The University of Ibadan, Nigeria’s premier institution of higher learning, witnessed a groundbreaking moment during its 77th Convocation Ceremony on November 17, 2025. Among the 154 doctoral graduates honored was Dr. Rizqat Folawe Sanni, who etched her name into history as the first Niqab-wearing Muslim woman to earn a PhD in Mathematics from the university.
Her achievement is more than an academic milestone—it is a powerful testament to resilience, faith, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of societal expectations.
Academic Journey
Dr. Sanni earned her doctorate from the Faculty of Education, specializing in Mathematics education. Her thesis, titled “Explicit Embedded and Activity-Based Reflective Strategies and Senior Secondary School Students’ Learning Outcomes in Mathematics in Ibadan, Nigeria”, focused on innovative teaching methods designed to enhance students’ performance in mathematics. Her research contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse on improving mathematics education in Nigeria, a subject often regarded as one of the most challenging for secondary school students.
Convocation Recognition
At the convocation, Dr. Sanni stood out not only for her academic distinction but also for the symbolic weight of her achievement. In the university’s 76-year history, she is the first Niqabite to reach this level of academic success. Her presence on the convocation stage was celebrated by colleagues, faculty members, and the wider Muslim community, who hailed her as a role model for young women aspiring to balance faith and scholarship.
Personal Life and Support
Dr. Sanni is married to Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, a respected Islamic leader. Her success has been widely celebrated across Nigeria, with Muslim communities and educational organizations praising her perseverance and dedication. Her journey underscores a vital lesson: wearing the niqab or being married does not hinder the pursuit of personal and professional goals.
Symbol of Inspiration
Her story resonates deeply in a society where women often face cultural and social barriers in higher education. By breaking this barrier, Dr. Sanni has become a beacon of inspiration for Muslim women and girls across Nigeria and beyond, proving that intellectual achievement and religious devotion can coexist harmoniously.
