Adunbarin

Looking ahead, Adunbarin plans to pursue a PhD in a tech-related or data science field, using her expertise to create social impact and mentor others. Her story continues to inspire countless youths across Africa, a living proof that no dream is too big for those who work hard and believe.

Follow our Social Media Channels: