An inspiring story of perseverance and lifelong learning is making waves online, as a 75-year-old Nigerian woman, Rev. Mrs. Onikeoke Ayo Aregbesola, nears the completion of her PhD.
The viral clip capturing her remarkable journey has sparked widespread admiration and conversation across social media.
Aregbesola, originally from Igbara Oke in Ondo State, shared that after retiring from the civil service—where she worked with the Ministry of Health, she decided to return to school. Despite already holding a modern 3 certificate and other qualifications, she pursued her academic goals with renewed purpose. She began with a Bachelor’s degree at Crescent University in Abeokuta, followed by a Master’s degree, which she completed at the age of 71.
In an interview with BBC, she explained that her motivation came from a former teacher known as G.O.B., who once told her he believed she would become a professor by age 27. That statement stayed with her for decades and became a source of inspiration. According to her daughter, @gbemmyoke on Instagram, who is based in the United States, Rev. Aregbesola is now on the verge of earning her PhD—a testament to resilience, determination, and the belief that it’s never too late to chase one’s dreams.
The daughter wrote; “My mum went back to school after she retired at over 60years. She got her degree and got her masters at 71…. she is thinking of PHD now at 75😂😂😂😂😂. @ayoaregbesola.”
See screenshot below;
The 75-year-old elderly woman, during the interview with BBC, advised both young and old to hold on to their dreams, write them down, no matter how long, with God, it will surely come to pass.
Watch the video below;