Mercy, a graduating student of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), has touched thousands online after surprising her father, a tricycle driver, at her school park in Lagos. A video of the heartfelt moment went viral on TikTok in July 2026.
Graduate Prostrates in Gratitude
In the footage, Mercy runs toward her father and drops to the ground in a full prostration, a traditional Nigerian gesture of profound respect. They then share a joyful embrace with arms raised high. Her father's keke tricycle, the tool he used to fund her education, is visible in the background.
The clip was shared on her TikTok page, @horpeyemmy246. In the caption, Mercy detailed her father's daily sacrifice: every morning, he ferried students from the junction to school, charging 200 naira per ride, and still managed to cover her school fees. She recalled that when money was scarce, people advised she should leave school and work in a shop, but her father refused.
Father's Sacrifice Praised
Mercy wrote: "You gave everything you had so I could stay in school, and you supported me every step of the way. Dad, I am who I am today because of your love, your sacrifice, and your endless support." She dedicated her graduation sign-out to him, calling the milestone his victory as much as hers.
The video drew an outpouring of emotion from viewers. @renikejimi said: "ọmọh I saw you yesterday I was in your dad's shuttle. He truly love you oo. I pray he'll surely eat the fruit of his labor." @omolaraadetola931 added: "With happiness the real father still brings the token he had to spray her too. God bless you sir."
Widespread Recognition
@my life is a miracle commented: "You're a real source girl and your father is a perfect definition of a FATHER, many will never acknowledge that but it's shows the father stressed day and night just to make her a better self and not repeating same circle. God bless you sir and you shall reap the fruit of your labor sir AMEN."
The clip resonated widely, particularly among Nigerian audiences who recognized in the father's story a familiar kind of quiet, unglamorous dedication that puts children through school against considerable odds.
Related Stories
In a related story, UNILAG's best graduating student shared how he was rejected by the University of Ibadan, while another graduate staged a one-man protest over unemployment. Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the Lagos State University's (LASU) best graduating student opened up about her admission experience in an insightful interview.
