“Why I went back to school at old age.” Goddy Iwuoha.

Sixty-five-year-old Lagos based businessman Mr Godwin ChimaIwuoha has graduated from Lagos State University (LASU) with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and International Studies, proving that age is no barrier to the pursuit of education and personal dreams.Iwuoha, who was the oldest student in the Faculty of Arts, received his degree on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, during LASU’s 30th Convocation Ceremony.

Speaking on his achievement, Iwuoha described the graduation as the fulfilment of a long-held dream, saying his journey was marked by courage, perseverance, determination and an unwavering commitment to education.Before obtaining his university degree, Chima had earned diplomas in History and Diplomacy as well as Security Studies. He eventually returned to the classroom at the age of 60 to pursue his long-desired university education.According to him, the death of his wife on May 4, 2020, became a major turning point in his life. At the time, their children were still in school, and rather than allow grief to overwhelm him, he decided to pursue knowledge as a way of moving forward.

MrIwuoha said his late wife, who had obtained a B.Sc. in Political Science before her death, became an inspiration for his own academic journey. Three years after completing her degree, she passed away, but her academic achievement motivated him to complete his own university education.The new graduate, however, said his educational 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 the release of his undergraduate results.He expressed appreciation to his Head of Department, Professor Bash A., for his encouragement and guidance, which he said helped him take the next step in his academic journey.

From what Umuaka Times gathered, Iwuoha also identified Chief Marcel Duru SAN, as one of his major role models. He said Duru’s commitment to knowledge taught him that education and intellectual development remain valuable investments regardless of age or material circumstances.

Addressing youths of UbaUmuaka Ancient Kingdom, Iwuoha urged them not to allow poverty or difficult circumstances to determine their future. He encouraged them to acquire education and skills, establish businesses, embrace honest work and surround themselves with people who would challenge them to become better.He also warned young people against violent crime and other forms of criminality, stressing that crime destroys lives and futures and can bring pain, shame and suffering to families.

Responding to those who have questioned what he would use a university certificate for at his age, Iwuoha said his purpose was not simply to obtain a certificate but to become better equipped to contribute meaningfully to his community and society.

“At 60, I returned to the classroom. At 65, I am receiving my university degree. And now, I am pursuing my Master’s degree,” he said, emphasizing that his journey is continuing.

He dedicated the achievement to his late wife, children, mentors, lecturers, family members and friends who supported him throughout the journey, while expressing particular gratitude to ChiefDuru for his inspiration.Iwuoha’sstory carries a message of perseverance and lifelong learning, demonstrating that delayed dreams can still become reality when pursued with determination.

“Do not wait for the perfect time. There may never be one. Start with what you have. Learn. Work. Persevere. Believe in yourself,” he said.

At 65, Chima is now a B.A. graduate and by his own description, a lifelong learner who continues to dream, learn and move forward.The dream, he said, was delayed, but it was never abandoned.