Beyond Academics: How FUMSS Leaders Merged Spiritual Purpose with Professional Excellence
“My Prayer Was More than My Hard Work”, Journey of a 4.92 CGPA First-Class Graduate & Former Ameerah – Maryam Ibraheem
As a first-class graduate, did you set that goal right from the beginning?
Yes, from day one, I had a minimum target of a first-class. Even if I did not end up with anything extraordinary, a 4.5 CGPA was non-negotiable. I did not specifically plan to graduate with 4.92 CGPA or become the Best Graduating Student, but I definitely intended to graduate first class; that was always the plan.
Why did you choose Medical Laboratory Science?
I did not choose it; Allah guided me here. After secondary school, I had many ambitions, but the Nigerian university system delayed me. Medical Laboratory Science was not originally in my plans it was literally my last option. But today, I see clearly it was Allah’s plan, not mine.
I never wanted to study anything medical. In fact, I believed medical courses were for the extremely brilliant and in secondary school, I was just average.
I wrote my first JAMB and simply followed my friends, who chose Medicine, so I chose Medicine but I was still very young and did not pursue the admission. Second JAMB, I chose Radiography.
At some point, I wanted to be a teacher, then later, Nutrition & Dietetics. The only thing I was sure about was this I wanted a professional course, not a generic degree.
After COVID, my dad insisted on a private university to avoid strike issues. When we got to Fountain University, the only professional options were Nursing and MLS. I never wanted to be a nurse, so MLS became my path.
Now that you have been inducted into the professional world, how do you feel, and what contributed to your success?
In simple English, I am happy. Alhamdulillah. Coming from an average academic background, one of my silent goals was to make people proud of me, to finally receive prizes on stage after never receiving any in secondary school. That dream fueled me.
What contributed most to my success is quite a lot; Allah is my number one My prayers were more than my hard work. My parents, my dad was ready to go to any length to support me. My lecturers they taught, not just gave notes, they shaped us sincerely. And my circle of friends they were first-class driven. Their mindset disciplined mine.
Was there ever a moment you felt like giving up?
Giving up was never an option maybe a passing thought, but never a consideration. My mindset was always “forward only.”
What were your biggest challenges academically and how did you handle them?
One major challenge was definitely my project, very demanding. But my supervisor was incredibly supportive, which made things easier.
Also, returning late from clinical postings and still having to resume by 8 am at the hospital the next day was physically draining. But I reminded myself, this is my future reality as an MLS. That perspective kept me going.
You served as Ameerah during the 2023/2024 session. How was that experience and how did you balance leadership with academics?
That was the toughest year of my life. I would not sugarcoat it. I became Ameerah in 400 level, which is already known as the hardest year for 5-year courses. At the same time, I was also PRO of my department.
In first semester, I performed excellently even had 5.0 GPA. I got overconfident.
Second semester came with back-to-back FUMSS programs and responsibilities and I realized too late that I was not academically prepared. I had to rush read, and my CGPA dropped slightly, but looking back was it worth it?
Absolutely yes. Leadership taught me that there is no perfect balance you must be ready to sacrifice sleep, comfort, and time if you want to carry both faith and academics well.
What memory will you cherish the most as you leave Fountain University?
I cannot pick one but I know all my memories in the mosque are unforgettable. Anyone who knows me knows I basically lived in the mosque. The peace, the unity, the pure hearts, being among people of like minds was a blessing I will always cherish.
Leadership Is Not Something You Chase, It is a Trust from Allah— Adeboye Sodiq Akano Reflects on His Journey as FUMSS
Can you share your journey with FUMSS and how you became the Ameer?
My journey with FUMSS began right from 100 Level and lasted five years since I studied a five-year course. Everything happened purely by the will of Allah, I never lobbied for leadership. As Muslims, we should not see ourselves as naturally deserving of any position because leadership is a test. If Allah does not make it easy for you, you may regret seeking it.
I started as a Madrasa student. Within a few days, I was called by the Ameer at that time, Mallam Lawal Muhammad Akano, who is now pursuing his PhD in Malaysia. He played a major role in my leadership journey. I became a Madrasa teacher in 100 Level, later joined the student Imams, and also served as class representative for my department.
