University of Abuja Celebrates 85-Year-Old PhD Graduate, Dr. Christiana Akpunonu

The University of Abuja has held up Dr. Christiana Akpunonu as a beacon of lifelong learning and resilience following her attainment of a PhD in Media Arts at the age of 85. Her graduation marks the fulfillment of a decades-long journey that began under the threat of withdrawal due to extreme financial hardship.

Born to a father who was a humble farmer, Dr. Akpunonu’s education nearly ended in secondary school when the family could no longer afford tuition. In a defining moment of her life, her father made a solemn vow in the church he helped build, pledging that his daughter would complete her education regardless of the obstacles. 

To honor her father’s commitment and settle the debts incurred for her schooling, Dr. Akpunonu joined the Nigerian Police Force early in her life. While her peers advanced rapidly through traditional academic timelines, she balanced professional service with persistent, self-funded study. 

Reflecting on those years, she remarked, “It looked like they were running and I was just crawling. But wherever they get to, I will get there.”

Her path to the doctorate was paved with strategic sacrifices, including a cycle of borrowing and repaying fees to sustain her enrollment. Her eventual success in the Department of Media Arts serves as a powerful testament to the "Never Too Late" philosophy, proving that academic ambition has no expiration date. 

The University of Abuja community and social media commentators nationwide have flooded the institution's platforms with tributes, citing her story as a definitive reminder that delay is not defeat. Dr. Akpunonu’s legacy now stands as an inspiration for students across generations to remain committed to their personal and academic promises.