By Abdul Lauya
In a remarkable endorsement of academic excellence and legal brilliance, renowned lawyer and human rights activist, Deji Adeyanju, on Thursday honoured two outstanding graduates of the Nigerian Law School with a combined cash reward of ₦8 million.
Mr. Oluwabusayo Ifonlaja, Esq., who shattered records by winning 18 academic awards, the highest in the history of the Law School, was presented with a ₦5 million prize.
Miss Maryam Abiodun Lawal, Esq., the second-best graduating student and the best graduating female student with 8 awards, received ₦3 million.
Adeyanju, through his law firm, described the gesture as part of his commitment to promoting merit and excellence in Nigeria’s legal profession.
He said the firm’s recognition of the two legal prodigies was not just a reward but a message, that hard work and consistency still count.
“This is our way of saying excellence matters. Oluwabusayo and Maryam have raised the standard, not just for law students, but for young Nigerians across all disciplines,” Adeyanju said during the brief reception at his Abuja office.
Legal analysts have applauded the move as a rare but needed morale booster in a country where exceptional academic performance is often under-celebrated.
Some who spoke with Eye Reporters have called for institutionalisation of such incentives across professions to counter widespread youth disillusionment.
For Ifonlaja and Lawal, the honours reflect years of sacrifice, intense study, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
Their triumphs are being celebrated nationwide as symbols of hope and proof that Nigeria’s education system, despite its challenges, can still produce world-class professionals.
Their story continues to trend across legal circles and social media, drawing admiration and sparking conversations about redefining the future of law practice in Nigeria.
