A remarkable academic achievement has been celebrated at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), as a female graduate emerged as the best graduating student in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Safiyyah Temitope Ismael completed her studies with an outstanding Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.91 out of 5.0, earning her a first-class degree and widespread recognition.
Recognition and Awards
During an induction programme held on April 15, 2026, Ismael was formally honoured as the top student in her faculty. According to a Facebook post by Rasheed Haashim, who shared the news online, she received over 20 awards along with cash prizes. Haashim highlighted her dedication to her Muslim faith, noting that she wears the hijab, and sent a message to those who criticize the practice: 'Our Sisters in Hijab cover their heads in obedience to their Creator and not their brains. Hijab haters, how market now!'
A Family of Academic Excellence
Haashim also revealed that Ismael's elder brother, Umar Ismael, graduated with a first-class degree in English from the University of Ibadan in 2023. This demonstrates that academic excellence runs in the family. Ismael's father, Ustadh Ismael Busayri, is the proprietor of New Dawn Schools in Amukoko, Ibadan, and serves as the Chief Imam of Papua New Guinea.
Social Media Reactions
The post celebrating Ismael's achievement garnered numerous congratulatory messages on social media. Tola Idowu commented, 'Great my darling daughter, you will continue to dwell in Allah's Rahman. Kudos to you.' Ibrahim Ibn Adebisi prayed, 'Alhamudulillah for our sister, Barakallahu fikum. May Allah forgive her late mother's shortcomings and grant her Aljannat Firdaus, Ameen.' Latifat Abolanle Adeogun said, 'Allahuma Baarik... May Allah grant you long life with sound health to enjoy its benefits.' Kifayah Ibroheem Umuh Anas added, 'Barakallahu fikum. Seriously, I have been happy as I am reading at first, but when I got to her late mother, I shed tears as a mother. I pray Allah forgive her shortcomings, grant her bliss in Barzakh, and make Aljannat Firdaus her final abode. Also pray for myself that Allah make me live long in sound health and wealth to witness the success of my children.'
Previous UDUS Achievements
This is not the first time a UDUS student has made headlines for academic excellence. In a related story, Dr. Maimunat Suleiman, an indigene of Kogi State, emerged as the overall best student when the university inducted 122 newly qualified doctors. Dr. Suleiman was recognized for her consistent academic excellence and clinical performance, earning multiple cash prizes and commendations from the university management.
