From Petty Trading to PhD - The Inspiring Journey of a Nigerian Woman ScholarWaka

From petty trading to PhD, this is the inspiring journey of a Nigerian woman. Despite her humble beginnings, Bridget Ujah-Ognuagu, a young Nigerian woman, has defied the odds to achieve the highest academic qualification—earning a PhD in computer science.

From Petty Trading to PhD - The Inspiring Journey of a Nigerian Woman - Bridget Ujah-Ognuagu — From Petty Trading to PhD – The Inspiring Journey of a Nigerian Woman – Bridget Ujah-Ognuagu

Her remarkable achievement made her the first-ever university graduate in her family and the first to earn a PhD.

Growing up in a modest household where financial struggles were daily, Bridget Ujah-Ognuagu learned early on that hard work and long suffering were essential for success. Her journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of education to transform lives.

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In Bridget Ujah-Ognuagu’s words, ”I remember at about age 8, I was already joining my mom in her petty trading; I would joyfully follow her to various bush markets on such market days. If I was not at my mom’s shop, I and my siblings would be on the farm with our dad, who loves to farm a lot. ,” she recalled.

Despite these challenges, Bridget remained determined to pursue an education. She attended community primary and secondary schools—the best her parents could afford at the time.

Her journey to higher education began in 2006 when she gained admission to study computer science at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Nigeria.

Through hard work and dedication, Bridget Ujah-Ognuagu graduated in 2010 as one of the top students in her class, proudly becoming the first university graduate in her family.

But her academic journey didn’t stop there. In 2013, she pursued a master’s degree in computer science at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

Balancing her studies with a full-time job and family responsibilities was no easy feat. She shared that, “I spent about 16 hours on the road every two weeks to attend classes while juggling a full-time job and family.”

Despite the challenges, Bridget excelled in her master’s program, graduating in 2015 with an outstanding cumulative grade point of 4.37—one of the highest in her class.

Bridget’s passion for education drove her to pursue the highest academic honor—a PhD in Computer Science at the University of Ilorin.

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However, this journey came with even greater challenges. She navigated her doctoral research while going through two pregnancies, balancing motherhood, managing her home as a wife, working, and pushing through academically.

Despite the difficulties, Bridget persevered, and in 2023, she successfully defended her thesis, earning her doctorate in computer science.

She hopes that her story of resilience and determination will inspire others. In her words, she added, “This is proof that you can achieve whatever you set your mind to!”

Bridget’s story is a powerful reminder that no obstacle is too great to overcome. No matter where you start, your dreams are valid, and with perseverance, hard work, and determination, you can achieve anything. Challenges may come, but if you keep pushing forward, success will follow. Let her journey inspire you to chase your goals relentlessly—you are capable of greatness!