Brilliant Nigerian Man Graduates with Double First-Class in Law, Wins 18 Awards as Best Graduating Student: Nigeria has continued to produce young people who are doing great things in academics. One of them is Benedict Ater, a hardworking and brilliant scholar who has achieved a rare and amazing academic success. He graduated with Double First-Class in Law and received 18 awards at the Nigerian Law School as the Overall Best Graduating Student.
His success story is filled with discipline, focus, and complete trust in God. From his university days up to the highest level of legal education in Nigeria, Benedict has always shown excellence.
Benedict’s Journey to Academic greatness
Benedict started his law journey in 2016 when he got admission into Benue State University (BSU) to study Law. Just like every student, he faced challenges and moments of doubt. However, he remained committed to his goals.
In 2021, he finished with First-Class Honours, making history in the process. He became:
- The first student in 14 years to graduate with First-Class in BSU Faculty of Law
- Only the second person in the 33-year history of the faculty to achieve it
- The holder of the highest CGPA ever recorded in the faculty
This amazing performance also earned him the Best Graduating Student Award of his set.
Benedict later explained that his journey was not smooth. He worked hard, kept believing in himself, and always prayed for strength.
Balancing Leadership and Academic Excellence
In his final year, Benedict did not only focus on his grades. He also served as the President of the Law Students’ Association of Nigeria (LAWSAN), BSU Chapter.
Many people advised him to drop the leadership position so that his results would not drop. But he decided to prove that a student can lead and still perform well academically.
According to him:
“I did not listen. I served and studied at the same time because I wanted to show that leadership and excellence can move together.”
He almost got a perfect 5.0 GPA in his 400-level second semester but missed it with a 69 in Law of Evidence. Instead of feeling sad, he took it as motivation and finished his final semester stronger.
From all his experience, he discovered three important lessons:
- Hard work brings results
- Believing in yourself is very important
- Advice is good, but do not let anyone limit your ability
Double First-Class at Nigerian Law School
After BSU, Benedict took the next step and attended the Nigerian Law School in 2024, which is known to be very tough. Yet, he still came out at the top.
He graduated again with First-Class Honours, and he was named the Overall Best Graduating Student among over 4,000 students from across Nigeria.
He also received 18 recognised awards, including:
- 🏆 Overall Best Student of the Year
- 🥇 Best Male Student
- ⚖️ Best in Professional Ethics and Skills
- 📚 Best in Property Law Practice
- ⭐ Council of Legal Education Star Prize
- 🎓 Most Promising Student of the Year
This made him one of the most awarded young law graduates in the country.
Benedict Speaks on His Success
While reflecting on the journey, Benedict said something very inspiring:
“The journey was truly rugged. But smooth seas never make good sailors. I spent long quiet hours reading with doubt in my mind. Excellence is not talent on display, it is character under pressure.”
He went ahead to say that the most important part of success is not the awards, but the values behind them:
- Discipline
- Hard Work
- Dedication
- Faith in God
He also thanked his family, friends, and mentors for believing in him every step of the way.
“Law school was perhaps my most challenging moment so far. I thank God and everyone who supported me. I believe the best days are still ahead.”
A True Inspiration to Nigerian Students
Benedict Ater’s success proves that great results come from focus and determination. His story will continue to inspire many young Nigerians who want to achieve greatness in their education and career.
As he begins his professional journey in the legal field, many already believe that he will continue to shine both in Nigeria and on the global stage.
Source: Campus Informant, Scholarship Region
