Former Cleaner Bags First-Class Degree in Mathematics
By Hajara Abdullahi
Rumoke Lasisi Adumbari, who graduated with a First-Class Degree in Mathematics with a CGPA of 4.49/5.00 at the recently concluded 40th Convocation Ceremony of the University of Ilorin, is one among millions of Nigerian youths who grew up without a silver spoon but was determined to succeed against all odds.
In an interview with BBC News Africa on Monday, Rumoke said her motivation to work hard stemmed from her family background. She added that she believes in the power of education and its ability to change her story from grass to grace. Determined to pursue her dreams, she took up teaching and later worked as a cleaner to support her education.
“I still remember the worry on my mother’s face when I told her I wanted to further my education. She has always been my greatest support, but I knew our finances couldn’t carry the cost of university. So, I promised her I would support myself by offering dry-cleaning and cleaning services when I gained admission,” she recounted.
She also reflected on her struggles through different phases before emerging victorious.
“Looking back, every stage from sales rep, teacher, and cleaner to first-class graduate and data science educator, shaped me into who I am today.
“My journey is a reminder that where you start doesn’t determine where you’ll finish. With resilience, faith, and hard work, things can get better.”
Rumoke’s story is a testament to how hard work and resilience pay off, showcasing the transformative power of education in shaping one’s future.
The rising cost of living triggered by fuel subsidy removal and the unification of the exchange rate has left many Nigerians struggling to make ends meet, with 139 million Nigerians living in poverty, according to a World Bank report released in October 2025.
The youths, who make up at least 60% of Nigeria’s 250 million population, are not left out of this quagmire. Lack of job opportunities and economic hardship have pushed many into social vices such as drug abuse, gambling, thuggery, internet fraud, and kidnapping.
Tertiary education in Nigeria has also become unaffordable for many youths, with thousands of graduates roaming the streets without jobs. Unemployment, compounded by decades of corruption, globalization, and strict economic measures by the government, has left many in pain, poverty, and penury.
