ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA — The First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, has earned a Master’s degree in Public Policy and Management from the University of London, 35 years after obtaining her first degree, in a remarkable demonstration of lifelong learning and personal development.
Mrs. Abiodun, who graduated from the University of Lagos in 1991 with a degree in Microbiology, received her Master’s degree during a graduation ceremony held at the University of London’s Senate House on Friday. The ceremony was attended by her husband, Governor Dapo Abiodun, her children, and other family members, who travelled to London to celebrate the milestone.
Speaking after the ceremony, an elated Mrs. Abiodun said the decision to return to the classroom after three decades was driven by a desire to deepen her understanding of public policy and to equip herself with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute more effectively to governance and community development.
“I have always believed that education is a lifelong journey. Age should never be a barrier to learning, and I wanted to prove that to myself and to others,” she said. “Returning to school after 35 years was not easy, but it was one of the most rewarding decisions I have ever made. I have learnt so much, and I am eager to apply this knowledge to the work I do in Ogun State and beyond.”
Mrs. Abiodun, who has been actively involved in humanitarian work and community development initiatives in Ogun State, said her studies had given her a deeper appreciation of the complexities of public policy and the importance of evidence-based decision-making. She said she would use her new skills to support her husband’s administration in its efforts to improve the lives of Ogun residents.
Governor Abiodun, who attended the ceremony, expressed immense pride in his wife’s achievement. He described her as “an inspiration to all Nigerians” and praised her determination to pursue her academic goals despite her busy schedule as First Lady. “I am so proud of my wife. She has shown that with determination and hard work, anything is possible. Her achievement is a testament to her brilliance, her resilience, and her commitment to personal growth,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of London, Professor Wendy Thomson, congratulated Mrs. Abiodun on her achievement, describing her as “a shining example of the value of lifelong learning.” She noted that Mrs. Abiodun’s decision to return to academia after a long hiatus was a source of inspiration to many mature students who might feel that the opportunity had passed them by.
Mrs. Abiodun’s achievement has been celebrated widely in Ogun State, with many residents taking to social media to congratulate her. The state chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists described her as “a role model and a beacon of hope for women and girls across Nigeria.” The association urged other women to emulate her example by pursuing their educational goals at any stage of life.
The First Lady said she plans to continue her education, with a focus on research and advocacy in the areas of maternal and child health, education, and women’s empowerment. She said she would also be launching a mentorship programme for young girls in Ogun State, aimed at encouraging them to pursue their dreams and to never give up on their education.
“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world. I want every young girl in Ogun State to know that it is never too late to dream, and it is never too late to learn. If I can do it at 60, you can do it too,” she said.
