SAZU Best Graduating Student Shares Secret of Getting First Class

From Paul Orude Bauchi

Mohammed Abdulkaree Bayo, the Overall Best Graduating Student of Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Bauchi State, has attributed his record-breaking academic success to discipline, consistency, and strict avoidance of distractions, especially romantic relationships.

The First Class graduate who studied Agricultural Economics and Extension, emerged as the Overall Best Graduating Student with a record-breaking CGPA of 4.98, the highest in the history of the university.

This feat came to light during the combined 8th, 9th, and 10th convocation ceremony held on March 28, 2026.

An indigene of Bayo Local Government Area of Adamawa State, he stated that his focus from day one was clear: achieve academic excellence.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Fatimah Tahir, disclosed that the University produced 11,781 undergraduates, including 215 First Class graduates and 443 postgraduate students, describing the outcome as a reflection of the institution’s improving academic standards.

Prof Tahir announced that by his feat, Mohammed Abdukareem Bayo has won the prestigious Pro Chancellor Prize for Overall Best Graduating Student.

Speaking with our correspondent, the elated Bayo expressed gratitude for the achievement.

“I am profoundly grateful and deeply humbled. By the grace of Allah, achieving the highest CGPA in the history of the university is an honour I never imagined. This moment brings me joy, not just for me, but for my family, my lecturers, and the entire Faculty of Agriculture, who believed in me,” he said.

Prof Fatimah Tahir , Vice Chancellor of SAZU

Asked if he anticipated such success at the beginning of his studies, he responded in the affirmative.

“Yes, because I started with a realistic target CGPA from my first semester. I relied on key principles: discipline, consistent daily study, time management, and prayers. These were my guiding pillars,” he explained.

Bayo said his motivation was shaped early by a family friend, Dr. Ahmad Ahidjo, a medical practitioner who helped him secure admission and advised him to remain focused and excel academically.

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He attended Taro Alkam Academy, Fufore, for his primary education and Government Secondary School, Fufore, and credited his parents for their guidance and support.

On challenges, he noted that although he experienced moments of fatigue, financial difficulties were minimal due to support from his family.

“Like every serious student, I had moments of fatigue and the challenge of balancing coursework with personal responsibilities. However, I received financial support from my uncles whenever needed,” he said.

Looking ahead, Bayo said his immediate goal is to secure a fully funded Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, with a focus on econometrics, and contribute to national development through research and policy in the agricultural sector.

He also expressed willingness to take up an academic role if offered.

“Yes, many First-Class graduates are often retained as lecturers. If I am given the opportunity, I will accept, Insha Allah,” he said

On social life, Bayo emphasized the importance of avoiding distractions.

“Most people in my faculty knew I did not engage in relationships. I eliminated distractions and stayed focused. While others relaxed after achieving high grades, I maintained consistency, progressing from a CGPA of 4.90 in my first year to sustaining excellence through to my final semester,” he added.

Sharing his success formula, he stressed the importance of starting early and cultivating a genuine love for learning.

“Students should avoid distractions, stay consistent in their studies, manage their time well, and pray. Most importantly, they should develop a passion for learning, not just chase grades,” he advised.

He dedicated the achievement to his parents, Alhaji Abdulkareem Bayo and Hajiya Haiwa Bayo, for their unwavering support and upbringing.

Bayo also cited his uncle, Chairman of the Adamawa State Board of Internal Revenue, an accountant and academic, as his role model.

Advising aspiring First Class students, he urged them to remain focused and disciplined.

“They should stay consistent, work hard, and avoid distractions, especially unnecessary relationships. Even during my postgraduate studies, I intend to maintain that focus,” he said.