Covenant University First-Class Biochemistry Graduate Operates Phone Accessories Business at Alaba International Market
A recent social media revelation has brought attention to an intriguing career path chosen by a high-achieving Nigerian graduate. Onwuka Wisdom, who earned a first-class honors degree in Biochemistry from Covenant University, has been spotted running a successful phone accessories business at the bustling Alaba International Market in Lagos.
Social Media Discovery Sparks Widespread Discussion
The story gained traction when X user Ibukun Amosu visited the market and noticed Wisdom's store. What particularly caught his attention was a photograph displayed prominently in the shop showing Wisdom posing with Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder and chancellor of Covenant University. Amosu shared his observations online, expressing curiosity about why someone would invest significant time and resources in university education only to pursue what some might consider a conventional trading business.
"I was at Alaba International Market today," Amosu wrote in his viral post. "This Igbo brother graduated from CU as top of his class, set up a phone accessories shop and hung a picture he took with Oyedepo. He is making money every day, open and close his business the way he likes. My question is why spend 4-5 years and that money on school when he can just set up shop with the money from the start?"
Graduate Responds with Pride and Confidence
Rather than taking offense at the questioning of his career choice, Wisdom responded positively to the attention. He thanked Amosu for visiting his store and proudly introduced himself as Ambassador Wisdom, CEO of Ambassador Global Communication. He confirmed his academic credentials, stating he had earned his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with first-class honors from Covenant University.
Wisdom's response demonstrated confidence in his entrepreneurial journey, suggesting that his education and business pursuits are complementary rather than contradictory. His approach reflects a growing trend among Nigerian graduates who are creating their own opportunities in the challenging economic landscape.
Social Media Reactions Highlight Diverse Perspectives on Education
The online discussion that followed revealed varied opinions about the relationship between formal education and entrepreneurship:
- @c2sin4mi_ayinla emphasized: "Education is what remains in you if you have forgotten all you learn in school. Education doesn't really mean that one will work in an office but to apply what you learn to anything you do in life."
- @ChifeDr noted: "University education is necessary to expand one's knowledge and worldview. To add on perspectives and open up possibilities. It is very good when traders receive university education, it gives them a strong foundation."
- @king_leo4u observed: "That knowledge that he got through academics would have influenced the way he operates. Not a waste in my opinion."
- @UgoJ3 highlighted the strategic value: "He didn't waste 4-5 years. School gave him structure, networks, and options. Today phone accessories, tomorrow anything. Education is optionality."
Covenant University's Academic Excellence and Entrepreneurial Focus
The context of Wisdom's alma mater adds another layer to this story. Covenant University has been ranked as Nigeria's best university in both the 2024 and 2025 Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The institution is known not only for academic rigor but also for incorporating entrepreneurship into its curriculum, potentially influencing graduates like Wisdom to pursue business ventures.
This incident follows previous stories about Covenant University graduates achieving remarkable success, including Chidera Duru, who recently graduated as the university's best student with a CGPA of 4.97 in Chemical Engineering while simultaneously running her own business.
Broader Implications for Nigerian Education and Employment
The discussion surrounding Wisdom's career choice touches on important questions about:
- The evolving definition of success for Nigerian graduates
- The practical application of academic knowledge in diverse fields
- The relationship between formal education and entrepreneurial success
- Changing perceptions about "appropriate" careers for university graduates
As Nigeria continues to navigate economic challenges and employment opportunities, stories like Wisdom's highlight the creative approaches young Nigerians are taking to build sustainable livelihoods. His journey demonstrates that academic excellence and entrepreneurial ventures can coexist, challenging traditional notions about career paths for high-achieving graduates.
The conversation continues online, with many Nigerians applauding Wisdom's initiative while others debate the optimal relationship between educational investment and career outcomes in today's economic climate.