In 200 Level, I served as Assistant General Secretary (AGS). In 300 Level, I was appointed as Naibul Ameer. Then in 400 Level, by Allah’s grace, I became the Ameer. It was not an easy journey. People admire it from afar, but when you are truly intentional, you realize it demands sacrifice. Alhamdulillah, Allah made it easy for us.
How has this journey shaped your personal life and academic growth?
If I had not joined FUMSS from the beginning, I believe my story today would be different and perhaps regretful. After my first semester in the 100 Level, my results came out and I was very disappointed. At that time, I was class representative and departmental president, so the pressure was much. The Ameer then called me, motivated me, and reminded me that many people started low but finished excellently. That single conversation shaped me.
Also, the people in my circle were serious-minded. They had goals spiritually and academically. Whenever I felt relaxed, seeing them strive made me push harder. That positive peer influence was a blessing. Alhamdulillah, here we are today.
What is one thing you deeply appreciate about FUMSS?
FUMSS is first and foremost a family. You are never alone. Once you are actively involved, you automatically become part of a family that supports you spiritually, academically, and emotionally. We encourage one another even in acts like fasting Mondays and Thursdays. It goes beyond titles or roles; it is a genuine brotherhood and sisterhood.
As the Ameer of the 2023/2024 session, what was your leadership experience like? What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
Leadership comes with many challenges, not just one. The key is to purify your intention first once that is in place, Allah makes the rest possible.
Working with intelligent, outspoken executives means your ideas will always be questioned and that is a good thing. My Amirah and I, for example, disagreed many times not out of conflict, but out of passion to serve Islam better.
Some major challenges included: Logistics disappointments such as invited lecturers cancelling at the last minute. Low attendance at programs, for instance planning for 200 students and seeing less than 20 showed up. And financial struggles, fundraising is not easy. You print letters with your own money and receive little or no response. Despite it all, Allah made the journey successful. I remain grateful to every executive who contributed.
What cherished memory will you always hold on to as you leave Fountain University?
I spent most of my 500 Level in the masjid, truly, it became like a home to me. We even called it “Dr Awa Ibrahim Hostel.” It is where we laughed, planned, trained ourselves and stayed steadfast. That masjid shaped my life.
I will also deeply miss my inner circle F7, a group of seven sincere brothers who kept each other grounded. No fake lifestyles. If you are wrong, you are corrected. If you are right, you are celebrated. That kind of brotherhood is rare.
What advice would you like to give to all students, especially members of FUMSS?
What is worth doing at all is worth doing well. Always ensure you are on the right path. Continue pushing yourself until your goals become reality.
Secondly, guard your intention. As Muslims, the right intention earns us a reward even before the action is complete. Attach sincerity to everything you do.
To FUMSS members, remember, you are never alone. Rely on Allah first before relying on people. Explain yourself to Him, and He will open doors for you in ways no human can.
Balancing Qur’an and Academics Was My Biggest Test, but Allah Made It Easy – Giwa Halima
Can you tell us about your experience as a member of FUMSS? What has the journey been like?
My journey in FUMSS has been a very beautiful one, and it started at my 100 level. At first, it was quite challenging because I honestly did not know what I was signing up for; all I knew was that I sincerely wanted to serve Islam and Allah through FUMSS. I first joined Madrasa, and during Ramadan, I volunteered for the self-service.
It was very tasking, it was Ramadan, exams were near, and it was my first ever semester in university. Everything felt overwhelming. But Alhamdulillah, I scaled through and fulfilled my intention of serving Allah while growing academically and spiritually.
Now that you have been officially inducted into the professional world, how do you feel, and what do you think contributed to this success?
Right now, I have mixed feelings. I am happy to finally be done with these four walls to have the freedom to plan my life and move forward. But at the same time, I keep asking myself: what next? How do I navigate the future? There is excitement and uncertainty at the same time. What contributed to my success is Allah’s mercy first, and then consistency, discipline, and sincere intention.
There is a popular saying: “Work smart, not hard.” Which do you believe in, and how would you differentiate them?
I believe both should go together. If you only work hard without working smart, it is like reading an entire textbook for an exam but ignoring the key points. You are putting in effort but not strategically. If you only work smart without working hard, you may only focus likely areas and ignore some things that might still appear. So balance is key, work hard with wisdom.
What major challenge did you face during your academic journey, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge was balancing academics with my Qur’an memorization. I had other academic challenges, but I always believed Allah would make them easy. However, not abandoning my Qur’an while still performing excellently in my studies was the toughest part. It required strong time management, dedication, and constant renewal of intention.
