FOLA rolls up to final-year project defence in style
Afrobeats singer FOLA, born Folarin Odunlami, became a trending topic after arriving at the University of Lagos (Unilag) for his final-year project defence in a white Escalade. Videos and photos from 30 July 2026 show the Afro-R&B star, known for hits like 'Alone' and 'Lost,' stepping out of the luxury SUV and walking into a lecture hall, surrounded by a crowd of students eager to take pictures and catch a glimpse of the singer.
Economics student and music star
FOLA is an Economics student at Unilag, a detail confirmed when an old chat between him and a coursemate went viral. In the screenshot, the coursemate reminds him about an early morning Economics test while he was away in London, offering rare public confirmation of his course of study. The singer has been balancing his studies with an active international music career, a fact noted by many fans.
Mixed reactions online
The entrance sparked a divided response across social media. Some users criticised his casual outfit, arguing that it showed disrespect to the institution and peers who adhere to formal dress expectations for project defences. Dapo (@Dxpo_) tweeted: 'Could have respected the thing by dressing like his peers. I know certain lecturers that won't allow this btw.' Others questioned the entrance itself, suggesting it was a status display rather than a necessity, with money affording some students flexibility that others lack.
A separate group of commenters labelled the moment a deliberate publicity move, accusing FOLA of using an academic milestone for online visibility. @Thegal121183753 wrote: 'He just wants to show off because I know he has not been going to school.'
Supporters defend the artist
Not all reactions were critical. Supporters argued that showing up for one's own project defence – regardless of transport or dress – is a personal achievement worth acknowledging, especially given the challenge of juggling university with a music career. The online conversation focused heavily on his arrival rather than the defence itself, with no public confirmation of its outcome or his grade.
Unilag and celebrity students
The incident highlights the intersection of celebrity and academia in Nigeria, where stars like FOLA face scrutiny for how they navigate university life. While some see his entrance as harmless, others view it as emblematic of privilege. Regardless, the event has cemented FOLA's ability to generate buzz, even in an academic setting.
