For Muftau Mubarak Shittu Atunlushe, success didn’t come wrapped in comfort. It came through sweat, sleepless nights, and unshakable faith. The son of a palm oil trader and late driver, Atunlushe’s rise from washing cars to graduating with First Class Honours at the University of Ilorin is a story of grit, grace, and growth.
Q: Congratulations on your First Class honour. How does it feel?
Atunlushe: Thank you. It feels surreal, a dream come true. When I remember where I started and all the struggles, I can only say Alhamdulillah. This is more than an academic achievement; it’s proof that perseverance pays.
Q: You’ve often described your background as humble. What was growing up like?
Atunlushe: I lost my father when I was seven. My mother, a palm oil trader, became the sole provider. Life turned very difficult, but she never gave up. I learned strength and resilience from her.
Q: How did you manage schooling with such hardship?
Atunlushe: It was a struggle. I worked at a car wash after school and later at a bakery through the night. At one point, I worked in a block industry too. I knew education was my only escape from poverty, so I endured.
Q: What kept you going through those trying moments?
Atunlushe: My mother’s determination and my faith in God. I always believed my story wouldn’t end in struggle. Every challenge strengthened my resolve to do better.
Q: Why did you choose the University of Ilorin for your degree?
Atunlushe: Unilorin represents discipline and excellence. After my NCE, I wanted a university that shaped both intellect and character, Unilorin offered that and more.
Q: You also served in student leadership. How did that begin?
Atunlushe: (Smiles) I started as Special Assistant on Media to the Senate President of the Offa Students’ Union. Later, I became Senate President and, eventually, National President of the National Association of Kwara State Students (NAKSS). Leading that body was a privilege — it taught me responsibility and people management.
Q: Balancing leadership and academics must have been tough. How did you manage?
Atunlushe: It was all about discipline. I never lost sight of my academic goals. Sometimes I’d attend meetings all day and still stay up late reading. Focus and planning made it possible.
Q: You also ventured into journalism. Tell us about that.
Atunlushe: Yes, I’m passionate about media. I trained as an online journalist, reporting campus stories and youth issues. Journalism gave me a voice and a platform to advocate for accountability in leadership.
Q: What does this First Class mean to you?
Atunlushe: It means hope. For a boy who once washed cars and baked bread, this is God’s grace in action. It shows that no background is too poor to produce excellence.
Q: What message do you have for young people facing similar challenges?
Atunlushe: Don’t let your background define you. Every hardship is a lesson. Stay focused, stay honest, and believe in your journey. One day, your story will inspire others.
Q: What’s next after graduation?
Atunlushe: I have started my Master Programme at Al-Hikmah University Ilorin, I was also hoping to got a fully sponsor scholarship and continue advocating for education and youth development. My goal is to help build systems that empower young Nigerians to rise above their limitations.
Q: Describe your journey in one sentence.
Atunlushe: From washing cars to earning a First Class, my life is proof that faith, focus, and perseverance make the impossible possible.
