For Doctor Precious Fiyinfoluwa Akande, the journey through dental school was not merely about lectures, examinations, and clinical postings. It was a journey shaped by resilience, consistency, sacrifice, and an unwavering faith in God, a journey that eventually earned her the prestigious recognition as the Best Graduating Dental Student.
Fresh from the Faculty of Dentistry and Dental Surgery, Dr Akande described the achievement as both fulfilling and rewarding, reflecting on years of dedication and perseverance. ‘It feels very fulfilling and rewarding,” she said. ‘I am grateful to God and proud that all the hard work paid off.’
Her path through dental school was far from easy. Like many medical and dental students, she faced moments of uncertainty, pressure, and self-doubt. However, rather than allowing those moments to define her, she chose to confront them with determination and faith.
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‘It was challenging, but also beautiful and eventful,’ she explained. ‘Along the way, I learnt, relearned, and unlearned many things. Dental school taught me resilience and showed me that with God, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.’
According to her, there were several periods during the programme when she questioned herself and her abilities. Yet, she remained steadfast, relying on prayer, strategic planning, and persistence to move forward. ‘Yes, there were many moments of doubt,’ she admitted. ‘During those times, I prayed, restrategized, and kept pushing forward because giving up was never an option for me.’
Dr Akande attributed much of her academic success to consistency and disciplined study habits. Rather than waiting for examinations before reading, she developed a system of studying daily, regardless of how demanding the day had been. ‘Consistency helped me the most,’ she said. ‘I studied every day, participated in group discussions, practised past questions regularly, and used YouTube videos to better understand difficult topics taught in class.’
She added that maintaining a steady daily routine significantly contributed to her performance throughout the years. ‘I made sure I read something every day, no matter how little. That consistency really helped me over the years.’
Beyond academics, the award-winning dental graduate also balanced entrepreneurship and leadership responsibilities. She managed a gifting business known as Maestro while simultaneously leading a non-governmental organisation for teenage girls called Eve’s Alabaster.
Despite the rigorous demands of dental school, she remained committed to making an impact beyond the classroom, demonstrating that academic excellence and community engagement can coexist.
Speaking on the people who played vital roles in her success story, Dr Akande gave special recognition to her parents, describing them as her greatest support system throughout the journey. ‘Definitely my parents,’ she said. ‘Their support, encouragement, and sacrifices kept me going throughout the journey.’
In the field of Dentistry, she revealed a strong passion for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, a specialised branch focused on treating diseases, injuries, and defects affecting the face, jaws, and oral cavity.
She also emphasised the need for increased oral health awareness among young Nigerians, noting that many people underestimate the connection between oral health and overall body health. ‘I believe young Nigerians can become more aware of oral health when they understand that the mouth is connected to the rest of the body,’ she explained. ‘Many oral diseases, if left untreated, can affect overall health. For example, periodontal disease has been linked to systemic conditions like Diabetes Mellitus.’
According to her, increased education and awareness would encourage healthier oral practices and help reduce preventable dental diseases among Nigerians. As she reflects on her success, Dr Akande hopes her story will inspire students who may feel overwhelmed by their dreams or intimidated by difficult academic journeys. ‘Your dreams are valid,’ she said. ‘With God, hard work, and diligence, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.’
Her story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, discipline, and faith. qualities that not only shaped her journey through dental school but also positioned her as a source of inspiration for aspiring medical and dental professionals across Nigeria.