A young man who earned a first-class degree from Lagos State University (LASU) has achieved another first-class at the Nigerian Law School. Celebrating his double first-class achievement, he shared his inspiring story, revealing that he was initially admitted to study history and international relations, prompting him to retake the UTME. Reflecting on his journey, he highlighted three key factors that defined his path: grace, grit, and great grace.
Double First-Class Holder Shares His Journey
Afolarin Emmanuel Afolabi, a LASU graduate with a first-class degree, has now added a first-class from the Nigerian Law School. In a LinkedIn post in April, Afolarin disclosed that he was not initially admitted to his preferred department and was placed in history and international relations. This setback led him to retake the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), a decision he says changed everything. He attributed his double first-class success to grace, grit, and great grace.
His post read: "Grace, Grit, and Great Grace. DOUBLE FIRST CLASS ALERT! The story didn't begin with a First Class. It began with a 'No.' A few years ago, I wasn't even a Law student. I had been denied admission into the faculty I so desperately wanted. Instead, I found myself studying History and International Relations—but even then, I knew I wasn't where I was meant to be. So I made a decision: I would try again. I would sit for JAMB again. I would start over. That decision changed everything. Today, I am deeply honored to share that I have graduated from the Nigerian Law School with First Class Honours. This completes a 'Double First' journey that once felt out of reach: LASU — First Class Honours, top 1% of my cohort; Nigerian Law School — First Class Honours, top 1-2% of over 7,000 students nationwide. Between that 'No' and this moment was a journey defined by Grace, Grit, and Great Grace. Grace kept the vision alive when circumstances said otherwise. Grit carried me through the transition, the pressure, and the countless demanding nights. And Great Grace made the outcome far greater than I could have planned. What once felt like a setback became the very foundation of this testimony. To my family, mentors, and everyone who stood with me through the process—thank you for being my strength when it mattered most. This is not the end of the journey. It is the standard going forward."
Online Reactions to the LASU Graduate's Achievement
Legit.ng compiled some reactions to Afolarin's post. Fathia Adetola said: "My double barrel redscroller! I'm so proud of you." Anjolaoluwa Adesile said: "Esquireeeeeeeeeee!!!! Congratulations to you! I wish you success in the legal profession." Emeka Obegolu said: "Congratulations to you and I look forward to welcoming you to the Bar." Boluwatife Kolawole said: "Akanbi, Omo Olodo Ide. Congratulations, my Idolo. Double First fit you like maaaaadddd!!!" Winifred Oko-Inya said: "This reflects your determination, perseverance, grit, dedication, and God's grace. You made yourself and family proud, Congratulations Afolarin E. Afolabi."
Another Graduate Achieves First-Class at Law School
In a related story, an Imo State University graduate narrated how he bagged another first-class degree at Law School, despite finishing with a third-class from the university. He shared his excitement about making such an academic comeback, posting a screenshot from his portal showing a third class in his law degree but a first class from law school.
