UNILAG Best Graduating Student Wins Erasmus Scholarship to Study in France, Italy, and Germany

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has produced another academic star as its 2023/2024 Overall Best Graduating Student, Samuel Badekale, secures the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarship in Bio-membranes.

Badekale, who finished with a perfect 5.00 CGPA in Cell Biology and Genetics, emerged as the only Nigerian and West African recipient of the highly competitive European Union-funded programme. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Scholarship Details

The scholarship will enable Samuel to further his studies across three top European universities over the next two years:

• Université Côte d’Azur (France)

• University of Genoa (Italy)

• University of Osnabrück (Germany)

His programme will focus on advanced fields such as Membrane Biology, Neuroscience, and Experimental Medicine.

Samuel’s Reaction

Sharing the news on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, the outstanding scholar described the achievement as a dream come true:

“2025 has been amazing in every way! Pleased to announce the next step in my journey: selected as the only Nigerian and West African for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in Biomembranes, studying across three world-class universities in France, Italy and Germany.”

Reflecting on his journey from Mushin, Lagos, Samuel added:
“As I look back, I see a young boy from Mushin, with a big dream: to explore the world and make a positive impact. And today, by God’s faithfulness, that dream is gradually becoming a reality.”

Inspiring Students

Badekale also used the opportunity to encourage other students to pursue excellence through education:

“To my younger self and every student out there: Trust God. Hold your education tightly. Come out with the best grades possible, strive for excellence, because education is still one of the most powerful keys to move from your local community to the global stage. Education isn’t a scam. It’s a weapon. Use it.”

His story has since inspired thousands online, cementing his place as one of UNILAG’s brightest achievers and a role model for Nigerian youths.