A young Nigerian refused to let blindness define his future. Ogunsua-Dixon Tijesuni overcame a brain tumour and multiple surgeries before emerging as JAMB’s top candidate for persons with disabilities.
LAGOS, NIGERIA — Ogunsua-Dixon Tijesuni, a visually impaired freshman at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), has emerged as the highest-performing candidate in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for persons with disabilities after overcoming a brain tumour and several life-changing surgeries. According to reports shared by education stakeholders, his achievement has inspired many Nigerians.
Despite losing his sight following complications linked to a brain tumour, Tijesuni remained focused on his education. Reports indicated that he underwent multiple surgeries and faced several health challenges before sitting for the examination. His determination and academic excellence earned him the highest score among candidates with disabilities in the examination conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Education advocates who highlighted his story described his success as a testament to resilience and perseverance. They noted that Tijesuni continued preparing for his studies despite the physical and emotional challenges that followed his medical condition. Supporters also commended his family, teachers and mentors for standing by him throughout his recovery and academic journey.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has continued to introduce measures aimed at giving candidates with disabilities equal opportunities during the admission process. Over the years, the examination body has expanded special examination centres and support services to ensure that visually impaired and other candidates with disabilities can compete fairly for admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions. Tijesuni’s achievement has renewed conversations about inclusive education and the need for continued investment in accessible learning facilities across the country.
The development means more attention is likely to focus on improving educational opportunities for persons with disabilities in Nigeria. Tijesuni’s success also highlights the impact of inclusive examination policies and demonstrates that physical challenges do not prevent academic excellence when students receive the necessary support. His story is expected to encourage other young Nigerians facing similar circumstances to remain committed to their education and personal goals.
