By Isabella Okon
The entire family and friends of the former Director, Department of Outdoor Advertisement and Signage, DOAS, FCT Administration, TPL Akanimo Udoh are celebrating a remarkable academic feat as Udoh Uwana Akanimo, the last daughter of the former Director of DOAS, has graduated with a First Class Honors Degree in Mass Communication from the prestigious Benson Idahosa University, Benin City.
Uwana, who graduated from the Faculty of Social and Management Sciences, did not just excel in the classroom. Throughout her 4 years at BIU, she distinguished herself as a student leader, entrepreneur, creative professional, and role model to her peers.
A Record of Leadership and Service
Right from her 200 level, Uwana demonstrated a passion for service. She was elected as the Public Relations Officer of the Association of Mass Communication Students, AMCOS. In 300 level, she rose to become the Director of Academics, where she championed academic excellence and student welfare initiatives.
In her final year, 400 level, she was elected President of AMCOS, leading the departmental association with vision, coordination and a strong voice for students. Her tenure was marked by increased student engagement, academic programs, and a stronger bond between students and faculty.
Beyond the Classroom: Entrepreneur, Creator and Artist
Uwana’s university journey was defined by more than grades. While maintaining a First Class academic record, she built a thriving personal brand and multiple businesses on campus.
As a full-time content creator with the handle @uwanaakanimo, she built a community around lifestyle and beauty content. Her platform is dedicated to pushing young people to become better versions of themselves — with messages of self-growth, confidence, discipline and authenticity.
She also worked professionally as a makeup artist. Her talent earned her the role of Beauty and Makeup Artist for “The Smile Collector”, the first feature film ever produced by the Department of Mass Communication, BIU.
Balancing academics with enterprise, Uwana also ran various businesses on campus, proving that it is possible to be financially independent as a student without compromising academic goals.
Brand Influence and Impact
Her influence quickly caught the attention of major brands. Uwana has worked with Darling, Mega Growth, L’Oréal Paris, and several other top beauty and lifestyle brands. Through collaborations, she has used her platform to promote products while staying true to her message of empowerment and self-development.
“You Can Do It All”
Speaking on her journey, Uwana represents a new generation of undergraduates who refuse to choose between academics, career, and personal brands.
She is proof that a young undergraduate can have a social life, build a brand, serve the community, and still graduate with a First Class.
“You can serve your community, build your personal brand and be an excellent student_,” her story affirms.
The entire FCT Administration joins the Udoh family in celebrating this Outstanding achievement. We congratulate Udoh Uwana Akanimo on this well-deserved success and pray for even greater heights in her careers.
The entire management and Editorial Staff of Weekenders magazine Congratulate the former Director and his daughter on this landmark performance.