UNIBEN Student's Viral Stand: Education Over Cryptocurrency Wealth
A young Nigerian student from the University of Benin (UNIBEN) has captured significant attention across social media platforms after making a bold declaration about academic achievement versus cryptocurrency wealth.
The Viral Video Interview
In a TikTok video posted by user @frankkkkkk57, the UNIBEN student was approached on campus and presented with a hypothetical choice: receiving 1,000 Bitcoin (BTC) or graduating with a first-class honors degree. Without any hesitation, the young lady firmly selected the academic achievement over the substantial cryptocurrency windfall.
When asked to explain her reasoning, she provided a thoughtful response that has since resonated with many viewers. "I chose first class over 1,000 BTC because money can come and go, but education and respect last a lifetime," she stated clearly in the video that has now circulated widely across multiple platforms.
Social Media Reactions and Financial Calculations
The student's decision has sparked intense debate and diverse reactions across social media channels, with many users performing detailed financial calculations to illustrate the magnitude of what she declined.
- Several commenters pointed out the current market value of Bitcoin, with one user noting: "1,000 BTC = ₦131.4 billion. Go come and go somebody say asin how na."
- Another user calculated: "In USD: 1,000 BTC × $90,500 ≈ $90,500,000 USD. In Naira: $90,500,000 USD × ₦1,450 ≈ ₦131,225,000,000 NGN."
- Some respondents expressed disbelief at her choice, with comments like: "After I collect the 1000btc I go buy the school buy certificate join" and "Let's do the calculation, 1 btc =₦120M, 1000 btc =₦120Billion I go buy the full uniben."
- Other users questioned the academic level of those making such choices, suggesting: "Are they all 100 level students?? Because what the hell" and "They're all 100 level students."
The Broader Context of Academic Excellence
This viral moment occurs within a broader Nigerian context where academic achievement continues to be highly valued, despite the growing popularity of cryptocurrency investments among young people. The student's statement highlights an ongoing tension between traditional educational values and emerging digital wealth opportunities.
Recent stories from other Nigerian universities demonstrate similar celebrations of academic excellence. A Lagos State University (LASU) graduate recently made headlines for achieving a remarkable CGPA of 4.93 in Biochemistry, while a Babcock University student graduated with first-class honors in International Law and Diplomacy.
The UNIBEN student's viral response has ignited conversations about:
- The relative value of formal education versus immediate financial gain
- The long-term benefits of academic achievement in Nigerian society
- Generational differences in approaching wealth and success
- The symbolic importance of respect and educational attainment
As the video continues to circulate, it serves as a cultural touchpoint for discussions about priorities among Nigerian youth, the evolving definition of success, and the enduring significance of educational accomplishment in an increasingly digital economy.
