In a remarkable display of determination, intellect, and resilience, Aisha Widad Yahaya, a 24-year-old mother and wife, has achieved what many thought impossible – graduating with First Class honours from the Faculty of Law, Bayero University Kano (BUK). Her feat broke a jinx that had persisted for 35 years.

Aisha is not just a student. She’s a mother of one, the 18th child out of 25 siblings, and the daughter of the late Professor Dahiru Yahaya, a respected historian and former lecturer at the BUK. Her path to academic excellence is not just inspiring—it’s groundbreaking.

Early life and education

Born on July 3, 2001, in Ungoggo Local Government Area of Kano State, Aisha’s early education was typical. She attended Al-Azhar Primary School and later proceeded to Musa Ilyasu College for her secondary school studies. What was not typical, however, was the extraordinary journey that followed.

“I didn’t set out to study law,” she admits. “While in secondary school, I had to choose between sciences and arts. I went to my father for advice. He told me, ‘If you choose science, be ready to become a doctor. If you go for arts, then study law.’ I chose arts—and followed his advice.”

From lecture halls to nursery rooms

Aisha’s university years were anything but easy. As a non-boarding student, her day often started at the break of dawn, commuting from Ungoggo to the university—a daily trip that proved both physically and mentally draining, Weekend trust gathered.

“The lectures started at 8am, and the distance was no joke,” she says. “It was hectic, but I pushed through.”

In her fourth year, a new chapter began: marriage. Soon after, motherhood followed. Balancing the rigours of academia with the demands of marriage and raising a child added an entirely new layer of complexity.

“It was overwhelming,” she says, candidly. “There were times I doubted if I could make it. But with support from my husband, family, and mentors, I managed to keep going.”

Redefining the possible

BUK’s Faculty of Law had long maintained a daunting reputation: no student had earned a First Class degree in over three decades. When Aisha enrolled, she wasn’t aiming to challenge that legacy.

“I just wanted to do my best,” she says. “But in my second year, I saw that I had a 5.0 GPA. That was the moment I knew it was possible.”

With renewed focus and a growing network of encouragement, Aisha made her First Class ambition a goal—one she would not let go of.

Support systems: Behind the success

Crucial to her success was the unwavering support of her husband. “My husband played a major role,” she said. “He’s a lecturer in another department at the BUK, and he never stopped believing in me. He always reminded me, ‘You can do it.’ His belief gave me strength.”

She also credits her siblings—two of whom are law graduates themselves—as well as her lecturers, especially her Level Coordinator and faculty dean, for their constant guidance and encouragement.

“They were always there—pushing me, supporting me, cheering me on. I couldn’t have done it without them,” she adds.

The mentor’s Insight

One of her key mentors, Barrister Abba Hikima, a BUK Law graduate and practicing lawyer, recalls his first encounter with Aisha.

“She walked into my office during her internship in Level 200. I looked at her academic record—it was already stronger than mine at the same point. I told her then, ‘If you make First Class, I’ll get you a gift.’ From that day, it became a shared mission.”

While Barrister Hikima did not offer academic help, he provided what he describes as moral support and mentorship.

“She was focused, driven, and constantly improving. Every time we met, I’d ask if she was still locked in. Her confidence never wavered.”

Faculty speaks: A trailblazer for women

Aisha’s Level Coordinator, Asma’u Aminu Sani, describes her as a student of resilience and rare determination.

“She’s an example of what’s possible when a woman decides to rise above expectations,” Asma’u says. “She juggled marriage, motherhood, and school—a heavy load by any standard. And yet, she excelled.”

She often shared personal stories with Aisha to uplift her when academic pressure or personal challenges became overwhelming, Weekend trust gathered.

“She’s a quick learner, a good listener, and an even better fighter. Her success is historic, not just for the faculty but for all young women watching,” the coordinator added.

More than a degree

For Aisha, the First Class isn’t just an academic achievement. It’s a symbol of perseverance, a reward for years of sleepless nights, and a beacon for others—especially women—who dream of balancing family life with personal ambitions.

Her story has already begun to inspire.

“This isn’t just my victory,” Aisha says, smiling. “It’s for everyone who believed it could be done. It’s for every girl who dares to dream, even when the odds are stacked high.” (Weekend Trust)