Breaking the Jinx: How Michaelmary Chukwu Emerged as the 2021 Outstanding Graduate in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Ilorin

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

IKnown for its highly competitive admissions and rigorous academic culture, the University of Ilorin—fondly called Better by Far—continues to uphold its reputation as one of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions. Within its Faculty of Environmental Sciences, the Department of Urban and Regional Planning is regarded as especially demanding. Yet, among its standout graduates in the class of 2021 is Michaelmary Chukwu, who emerged as one of the two Outstanding Graduating Students.

Admitted in 2015 with an impressive JAMB score of 259 and a post-UTME score of 72, Michaelmary began his academic journey far from home, entering unfamiliar territory in north-central Nigeria. Despite these initial challenges, he quickly distinguished himself. In his first semester, he topped his class with a GPA of 4.33 on a 5.0 scale.

Dissatisfied with that performance, he committed to working smarter. By the end of his second semester, he posted an exceptional GPA of 4.77—reportedly the highest in the department. “I realized where I faltered—adjusting to the university environment and managing the crowded lecture halls was difficult,” Michaelmary recalled. “But by second semester, I had adapted and refined my study strategy. That made all the difference” he disclosed.

His academic brilliance earned him the prestigious University Scholar title—an honor reserved for students maintaining a CGPA of 4.00 or above. This merit-based award covered tuition, accommodation, and academic-related fees. Remarkably, Michaelmary held this honor for four consecutive academic sessions, a testament to his consistency and dedication.

His excellence was not limited to urban planning courses. In Architectural Design, he impressed even the Architecture faculty. “Your design was too good to come from Urban and Regional Planning—we thought you were in the architecture program,” said Mr. Aina Olorunjoba.

Praise for Michaelmary came from across the department. “You are exceptional and have all it takes to excel beyond the University of Ilorin,” remarked Dr. Raheem. Dr. Maimuna, past Head of Department and level advisor, added: “Your diligence to work and profound character resonate in your work ethic—may God Almighty continue to bless you.”
During his final-year thesis defense, his project was met with exceptional commendation. “This work is already a master’s thesis being undertaken by an undergraduate,” said Dr. A.B. Ola and Mr. O.T.B. Aduloju. Reflecting on the praise, Michaelmary stated, “This work reflects my long-term commitment to conducting meaningful research—even though I haven’t entered graduate school yet, I aim to contribute to science through impactful publications.”

Outside the classroom, Michaelmary demonstrated a strong commitment to professional development. During his 2019 internship with the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) in Abuja under TPL Moses Jaiyeola, he handled planning assignments with professionalism and initiative. Notably, he led tutorial sessions on AutoCAD, a key design tool, for fellow interns.

“Michaelmary teaches so efficiently, speaks eloquently, and goes straight to action,” said Mahmoud, an intern from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria. His tutorials left a lasting impression. “We had never used AutoCAD for layout designs—only ArcGIS in ABU—but Michaelmary showed us a new and efficient way to do it,” added Farouk, another ABU intern.

Now a proud graduate of the University of Ilorin, Michaelmary continues to build on his academic legacy. He is currently in touch with a U.S.-based professor about publishing his final-year research project, with approval from his academic adviser, Dr. Maimuna. “I’ll be heading to Delta State for my NYSC, but I’m also preparing to pursue graduate studies—possibly in the United States,” he said.

Michaelmary Chukwu’s story is one of determination, excellence, and impact. His academic brilliance, leadership, and commitment to personal growth have carved a legacy that future students of the Better by Far University will look up to for years to come.