Dr. Moriliat Ibiwunmi Ajila made an impressive mark at the National Open University of Nigeria’s (NOUN) 14th convocation ceremony on Saturday, April 12, 2025, as she proudly walked across the stage to receive her Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as dignitaries, academia, family, friends and loved ones gathered to honor the accomplishments of the latest scholars, she celebrated a remarkable achievement that reflects not just her academic prowess but also her unwavering tenacity.

Reflecting on her academic journey, Dr. Ajila described it as arduous yet rewarding. In an exclusive interview with CEOAFRICA, she expressed her deep gratitude, stating, “I will call it an academic journey which isn't so smooth but I am very happy today. After years of perseverance, dedication, hard work, tenacity, and pain, I am here as a PhD graduate. I thank God, and I thank my husband immensely for his unwavering support.”

Dr. Ajila’s educational path began with an NCE certificate in teaching, she went on to earn a degree in Mathematics at the Federal College of Education. She then pursued a Bachelor of Science in Economics at Delta State University and achieved her Master’s in Business Administration from NOUN, graduating in 2017. The culmination of her efforts was realized with the conferring of her doctoral degree during the grand ceremony.

She highlighted her experience at NOUN, praising its commitment to student welfare and encouraging others to consider the institution. “I highly recommend NOUN as a great school for anyone to study. It’s stress-free, but you have to be hardworking. The Vice Chancellor is a good man who truly puts the welfare of the students at heart,” she remarked.

Celebrating alongside Dr. Ajila was her husband, Mr. Olawale Ajila, who expressed his pride in her achievement. “With the doctorate degree she has earned today, I believe it will provide her with more opportunities and open doors for networking in various areas of life. I wish her all the best,” he said during an interview.

The day continued with a joyous reception at Sandralia Hotel Limited, Solomon Lar Road, Utako, Abuja, where family and friends gathered to toast her success. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, dancing, and heartfelt testimonies about her character and leadership. One of her colleagues praised her, stating, “She is very resourceful; I learn a lot from her. Her managerial skills and ability to coordinate her colleagues are second to none.”

A family representative described her, “She is a gentle and responsible wife,” while a member of her religious association noted, “She is a devoted Muslim and a goal-getter, always seeking the next bridge to cross. She is never lazy.”

Among the most touching moments came from one of her students, who said, “Ma, you have really motivated, encouraged, and empowered us, as girls, to believe that we can go far.”

Dr. Moriliat Ibiwunmi Ajila's graduation is not just the end of a long academic journey; it stands as a testament to her resilience, dedication, and indomitable spirit, inspiring all who have the pleasure of knowing her. As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, the future looks bright, full of possibilities and opportunities, resonating with the message that hard work and perseverance truly lead to remarkable achievements.