By Prosper Mene
A Nigerian medical graduate, Dr. Dorcas Akanbi, has made headlines after finishing top of her class with a perfect 4.90 CGPA and delivering her valedictory speech in fluent Russian.
Dr. Akanbi emerged as the best graduating student in her medical school, setting a new academic record with the 4.90 CGPA — the highest in her department.
In a moment that stunned the audience at the convocation ceremony, she took to the podium and delivered her entire valedictory address in Russian, earning a standing ovation from faculty, fellow graduates, and guests.
Speaking after the ceremony, Dr. Akanbi said the achievement was the result of years of discipline, sacrifice, and support from her family.
“It wasn’t easy. Medical school is demanding, and doing it in a foreign language made it even tougher,” she said. “But I stayed focused. My goal was to make Nigeria proud and show that with dedication, we can excel anywhere in the world.”
She also thanked her lecturers for their guidance and her colleagues for the support system that kept her going through clinical rotations and exams.
Dr. Akanbi completed her medical degree in a Russian-speaking country, where all lectures, exams, and patient interactions were conducted in Russian.
Her decision to deliver the valedictory speech in Russian was described by school officials as a “symbol of excellence and integration.” One faculty member noted: “She didn’t just study medicine. She mastered the language, the culture, and came out on top.”
What’s next for Doctor Akanbi
The new doctor says she plans to return to Nigeria to contribute to the health sector, with a focus on public health and community medicine.
“I want to use what I’ve learned to help solve some of the challenges we have back home,” she added. “This is just the beginning.”
Dr. Akanbi’s story is already inspiring young Nigerians on social media, with many calling her a role model for academic excellence and resilience abroad.
