UNILAG’s 2023/2024 Overall Best Graduating Student, Samuel Badekale, has made history after bagging the highly competitive Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in Bio-membranes scholarship. The exceptional scholar, who graduated with a perfect 5.00 CGPA in Cell Biology and Genetics, stood out as the only Nigerian and West African chosen for the prestigious European Union-funded programme.
The scholarship will span two years and will take Samuel across three leading European universities — Université Côte d’Azur in France, University of Genoa in Italy, and University of Osnabrück in Germany. His focus will include advanced fields such as Membrane Biology, Neuroscience, and Experimental Medicine, areas that play a critical role in medical and scientific research globally.
Sharing the milestone on his official X (formerly Twitter) page, Samuel described the opportunity as a dream come true, writing: “2025 has been amazing in every way! Pleased to announce the next step in my journey: selected as the only Nigerian and West African for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in Biomembranes, studying across three world-class universities in France, Italy and Germany.”
Reflecting on his humble beginnings in Mushin, Lagos, Samuel expressed deep gratitude to God for how far he has come. He recalled being a young boy with little but a big dream — to explore the world, excel in education, and make a lasting positive impact on humanity. According to him, that dream is gradually becoming a reality through hard work, faith, and perseverance.
In his message to students and aspiring scholars, Samuel encouraged young people to never give up on education despite the challenges. He noted that academic excellence still remains one of the most powerful tools for moving from a local stage to the global arena. He urged: “Trust God. Hold your education tightly. Come out with the best grades possible, strive for excellence, because education is still one of the most powerful keys to move from your local community to the global stage. Education isn’t a scam. It’s a weapon. Use it.”
His remarkable achievement not only highlights personal dedication and brilliance but also shines a light on the potential of Nigerian students on the international stage. Samuel’s journey continues to inspire countless young people across the country and beyond.