53-year-old Nigerian man, S.O. Samson has proven that with resilience and determination, no dream is unattainable.

After a 33-year-long academic journey filled with challenges and setbacks, he has finally earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.

Dr. Samson’s pursuit of a veterinary degree began in 1992 when he gained admission to ABU Zaria.

However, his dreams were repeatedly crushed as he faced multiple withdrawals from the program—first in 1992, again in 2002, and later in 2011 at the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID).

Despite these challenges, he refused to give up. Muhammad Hashim Suleiman, a Facebook user who shared his inspiring story, described how Samson’s journey was filled with obstacles.

”Along the way, he lost his father in 2000, his mother in 2018, and even a beloved daughter. Yet, through it all, Samson held on to his dream,” he said.

In 2013, after years of setbacks, Samson summoned the courage to try again, reapplying to ABU Zaria. This time, he was determined to push through.

Many of his former classmates had already become professors, but with their encouragement and support, he persevered. Despite financial struggles, personal losses, and self-doubt, he refused to quit.

Finally, on February 15, 2025, Samson was officially inducted into the veterinary profession. The moment was deeply emotional, as he reflected on the loved ones he had lost along the way, wishing they were alive to witness his triumph.

Samson’s story touched many hearts, including that of Dr. Moses Arokoyo, the President of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), who honored him with an N1,000,000 cash award.

Another dignitary at the event added N100,000, bringing his total reward to N1.1 million. Overwhelmed by emotions,  Samson broke down in tears. ”The journey had been long and painful, but it was all worth it,” she said.