Nigerian to lead resilience tour in US after writing WASSCE 17 times

A Nigerian graduate who was reported to have written the West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WASSCE) 17 times says he will be leading a resilience tout in the US.

The Nigerian, Emmanual Ahmadu, made the news in June 2024 after opening up on how he wrote the O’Level exam 17 times.

NAN reports that Ahmadu is hosting a project themed “Resilience Rise: Mental Health Awareness Tour” across northeast Ohio.

He said the tour is in collaboration with Triumphators LLC, supported by other stakeholders including the US Department of Education.

The graduate, who was recently honoured with two doctorates, said the tour will address mental health challenges faced by students.

“It will engage high schools and colleges across the region, providing students with the tools and inspiration needed to overcome personal adversities and thrive both academically and personally,” he said.

“It is a significant step in my ongoing efforts to combat the high trend of social vices, depression, and suicide, which have silenced the hopes of young people who are the future of society.

“With nearly one in five Ohio students reporting persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and depression; and suicide being the second leading cause of death among Ohioans aged 10-24, the need for such a programme has never been more urgent.

“By bringing this initiative to northeast Ohio, we aim to ensure that students are equipped with mental resilience, supportive networks, and access to community resources.”

Reflecting on his experiences, Ahmadu said his journey from a turbulent childhood to becoming a beacon of hope is inspiring.

“Despite attending 16 primary schools and 14 secondary schools, and sitting for my O’level exams 17 times, I was determined and persevered to graduate with a Degree in Mass Communication from the University of Benin,” he said.

“And I graduated as an outstanding student in the university.

“My story is a testament to the power of resilience. Through the tour, I seek to instil this same spirit in the next generation of leaders and achievers through their life journeys.”

Tonya Maxwell, the CEO of Triumphators LLC, expressed her enthusiasm about being a partner of the resilience tour.

“Ahmadu’s dedication to mental health awareness aligns perfectly with our vision of helping women and girls overcome their challenges and emerge as leaders in their communities,” the CEO said.

Ahmadu, on June 8, received an honorary doctorate in International Affairs from Global Seminary University in New York.

He was also honoured as a professional doctoral fellow by the Across Global Institute of Foreign Languages (AGIFL) for his leadership and global achievements in mental healthcare.

Ahmadu bagged an award as a “global mental health advocate” by the Marquis Who’s Who 2024 in America on August 3.