Emmanuel Ahmadu, a Nigerian who failed the West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) 17 times, has become a beacon of hope for youths, urging them to remain resilient and never lose hope despite the challenges they face.
Ahmadu, recently honored with two doctorate degrees in the United States, shared his advice during a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday.
Known as ‘Mr. Voiceover,’ Ahmadu emphasized the importance of dedication and self-belief in overcoming adversity. “Seek out opportunities for growth, leverage available resources, and connect with mentors and supportive networks. Remember, every setback is a setup for a greater comeback. Keep pushing forward, and your efforts will eventually yield success,” he said.
Ahmadu’s journey from significant personal and educational setbacks to becoming a global mental health advocate underscores the power of resilience. “My story is a beacon of hope for youths facing similar challenges, inspiring them to rise above their circumstances and make meaningful impacts in their communities and beyond,” he added.
His educational journey was particularly challenging, attending 16 primary schools and 14 secondary schools due to family instability. Despite sitting for the O’level examination 17 times over five years, he eventually succeeded.
Ahmadu first gained international attention in 2018, winning the International Award for Student Brand of the Year in West Africa while studying at the University of Benin (UNIBEN). His story of resilience earned him recognition from the university’s vice-chancellor, with his achievements archived in the main library to inspire others.
Throughout his academic career, Ahmadu was recognized as the ‘Most Innovative Student in Nigeria’ and ‘Media Personality of the Year,’ among other prestigious awards. In the US, he continued to make significant strides, receiving numerous accolades, including “Distinguished Student Leader with a Big Heart” and “Outstanding Mental Health Advocate of the Year” from the Active Minds organization.
On June 8, Ahmadu received an honorary doctorate degree in International Affairs from Global Seminary University in New York, in collaboration with GEPEA University, Portugal. This recognition was for his significant contributions to promoting peace, sustainable mental wellness, and hope globally. Additionally, he was honored as a Professional Doctoral Fellow by The Across Global Institute of Foreign Languages (AGIFL) for his outstanding leadership and global achievements in mental health advocacy.
Ahmadu’s story serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of never giving up, offering inspiration to youths worldwide.
