Meet Qudus Adebayo Owoyemi, a first-class Statistics graduate from the University of Ilorin whose academic brilliance and leadership qualities set him apart.
Beyond excelling in data analytics and research, Qudus also holds a Guinness World Record for the fastest time to complete five skin fade haircuts. In this exclusive interview with KOREDE BADMUS, he shares his journey, challenges, and the motivation behind his unique blend of talents.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Qudus Adebayo Owoyemi. I graduated with first-class honours in Statistics from the University of Ilorin, earning a CGPA of 4.85 out of 5.00. Throughout my studies, I consistently received awards as the best student in my class from year one through to year four. I am proficient in data analytics tools including Python, R, SPSS, Power BI, and SQL. Recently, I published research in a reputable international journal. During my time at the university, I held several leadership roles, including Welfare Secretary, and I contested the Students’ Union Presidential Election . Additionally, I hold a Guinness World Record for the fastest time to complete five skin fade haircuts.
What motivated you to pursue a degree in Statistics, and why choose the University of Ilorin?
Initially, I aspired to become a medical doctor, but after several attempts, I was encouraged to consider my second choice: a National Diploma in Mathematics and Statistics at Lagos State Polytechnic. This experience helped me better understand my ambitions.
During my SIWES internship in 2018, I participated in the Geo-reference Infrastructural Development (GRID3) micro-census project. I observed that many people in rural areas suffer from health problems, especially neurological disorders like epilepsy, schizophrenia, and stroke. This inspired me to pursue a career at the intersection of Biostatistics and Data Science, using technology to develop solutions for health challenges.
What study methods helped you maintain your top position in class?
My principle has always been to take the bull by the horn. I avoid procrastination and ensure that I cover my course materials, often studying two topics ahead during weekends.
When I encounter difficult questions, I engage in group work and personal research. If challenges persist, I consult seniors before exams or tests. This approach helped me stay consistently up to date throughout the semester.
Did you ever face academic struggles, and how did you overcome them?
Yes. After contesting the Students’ Union Presidential election in my third year, my previously unbroken 5.0 GPA streak was broken. My CGPA dropped from 4.98 to 4.87 because I couldn’t make a 4.5 that semester.
I overcame this setback by putting the past behind me and tackling the following semesters with renewed confidence and determination. With support from friends, family, and lecturers, I finished my final year with stellar results.
You served as Welfare Secretary and ran for Students’ Union President. What drew you to leadership and politics?
I have a strong desire for leadership—not politics. I believe that good people deserve good leaders to drive development and success. Humility is the foundation of all possibilities, and I see endless opportunities everywhere.
My commitment to selfless service led me to contest for Welfare Secretary of my faculty, where I initiated various projects. To broaden my impact, I later ran for Students’ Union President.
How did you manage leadership pressures alongside academic excellence?
I am skilled at multitasking. During my term as Welfare Secretary in my second year, I maintained a 5.0 GPA in both semesters and the first semester of my third year. This balance strengthened my resolve to excel in both academics and leadership.
What was your biggest challenge as a student leader, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge came when I had to step down due to a conflicting interest for the Welfare Secretary position between me (a second-year student) and a third-year candidate near the end of my term.
I considered the circumstances and chose to step aside to support the third-year student, knowing I had two more years to contest. It was a selfless decision.
You are proficient with data analytics tools like Python, R, SPSS, Power BI, and SQL. How did you acquire these skills during your undergraduate years?
I began learning the basics of R and SPSS during my National Diploma program and honed these skills during a four-month internship at the Lagos State Bureau of Statistics. In 2022, I received a DataCamp scholarship where I advanced my knowledge in Python programming, SQL, and Power BI. At the University of Ilorin, I took an R programming course and applied these tools in my research work.These experiences have been invaluable for my career as a data analyst.
How have your technical skills given you an edge academically or professionally?
Academically, my technical skills helped me excel in courses like C programming, where I scored 88%, the highest in my class, and R programming, where I trained over 200 students in data analysis.Professionally, as a Network Data Analyst at Huawei Technologies, these skills help me ensure efficient network performance for clients.
You hold a Guinness World Record for skin fade haircuts. How did this achievement come about?
I pursued this record to gain global recognition for my years of hard work as a mobile barber in Lagos and at university. I completed five skin fade haircuts in 14 minutes 56 seconds, breaking the previous record of 18 minutes 57 seconds set by Enrico Springfield of South Africa. The record attempt took place at the University of Ilorin during my undergraduate studies.
Lastly, what advice would you give students struggling with low grades or self-doubt?
I would encourage them by saying, “You are more than your grades,” “Set your own pace,” “Own your story,” and “Your doubts don’t define you—your decisions do.”
Success is not the absence of struggle—it often grows from it. I reached the top of my class and set a world record not because it was easy, but because I kept showing up, even when it was tough and self-doubt whispered louder than confidence. Stay motivated and believe in your potential.
Thank you for having me.
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