Umuaka News24

Mazi Iwuoha Godwin Chima Nwa Nwadibia, an indigene of Uba Umuaka Ancient Kingdom, has fulfilled a lifelong academic dream after graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History and International Studies from Lagos State University (LASU).

The 65-year-old Mazi Iwuoha was celebrated during LASU’s 30th Convocation Ceremony held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, where he emerged as the oldest student in the Faculty of Arts.

For Mazi Iwuoha, the achievement represents far more than the acquisition of a university certificate. It is the result of courage, perseverance, determination and a dream that remained alive despite the passage of time.

Before obtaining his university degree, Mazi Iwuoha had earned a Diploma in History and Diplomacy as well as a Diploma in Security Studies, gradually building towards his long-held ambition of obtaining a university degree.

Mazi Iwuoha revealed that his decision to return to the classroom was strongly influenced by the death of his beloved wife, who passed away on May 4, 2020.

At the time, their children were still in school, and Mazi Iwuoha was faced with the painful reality of continuing life without his companion.

Rather than surrender to grief, Mazi Iwuoha chose to pursue knowledge.

His late wife had obtained a B.Sc. in Political Science before her death, and her academic achievement became an inspiration for Mazi Iwuoha to complete the educational journey he had always desired.

At the age of 60, Mazi Iwuoha returned to the classroom.

Five years later, at 65, he is now a university graduate.

Despite completing his undergraduate programme, Mazi Iwuoha said his academic journey is far from over.

He has already commenced a Master’s programme in Peace, Conflict Management and Security Studies at LASU, having secured admission while awaiting his undergraduate results.

Mazi Iwuoha expressed appreciation to his Head of Department, Professor Bash A., for the encouragement and guidance that helped him take the next step.

Mazi Iwuoha also acknowledged Barrister Marcel Duruchukwu, SAN, whom he described as his role model and a major influence on his pursuit of knowledge.

According to Mazi Iwuoha, Barrister Duruchukwu’s commitment to education demonstrated that knowledge is an investment capable of producing rewards beyond material wealth.

Speaking to the youths of Uba Umuaka Ancient Kingdom and beyond, Mazi Iwuoha urged them not to allow poverty or difficult circumstances to determine the direction of their lives.

He encouraged young people to acquire knowledge, learn skills, build legitimate businesses, embrace honest work and pursue education.

Mazi Iwuoha also warned against violent crime and criminality, stressing that crime destroys lives, damages families and can permanently ruin the future of young people.

“There is dignity in honest labour. There is power in education. There is fulfilment in pursuing a legitimate dream,” Mazi Iwuoha said.

Responding to those who might ask what a 65-year-old man needs a university certificate for, Mazi Iwuoha said his goal was never simply to obtain a certificate, but to become better equipped to contribute meaningfully to his community and society.

Mazi Iwuoha’s story is a powerful reminder that age should never become a barrier to pursuing a worthwhile dream.

At 65, Mazi Iwuoha Godwin Chima is a B.A. graduate, a Master’s student and a lifelong learner.

His dream may have been delayed, but it was never abandoned.

To God be all the glory.

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