Meet Temitayo Samuel-Oladimeji, a final-year student from the Department of Economics at the Federal University Lokoja, recently recognized as the Personality of the Day on campus.
Known for her quiet brilliance and thoughtful perspective, Tayo has spent the past few years exploring the academic rigors of Economics while adapting to life in Lokoja, far from home, yet full of new experiences.
I caught up with her to talk about her journey so far: the ups and downs of studying Economics, life as a student in Lokoja, and what the future looks like beyond the classroom.
Titipetral: “Why did you choose to study Economics, and has the journey been what you expected?”
Temitayo: “My interest in Economics began back in secondary school. I was drawn to how it addresses real-world issues that affect our daily lives. Whenever we were taught a topic, I often found myself thinking, ‘Why doesn’t the government just use this economic tool to stabilize the economy?’
“I remember once quite amusingly, I stood up in class and asked my teacher why the government couldn’t just end poverty by printing a lot of money and distributing it to everyone. That moment sparked a deeper curiosity in me. From then on, I started telling people I wanted to become an Economist, with the goal of formulating policies that could help stabilize Nigeria’s economy and bridge the gap between the rich and the poor.”
Titipetral: “What’s been the most exciting or eye-opening thing you’ve learned as an Economics student so far?”
Temitayo: “I’ve actually learned a lot of eye-opening things as an Economics student. One that really stands out is how much economics shapes the decisions we make, both as individuals and as a country. I used to think it was all about money, but now I see that it’s deeply tied to human behavior, government policy, development, and even social justice.”
“Understanding concepts like opportunity cost, inflation, and fiscal policy has changed the way I see everyday issues. It’s made me more aware of how interconnected everything is, and how a single policy decision can impact millions of lives. That realization has been both exciting and humbling.”
Titipetral: “If you could go back to 100 level, is there anything you’d do differently?”
Temitayo: “The one thing I wish I had done differently is documenting more moments, especially through pictures. I’ve never been great at taking photos of myself, and as it stands, I don’t have a single picture from my 100 to 300 level. Sometimes, that makes me feel a bit sad because those memories are gone, and I have nothing to look back on. It would have been nice to have photos to smile at in the future, little reminders of my university journey.”
Titipetral: “ How has schooling in Lokoja, away from home shaped you personally and academically?“
Temitayo: “Before coming to Federal University Lokoja, I was actually in a university in Ogun State, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU). I did a pre-degree program and gained admission to study Economics, but unfortunately, I had to drop out because I couldn’t pay my tuition on time. My parents were dealing with a financial setback caused by scammers at the time.”
“Even though I couldn’t continue, I still attended lectures while I was there, and that’s where my interest in agriculture first began. One of our GNS lecturers, Mr. Bada, really opened my eyes. He explained how agriculture was Nigeria’s major export before oil was discovered and how it played a huge role in shaping our economy. He talked about how it offers direct employment to so many people and highlighted areas in agriculture that are highly lucrative. I’ll never forget when he took us to a farm to clear land, or his favorite saying: ‘Your sabificate is better than your certificate.’
“That experience planted a seed in me. When I got to Federal University Lokoja, I applied the mindset I developed at OOU. Luckily, we were required to take Entrepreneurship, and with my background in agriculture, I chose it as my focus. I grew even more passionate about it and eventually earned a Certificate of Proficiency in Agriculture.”
“In my 100-level second semester, I also started an online food business called Soup Magik. I cooked soups and stews for people who were too busy to make them themselves. It was quite successful, maybe because my mum is a caterer, so I guess I took after her! “
“Then came another lightbulb moment. My Ijebu garri from home had finished, and I couldn’t find a single seller in Lokoja market. That’s when I thought:
‘Tayo, you need to start selling this garri.’ I began sourcing it from Ogun and Osun states and getting it waybilled to Lokoja. I posted about it online and quickly gained attention, especially from civil servants from the West who missed that specific taste. That experience taught me that when you solve a real problem, your business will thrive.”
