Tributes pour in as Anisa Ishaq-Balogun, a first-class graduate of the University of Lagos who lived with sickle cell disease, passes away after inspiring many Nigerians with her academic excellence.
Nigerians Mourn Inspiring UNILAG First-Class Graduate
Many Nigerians have taken to social media to mourn the passing of Anisa Ishaq-Balogun, a brilliant first-class graduate of the University of Lagos who lived with Sickle Cell disease.
Anisa, known on X (formerly Twitter) by the handle @Nerdy_neesah, reportedly died on Wednesday after battling the condition for several years. Her death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from friends, colleagues, and admirers who followed her inspiring journey.
A Determined Fighter Who Refused to Be Limited
People who knew Anisa described her as a calm yet determined individual who refused to allow her health condition to define her future.
Despite the physical challenges associated with sickle cell disease, she remained focused on her education and consistently pushed herself to achieve academic excellence.
Her resilience turned her into a role model for many young Nigerians living with similar conditions.
Graduated With Outstanding First-Class Degree
Anisa made headlines when she graduated from the University of Lagos with a first-class degree in Cell Biology and Genetics.
She achieved an impressive CGPA of 4.82 out of 5.00, a feat that earned admiration from many students and academics.
Her success story became a powerful message that sickle cell disorder does not limit a person’s ability to achieve greatness.
Emotional Tribute From Someone Who Interviewed Her
One mourner who had interviewed Anisa two years earlier during a gathering of first-class graduates organized by chess master Tunde Onakoya at UNILAG expressed deep shock after hearing the news of her passing.
He wrote:
“Woke up to the news that Anissa passed away yesterday. I interviewed this SS warrior two years ago at the event Tunde organised with first class graduates at UNILAG. Seeing so many people talk about her in the comments now… man, it’s really sad.”
Muslim Students’ Society Confirms Her
The Muslim Students Society of Nigeria also confirmed the sad news in a statement, praying for mercy for the deceased and strength for her family.
Part of the statement read:
“In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.
With heavy hearts and complete submission to the will of Allah, we announce the passing of our dear sister, Anisa Ishaq-Balogun, who returned to her Lord during this blessed month of Ramadan.”
Her Janazah prayer and burial were scheduled for Thursday morning at Agege Cementry.
Her Inspirational Tweet Before Her Passing
Before her death, Anisa once celebrated her academic achievement in a post that inspired many people battling health challenges.
She wrote:
“Can we skip to the good part?.. B.Sc. Cell Biology and Genetics (4.82/5.00). Who says having sickle cell disease is a barrier to academic excellence? Definitely not me!”
The tweet quickly resonated with many Nigerians who admired her courage and determination.
A Legacy of Courage and Inspiration
Although her life ended too soon, Anisa Ishaq-Balogun’s story continues to inspire many people across Nigeria.
Her journey remains a powerful reminder that strength, resilience, and determination can lead to remarkable achievements even in the face of serious challenges.
Check out the post below.
