Timi Olagunju: From Ice Cream Seller to Harvard Graduate Despite UNILAG Hurdles.
Nigerian lawyer’s inspiring journey sparks calls for education reform.

Nigerians are celebrating the remarkable story of Timi Olagunju, a young lawyer whose determination and hard work have taken him from the streets of Lagos to the halls of Harvard University. His journey, now trending across the country, is inspiring many and sparking new conversations about the challenges faced by students in Nigeria’s educational system.

Timi Olagunju’s path was far from easy. He grew up facing financial struggles and, at one point, sold ice cream to support his education. Despite these hardships, he excelled academically and gained admission to the University of Lagos (UNILAG) for his postgraduate law studies. However, his dreams nearly stalled when UNILAG delayed the release of his academic transcripts—a problem that affected many students from the 2016–2018 law postgraduate set.
The delay in getting transcripts is a common issue in Nigerian universities, often blocking students from pursuing further studies or job opportunities abroad. For Timi, this obstacle could have ended his academic ambitions. But instead of giving up, he pushed forward, seeking every possible solution and refusing to let the setback define his future.
“I had to work as an ice cream seller to pay my fees, and when the transcript issue came, I almost lost hope. But I knew I had to keep moving forward, no matter what,” Timi shared in a recent interview.

Through persistence, community support, and sheer resilience, Timi finally secured his transcripts and was accepted into Harvard University. His graduation from Harvard has become a symbol of what is possible when determination meets opportunity, even in the face of systemic challenges.
Nigerians on social media have praised Timi’s courage and drive, calling his story a lesson in perseverance. Many are also using the moment to call for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s higher education system, especially in the area of transcript processing and student support.
Education advocates say that Timi’s journey highlights both the talent of Nigerian students and the need for better structures to help them succeed. “We have so many brilliant young people who just need a fair chance,” said one education reformer in Lagos.
As Timi Olagunju celebrates his achievement, his story continues to inspire hope and action across Nigeria, reminding everyone that with resilience and support, even the biggest obstacles can be overcome.
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