“Since then, I’ve started seeing business opportunities everywhere. I now advise people on small businesses they can start, and I even run a TikTok page where I share business tips with young adults.”
“Coming to Lokoja truly expanded my perspective. If I had stayed at OOU, I might have remained a good student, but I’m not sure I would have become the entrepreneur I am today. So, to fellow students and young adults, my advice is: sometimes, to grow, you need to leave your comfort zone. Go far from home. Open your mind to new ideas, you’ll thank your younger self later.”
“Schooling in Lokoja has shaped me, not just academically, but spiritually and personally as well.”
Titipetral: “What has been your biggest challenge in school, and how did you overcome it?”
Temitayo: “My biggest challenge in school has definitely been the epileptic power supply, which is honestly a general issue. I really don’t like darkness. There were times I wanted to read but just couldn’t, simply because the exhaustion that comes with heat and darkness was too much.”
”To overcome that, I invested in two strong power banks, an electric lamp, and a solar lamp. That combination saved me and it’s still serving me well. It taught me the importance of being prepared and creating your own comfort, especially in a system that doesn’t always work in your favor.”
Titipetral; “Do you see yourself pursuing a career strictly in Economics, or are you open to exploring other paths?“
Temitayo: “It really depends on God’s purpose for me. I’d love to pursue a career in Economics, but I’m also open to exploring other paths, especially in Entrepreneurship and Agriculture. I actually forgot to mention that I also have a passion for teaching. I find so much joy in sharing knowledge and would love to impact the rising generation in any way I can. So, while Economics is at the core, I believe my journey will include multiple meaningful directions.”
Titipetral; “Who or what inspires you to keep going on tough days?“
Temitayo: “One of my biggest sources of inspiration is my cousin, Aunt Titi. Whenever I feel weak or discouraged, I think of her. Her life story reminds me of something profound:”
“The same water that softens the egg hardens the potato. In the end, it’s not your circumstances but what you’re made of that truly matters.”
“She came from a very humble background, similar to mine, but with even fewer opportunities and less support. Despite that, she has become a remarkably successful woman. Knowing what she’s overcome gives me strength. I often say to myself, ‘If Aunt Titi could achieve greatness, then so can I.’ Funny enough, she probably doesn’t even know how much she inspires me, but her story keeps me going.”
“My dad has also played a major role in shaping how I see myself. He once told me, ‘Tayo, the only difference between you and a man is anatomy. If your mother had given birth to you as a boy, would you not marry and provide for your family? So, think and act like someone who has responsibilities, be independent!’ That advice stuck with me. It changed the way I carry myself and how I approach challenges.”
“These two people (my cousin and my dad) fuel my determination to succeed, no matter the odds.”
Titipetral: “What advice would you give to students just starting out at the Federal University Lokoja?”
Temitayo: “My advice to any student planning to study at Federal University Lokoja or anywhere, really is to focus on growth and personal development, not just grades. Yes, academics matter, but in the real world, your CGPA won’t be the only thing that defines you. What truly counts is the value you bring to society.
So be intentional:
Read.
Pray.
Develop yourself in every area.”
“And most importantly, network while you’re still in school. The people you surround yourself with now will become part of your professional circle tomorrow. That circle can create opportunities not just for you, but even for your children in the future. So build wisely, and stay purpose-driven.”
Born as Titilayo Oladimeji, I have been known by the nickname Titipetral for nearly two decades. I am a Financial Advisor at a reputable financial institution in Lagos, Nigeria, with over 10 years of experience in Financial Advisory and Credit Analysis. I am also an author and the founder of Titipetral Publishers, a duly registered publishing company.
In addition, I lead the Titipetral Empowerment and Development Network (TEDN), a duly registered philanthropic initiative dedicated to supporting underprivileged girls, boys, women, and men in the Alimosho area, Nigeria’s most populated local government, focusing on serving the underserved.
For inquiries or collaboration, you can reach me at Titilayooladimeji@titipetral.com or titipetral@gmail.com.