"Hard Work Always Comes with a Reward” - Fabiyi Kehinde Victor, Best Graduating Student, Department of Political Science, OAU
Written by Ademola Eriife-Oluwasimi Boluwatife
DECEMBER 15, 2025 | 4 MINS READ
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor has emerged as the Best Graduating Student of the Department of Political Science, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).
In an exclusive interview, Fabiyi Kehinde Victor shares his experiences as an undergraduate at Obafemi Awolowo University, speaking on his academic journey, the challenges he faced, and the lessons that shaped his time in the Department of Political Science.
Interviewer: Congratulations on emerging as the Best Graduating Student of the Department of Political Science, OAU. How does this achievement feel?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: Thank you very much. It feels humbling. For me, this achievement represents years of consistency, discipline, sacrifice, and God’s grace. I’m grateful not just for the result, but for the entire journey.
Interviewer: Can you tell us about your background and academic foundation?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: I was born and raised in Ibadan, Oyo State, in a family that places a high value on education. I attended Golden Rings Group of Schools and Jeislo International School for my primary education, and T. L. Oyesina Model School, Ibadan, for my secondary education. I’ve always been an A student, and consistency has been my strongest academic habit from a very young age. Outside academics, I enjoy playing chess, engaging in intellectual discussions, socializing, and watching football.
Interviewer: Who would you say has been the biggest influence on your academic success?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: My mother, without doubt. She’s a teacher, and growing up, the saying “Omo teacher ma mo iwe” really motivated me. It constantly pushed me to strive for excellence in everything I did academically.
Interviewer: Why did you choose to study Political Science?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: I’ve always been fascinated by governments and how they shape societies, both in Nigeria and globally. I wanted to understand political systems and their impact on people’s lives. There wasn’t a particular role model or defining moment, although I once assumed most politicians studied Political Science. Looking back now, I have no regrets and I’m very happy with my choice.
Interviewer: How were you able to maintain such an outstanding CGPA throughout your stay in the university?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: Effective planning, time management, and consistency played a major role. I participated in social activities, but I never allowed them to interfere with my academics, especially during exams. I also maintained a strong GPA from my first year, and beyond my personal effort, I believe God’s grace was very instrumental.
Interviewer: Were there moments when staying consistent became difficult?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: Yes, there were moments when motivation dropped, especially with statements like “school na scam” and questions about the relevance of my course. Financial challenges, fear of unemployment, ASUU strikes, and prolonged academic disruptions were also difficult. Despite all these, I stayed focused, believing that anything worth doing is worth doing well, and that hard work always comes with a reward.
Interviewer: What were your favourite and most challenging courses?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: My favourite course was POL 322, Comparative Federalism, taught by Professor Mimiko. I scored 92 percent, and the course exposed the structural problems of federalism in Nigeria compared to other federal states. My most challenging course was POL 202, Constitutional Development in Nigeria, which required intense reading to secure an A.
Interviewer: Which semester stood out the most for you academically?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: My best semester was Part 3, First Semester, when I recorded a 4.83 CGPA, just short of a perfect 5.0 CGPA score. My most challenging semester was Part 4, Second Semester, mainly because of the difficulty in balancing academics with social and political engagements.
Interviewer: How involved were you in activities outside the classroom?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: I was quite active. I’m a member of the OAU Chess Club, I coached the FIBSU football team, participated in student politics, joined the Kegite Club, and attended various campus events. Spiritually, I worshipped at CACSA OAU, Family of Love, which contributed greatly to my personal development.
Interviewer: Tell us about your final-year project and research experience.
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: My project was titled “The Impact of Fuel Subsidy Removal on Obafemi Awolowo University Students.” It was inspired by the real-life effects of government policies on Nigerians, especially students. The literature review was challenging, but overall the process was smooth, largely because my supervisor, Dr. Agunyai, made it less stressful.
Interviewer: What were some of the toughest moments during your academic journey?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: Financial hardship was the toughest. There were times I survived on garri, and moments when I squatted at ETF with my twin sister and my friend, Oladepo. Despite these challenges, I remained academically focused. I’m deeply grateful to my parents, siblings, my twin sister, friends, my class representative Asiwaju, and my Part Adviser, Dr. Agunyai, for their support.
Interviewer: How has studying Political Science shaped your worldview?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: It has helped me see governance and society more critically and objectively, rather than from a vague or superficial perspective
Interviewer: What advice would you give to students struggling to balance academics and social life?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: I’d advise them to stay focused, prioritize properly, manage their time well, and seek help when necessary. Setbacks are normal, and it’s never too late to get back on track.
Interviewer: If you could speak to your Part One self, what would you say?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: I’d simply say thank you for choosing the right path.
Interviewer: What are your aspirations going forward?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: I hope to work in an international organization and contribute to policies that shape Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.
Interviewer: Any final words?
Fabiyi Kehinde Victor: I hope my story inspires students to remain resilient, disciplined, and committed to excellence.
