Posted by Chinenye on Fri 07th Aug, 2026 - tori.ng
After years away from the classroom, a determined woman has achieved a remarkable milestone, proving that age and responsibilities could not stop her from pursuing a lifelong ambition.
(Damilola Odukoya. Photo Credit: Nation News)
Dr. Damilola Odukoya has shared an amazing story about returning to school aged 37, over two decades after her initial JAMB attempt, to pursue her dream of becoming a medical doctor.
Odukoya was already married, a mother of three, and employed full-time as a laboratory technician in a hospital.
Despite her established work and family commitments, she decided to retake JAMB and was eventually admitted to the University of Lagos to study Medicine.
Her medical school path was fraught with difficulties because she had to balance her studies with raising three children, one of whom was still a baby.
She also took a study leave from job to concentrate solely on her medical education.
Odukoya, who was far older than most of her peers, was lovingly referred to as "Mummy" by several of her younger colleagues.
Despite her age and circumstances, she refused to be discouraged.
Her journey also included personal hurdles, such as waiting five years after marriage before having her first child.
Her husband, Abiodun Odukoya, has always supported and encouraged her as she pursues her dreams.
Odukoya graduated from the University of Lagos College of Medicine in 2022, after years of intensive study, sacrifice, and persistence.