What advice would you give to students who want to excel academically while also being active in FUMSS?
Intention is everything. If you join FUMSS just for recognition to be seen or praised, you will either lose motivation or become inactive very soon. But if your intention is purely for Allah, it will sustain you even through challenges. When exams are close and responsibilities weigh you down, your sincere purpose will keep you going. So my advice is to have the right intention, stay passionate, and always renew your purpose for Allah.
Allah Should Place Barakah in Everything We Do – Folorunsho Habeebullah
I am Folorunsho Habeebullah, and I recently graduated from the Medical Laboratory Science Department. Alhamdulillah, I have just been officially inducted as a Medical Laboratory Scientist. My hobbies revolve mostly around sports I play football, table tennis, board games, and I enjoy scuba diving and lawn tennis. Honestly, I love almost any sporting activity I like sports a lot, a lot, a lot.
How did you feel gaining admission into Fountain University for the first time?
Honestly, I did not initially plan to attend Fountain University. I had already gained admission into Achievers University and even paid an application fee of ₦25,000. But since we live in Osogbo, I remembered Fountain University and thought “Why not attend a Muslim university that will support my religious growth?”
I convinced my dad to allow me visit Fountain University, and with his consent, I postponed Achievers University and chose Fountain instead and Alhamdulillah, it was the right decision.
You are also an entrepreneur. What inspired you to start a business?
From my 100 to 400 level, I always wanted to start a serious business, but my parents kept advising me to prioritize my academics first. By 500 level, however, life got more challenging, and I did not want to depend on my parents for everything.
Since I already had basic fashion design skills, I launched Haysh Tee Collections, where I sell heels, sportswear, corporate wear, ties, shoes, jeans, shirts, and other men’s clothing. The state of the economy and the desire to be responsible as a man pushed me to start. I did not want to be the type who always turns to parents for every little need.
During your time in FUMSS, did you have any mentor or inspiration?
Yes. When I resumed Fountain University, I was already religious from secondary school I was a school Imam and Mu’azzin. One day at the university mosque, Imam Muhammad Lawal heard my adhan and was impressed. He called me to the FUMSS office, asked about my Islamic background, and continued inviting me to call the adhan and assist. Even though there was already a chief mu’azzin, I was appointed Deputy Mu’azzin and became the only male 100 level executive that year. That experience shaped me deeply.
How did you successfully balance academics and sports?
I have always been among the top students since secondary school, so I push myself to maintain excellence. In 100 level, I was not very serious but still had above 4.0 CGPA though I knew I could do better. From 200 level, I made friends who were library regulars, and that helped. At the same time, I was deeply into sports football, scrabble, lawn tennis, javelin, shot put, and more. I have over 30 medals gold, silver, and bronze and even won Sportsman of the Year.
I balance both by knowing my priorities I only go to the field when necessary, especially during competitions. Otherwise, I stay back to read.
What was your most difficult moment on campus?
In 200 level, only 6 out of 30 plus students in my set did not have carryovers it was a tough time. But we pushed through and eventually all graduated successfully.
My most painful moment was in the 500-level, second semester. I was very close to graduating with First Class, but received two B’s instead of A’s. I missed First Class by just 0.02. I cried for over two days. But Alhamdulillah, I accepted it as fate.
As a mu’azzin, what major challenge did you face?
The major challenge was low student attendance at the mosque. Despite Fountain being 97% Muslim, many still preferred praying in their hostels. We would go round hostels waking people up, call the adhan yet some would not show up. That lack of commitment remains a major concern.
Now that your induction is done, how do you feel and what is next?
I feel extremely happy, like I am on top of the sky. Initially, I was sad about missing First Class with 4.48 CGPA. But today, being called on stage and receiving two awards, I realized it is not only about grades it is about barakah.
Next is to secure a place for internship, which is compulsory before obtaining full license. It’s not easy in this country, but I trust Allah will open the way.
What did you love most about being part of FUMSS?
The love and unity. FUMSS is truly a family brothers and sisters supporting each other financially, morally, emotionally. People like Mr. Sodiq, Mr. Abdurrahman, Mahmood, Balqis, Ajia Maryam, Mr. Halim, Ajia Sumayya, Abdulhameed, and many others.
May Allah bless them all and reward their efforts abundantly.
