Law graduate credits husband’s support for achieving first-class grade

Osun State Native, Lateefat Bolanta, Shares Her Journey to Double First-Class Honors in Law

Lateefat Bolanta, a proud indigene of Osun State, recently achieved first-class honors in Law at both Ekiti State University and the Nigerian Law School. In an interview with TEMITOPE ADETUNJI, she reveals how her boyfriend (now husband) supported her education and how she managed the demands of marriage, motherhood, and academics.

Can you tell us how you achieved your double first-class honors and from which institutions?

My name is Lateefat Olaide Bolanta, from Osun State, currently working at Ekiti State University. My dream to study Law began in childhood, inspired by my dad’s lawyer friend. My father supported this dream, and despite pressures to join the science class, I chose arts in senior secondary school.

After my WASCE in 2006, I applied to universities but faced financial challenges. I gained admission to the University of Ilorin in 2007 but couldn’t attend due to a lack of funds. My sister, studying Microbiology at the University of Ado Ekiti, encouraged me to join her. I reapplied and pursued a Diploma in Law at Ado Ekiti, completing it in over three years with a credit grade.

I continued to face admission challenges, but I eventually enrolled at the National Open University. Despite Law not being accredited, I persevered, working to sponsor myself. In 2016, I met my husband, who supported me financially, enabling me to start my studies at Ekiti State University. Balancing marriage, motherhood, and studies was tough, but I graduated in 2021 with a first-class, becoming the second person in the university’s history to achieve this.

How did you manage to balance family life and being a student?

Balancing the roles of wife, mother, student, and businesswoman was challenging. I had my first child in 2017 and another in 2020, whom I tragically lost. Despite these challenges, I graduated from Ekiti State University as the best graduating student in the Faculty of Law. I later graduated from the Nigerian Law School with a first-class in 2023.

Can you describe your childhood?

I had a normal childhood in an average family of seven with educated parents. I am the second child. There was no abuse; my parents believed in talking to us rather than beating us. They ensured we received basic primary and secondary education.

What motivated you during challenging times?

I learned graphic and web design, but my passion was to be a lawyer and advocate for gender issues. My struggles motivated me to give my best.

Your husband supported your education financially. How do you feel about that?

I advise that it’s not wrong to invest in someone you want to marry. Girls should be appreciative if their boyfriends help them.

How did you meet your husband?

We met while campaigning for posts at the National Open University. We exchanged numbers and got married in 2017.

How did you feel about your results?

I calculated my GPA from the 200 level, so my university result didn’t surprise me. However, my Law School result brought immense joy as I had pursued this career for 15 years, and achieving a first-class was a dream come true.

What study methods helped you achieve your goals?

I avoided procrastination and read daily, taking breaks when needed. Consistency and prioritizing reading were key to my success.

How did you manage your academics with marital duties?

It wasn’t easy. I balanced school, business, and family duties. My resolve to become a lawyer kept me motivated.

What kind of business did you do then?

I was into graphic design, website design, and printing.

Where do you currently work?

I received an offer from Ekiti State University and started working as an assistant lecturer. I plan to establish my firm in the future.

Did you face difficulties in your first year?

Not really, as I had a diploma in Law from the same university. The challenge was starting over at the 200 level as a married woman, but I adapted quickly.

Was earning first-class honors in Law easy or difficult?

It was challenging, requiring consistent effort and determination. My background in Law and a firm resolve to succeed kept me going.

Were there times you almost gave up?

Yes, particularly after losing my second child. My husband encouraged me, helping me to continue preparing for exams.

What was your CGPA?

My CGPA was 4.56.

Did you do anything differently academically?

I believe class attendance is crucial. I attended all classes and started studying from day one each semester.

What was your most challenging moment on campus?

Commuting daily from home to campus was challenging as I didn’t live close to the campus.

Did you have role models in the legal profession?

Yes, I admired Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, the first female Chief Justice of Nigeria, and Folake Solanke (SAN), the first female Senior Advocate of Nigeria. I also looked up to Dr. Babalola Abegunde, one of my lecturers.

Did you win any scholarships or awards?

No, I did not.

How would you have felt if you hadn’t graduated with a first-class degree?

I would have felt bad because I knew I gave it my best.

What was your husband and parents’ reaction to your achievement?

My husband felt fulfilled, and my parents were proud, calling me “our first-class lawyer.”

What advice do you have for current and future Law students?

Have passion for what you do, be ambitious, disciplined, and plan well. Attend classes, as your lecturers are the ones who set and mark your exams.