August 7, 2026 by Samuel Oamen | Senior Reporter
Meet Damilola Odukoya, UNILAG alumna who wrote JAMB at 37, became medical doctor
At an age when many have long settled into their careers, Dr. Odukoya Damilola chose to begin again. At 37, nearly two decades after her first attempt, she returned to sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination, setting herself on a path that would redefine her life. Already a wife, a mother of three, and a full-time laboratory technician, her decision to pursue Medicine at the University of Lagos was as bold as it was demanding.
Balancing the rigours of medical school with the responsibilities of raising young children, including an infant, she navigated years of intense study, sacrifice, and personal challenges.
Often the oldest in her class and fondly called “Mummy” by younger colleagues, she refused to be discouraged by the odds. In 2022, her persistence paid off as she graduated from the University of Lagos College of Medicine, fulfilling a long-held dream and proving that it is never too late to start again.
Here are things to know about Damilola Odukoya
She returned to JAMB after nearly two decades
At the age of 37, Dr. Odukoya made the bold decision to sit for the JAMB examination again, almost 20 years after her first attempt. This uncommon step marked the beginning of a new life chapter and demonstrated her willingness to restart her academic journey despite the long gap.
She pursued Medicine later in life
Unlike many who begin medical school in their teens or early twenties, she chose to chase her dream of becoming a doctor at a stage when most people are already settled in their careers. Her decision challenges the conventional timeline society often places on success.
She balanced education with family responsibilities
Before gaining admission, she was already married with three children. Managing the demanding role of a mother alongside the rigours of medical school required exceptional discipline, resilience, and time management.
She had an existing career before switching paths
Prior to studying Medicine, she worked full-time as a laboratory technician in a hospital. Leaving a stable job to pursue a long and demanding course like Medicine highlights her courage and commitment to personal fulfilment.
Her journey included personal life challenges
She experienced a five-year wait after marriage before having her first child. This period, combined with later responsibilities, adds depth to her story of perseverance and emotional strength.
She studied Medicine while raising young children
One of the most remarkable aspects of her journey is that she went through medical school while raising three children, including a baby who was less than a year old at the time. This made her academic pursuit even more demanding.
She had to take a study leave from work
To fully commit to her medical education, she took a break from her job. This decision likely came with financial and professional sacrifices, further emphasising her determination.
She stood out among much younger classmates
In school, she was significantly older than her peers, many of whom were young enough to be her children. Being called “Mummy” by classmates reflects both her age difference and the respect she commanded.
She remained resilient through academic pressure
Medical school is widely known for its intensity, yet she successfully navigated long lectures, tough exams, and emotional stress without giving up, despite her added responsibilities.
She achieved her dream in 2022
After years of sacrifice and persistence, she graduated from the University of Lagos College of Medicine in 2022, officially becoming a medical doctor, fulfilling a lifelong ambition.
Her story is a symbol of courage and persistence
What makes her journey remarkable is not just the end result, but her willingness to begin when it seemed “too late” and her strength to continue when the path became difficult.
Her husband, Abiodun Odukoya, played a crucial role by supporting her throughout the journey.
His understanding and encouragement were key factors that helped her succeed.
She inspires others to pursue delayed dreams
Her life serves as a powerful reminder that timing should not limit ambition. She proves that with determination and support, it is possible to rewrite one’s story at any stage in life.
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