Starting late did not stop me, planning, sacrifice and tawakkul helped me excel – Sakariyyah Biliqees
Can you tell us about your experience as a member of FUMSS? What has your journey been like?
I started fully in 200 Level. In 100 Level, I was a Madrasa student and always willing to help however I could. In 200 Level, I became the Female Da’wah Coordinator. Later, I joined the Madrasa team as a tutor. In 300 and 400 Level, I served as the Director of Studies, teaching Arabic.
What I learned is that FUMSS is not something you can do alone. I was blessed with people who shared the same values, vision, and sincerity and that made the journey easier. Yes, there were disagreements sometimes, but our intention was one: we were doing it for Allah. That sincerity always brought us back to the right path.
Now that you have been inducted into the professional world, how would you describe the feeling, and what contributed to this success?
It is a very emotional moment for me. I am extremely happy and grateful, but also nervous it is that mix of joy and responsibility. Alhamdulillah, the journey was not easy, so this moment feels truly special. At the same time, I feel a little sad because I will deeply miss the amazing people I met, my FUMSS family, friends, juniors, colleagues, everyone who made this journey beautiful.
There is a popular saying: “Work smart, not hard.” Which do you believe in, and how would you differentiate between them?
I believe in working smart. Hard work is important, but if it is not strategic, it may not yield results. You may have knowledge, but if you do not apply it smartly, it would not benefit you.
Working smart means combining intelligence with effort. It already includes hard work but in the right direction and with the right strategy.
What major challenges did you face during your academic journey, and how did you overcome them?
My biggest challenge was in 100 Level. I resumed very late about three weeks before exams. I was really scared. My first Biology class was even a test! It was only by Allah’s mercy and the little knowledge I had from secondary school that I could attempt anything.
I explained my situation to my lecturers and sought guidance. Then I doubled my effort. I read intensively, collected notes and handouts, and tried to catch up quickly. Within just two and a half weeks, we had classes and exams back-to-back. It was extremely tough, but Alhamdulillah I ended the session with a CGPA of 4.9 plus.
What advice would you give students who want to excel academically while also being active in FUMSS?
First, know yourself. Understand your strengths, your weaknesses, and when you are most productive. For example, if you study better at night, use your day for FUMSS activities and your night for academics.
Remember, Da’wah is for Allah and benefits your Hereafter, and academics are for your success in this world. Do not neglect one for the other; both are important.
Former Da’wah Coordinator, Fountain University Muslim Students’ Society (FUMSS) – Abdulrahman Abolaji
What was your first thought after receiving admission into Fountain University?
Honestly, my admission into Fountain University was not planned at all. I had no prior knowledge about the school. Things were a bit rough at first, but Alhamdulillah, since my arrival it has been a very good experience.
You are known as one of the notable scholars of your set. What was your toughest academic moment, and at what level?
My toughest academic moment was during 200 Level. The courses were plenty and very bulky, so I found it difficult to cope initially. But Alhamdulillah, I was able to scale through.
You are recognized for your skills in data analysis and tech. Can you tell us about your business and services?
Yes first, I am a website developer. And currently, I am learning mobile application development to broaden my skills.
Some people say you are into sports, others say you are not. Can you clarify what activities do you actually enjoy during your free time?
I am not really a sports person. But when it comes to football, I only play casually when we are few. I actually enjoy indoor games more, like Monopoly, Chess, and Scrabble.
There is a saying that “we must keep learning.” So why did you decide that now is the right time to learn how to ride a bicycle?
For me, cycling is just for fun like any other sport. I am not learning it for any special purpose; it’s purely for enjoyment.
What are some of the most cherished moments you will remember from Fountain University?
My most cherished moments are those I spent with my friends and my FUMSS family. The get-togethers, the moments we laughed and bonded, those memories remain special to me.
How was your experience serving as the former Da’wah Coordinator?
I was not someone people would call a “big Alfa,” but Alhamdulillah, I was able to contribute positively to FUMSS. I brought up ideas for different programs, encouraged people to participate more, and contributed to knowledge sharing.
What advice do you have for those coming behind you?
Put Almighty Allah first in everything. Never forget your true purpose in life. Take your academics seriously, and most importantly, learn to balance your Deen and your education together.
Website Designed by AAFAISOL, ©2025 All Rights Reserved.
Leave Your Comments