Ofonue Favour

Q1: How did you come to BMU?

A: After my secondary school, I sat for JAMB but didn’t perform well. I moved to Bayelsa to stay with my uncle since my mother is from there. I was planning to attend nursing school, but it didn’t work out. My uncle encouraged me to try BMU, and that was how I eventually found myself here.

Q2: What has been your greatest struggle as a student?

A: Last semester, a new course was introduced just two weeks before exams. It made me anxious because I had very little time to prepare. Thankfully, I managed to pass, but the pressure was overwhelming.

Q3: Has BMU ever frustrated you?

A: Yes, definitely. The biggest challenges have been lack of water and electricity. At one point, we had to trek all the way to the staff quarters to fetch water. It was draining and very frustrating.

Q4: Have you ever made a mistake as a student that taught you a deep lesson? And have you ever failed?

A: One major mistake I made was reading late and not revising early. Sometimes I’d go into the exam hall remembering I had studied something but couldn’t fully recall it because I didn’t revise. Now, I’ve learned to start early and constantly revise. It has helped me perform better. As for failure, I’ve realized it’s important not to be overconfident. You must be sure you really know a topic, not just assume you do.

Q6: Has anyone shaped your academic journey?

A: My elder sister has been a big influence. Even though she wasn’t physically present, she constantly called, encouraged me, and pushed me to do better. I really appreciate her support.

Q7: You mentioned you wrote JAMB more than once. How was that experience?

A: The first JAMB I wrote didn’t go well, and I was devastated because it felt like all my mates were getting admission. Later, I also tried nursing school but didn’t succeed. That season was tough, but it strengthened my spiritual life — I drew closer to God. By the third attempt, I studied harder, prayed more, and by God’s grace, I passed and finally gained admission.

Q8: Are you studying out of passion or purpose?

A: Initially, it was more about purpose. I felt my dream was connected to optometry, and the admission seemed aligned with that. Right now, I’m still walking in purpose, and I believe the passion will grow as I go deeper.

Q9: Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?

A: Academically, I see myself forging ahead, building my education to higher levels. I’m focused on growth and development, even if I don’t yet have the full picture of what else the future holds.

Q10: Why do you believe in God? Do you think religion plays a role in academics?

A: I believe in God because He has come through for me countless times — in my academics, family, and personal life. I’ve prayed and seen answers. I also believe life is spiritual. Reading alone isn’t enough; you need God’s help to truly remember and succeed. Religion definitely plays a role in academics.

Q11: If you were VC for a day, what would you change?

A: The first thing I’d do is ensure every hostel has a constant water supply. I also think Nigeria’s education system puts too much pressure on students, from early childhood schooling to restrictions during exams. The system needs to be less rigid and more supportive.

Q12: What’s your honest opinion about relationships in school?

A: Relationships aren’t wrong, but if they don’t add value academically, spiritually, or emotionally, then they’re a distraction. Not everyone will find true love in university, but some people do, and it’s not a bad thing. For me, heartbreak is something I fear, so I’ve been cautious. If I ever enter a relationship, it must help me grow in every aspect.

Q13: When do you think you’ll be ready for a relationship?

A: Not now. Before I consider one, I want to be balanced — spiritually, financially, and academically. Once I reach that stability, then I’ll be ready.