Procession Of Lawyers Attracted Me To Law Profession – First Class Graduate 

Radiance Ovuoma Onu Esq, an indigene of Rumuekini in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, is a legal practitioner with a technology- specialised law firm. An Associate of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, she is also a fashion designer, a digital forensics examiner and a content creator.
Born 15th July,1997, she is a First Class Law graduate of  the Rivers State University.
Passionate  about humanity and giving back to society, she founded The Hill’s Beam Foundation, which is focused on grooming young people through the journey of purpose, through the instrumentality of charity and outreaches centred on academic excellence, self actualisation and other areas.
She is also the convener of the Soul Sister’s Network, a forum for the sharpening, mentoring and nurturing of young ladies. In this interview with Ibinabo Ogolo, she talks about how she pursued and achieved academic excellence, how clarity and mapped-out plans for what she really wants to be in life have actualised her ambition and more. Excerpts.
How did you start your law profession?
My scholastic experience began as a pupil of the University of Port Harcourt Day Care Centre (now Gladys Cookey Resource Centre). After that, I went to the University of Port Harcourt Demonstration Primary School and then to the University of Port Harcourt Demonstration Secondary School, where I received my West African Secondary School Certificate with distinction.
I studied Law at the prestigious Rivers State University between 2014 and 2019. I was particularly in the Private and Property Law department of the Faculty of Law.
I was called to the Nigerian Bar as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in July 2021 upon the successful completion of the mandatory one-year vocational training at the Nigerian Law School, Lagos campus.
What motivated you to aspire to become a Lawyer?
Revisiting memory lane on how the idea was conceived, I remember listening to the usual evening news with my family on this particular day. I was still in primary school, as far as I recall. A procession of lawyers was shown on television as part of the news, and I was enthralled by the wigs they wore. I told my mother right away that I liked the wig and would want to wear it. My mum, at this point, told me that if I wanted to wear that wig, I’d have to be a lawyer. That was it! That was how the notion of becoming a lawyer was conceived and I have run with it till date.
Growing up and becoming more aware and knowledgeable about my choice, I became more intentional about the profession. This growing passion fuelled my interest in pursuing academic excellence because I was indoctrinated that  in order to get into a university to study law, you had to be intellectually sound and enjoy reading. Despite the fact that I fared well in my high school science subjects, being a lawyer remained my ambition.
However, some other options were put before me along the line, like medicine. I remember my school counsellor back in SS1 calling me to be sure it was really my will to pursue a career in law because my grades, while all great, tipped me towards being a science student because I scored higher in those areas. Notwithstanding, my desire to become a lawyer remained strong, and at this point, I had a better understanding of the fundamentals of the profession and was eager to give it my all.
I was mentally and academically prepared to study law to a significant extent, and this informed my drive for academic excellence and the development of charisma. I believe I was particularly determined to put on the wig I had fantasised about as a child, and I am overjoyed that I was able to do it..
Can you recount your step by step journey towards bagging a First Class degree, which is not an easy feat?
I would start by mentioning that I began my first year with the right orientation. I was surrounded by people who believed in me. From the moment I got my admission, I had access to the right counsel and motivation. Barr (Mrs) Blessing Eddie-Amadi, my aunty, who is like a mother to me, was and still is one of my biggest supporters. She kept telling everyone we met in my first year how well I did in my JAMB( 258) and Post-UTME exams(84/100). With all of the anticipation, I knew I could not let her down. Also noteworthy is the advice I received after my admission from Hon. Justice Agbara Rtd (now of blessed memory). In his words, “Ovuoma, make sure you aim for a First Class and nothing less, so that if things go wrong and you have to drop, you will be dropping to a 2.1”. Till date, these remarks have continued to inspire me in setting my goals. With these motivating forces behind me, inclusive of my immediate and extended family, I started with a goal-getting and possibility mindset.
At the end of Year 1, a good number of my course mates finished with a 5.0 CGPA, but I had a 4.7. This was the first hurdle. The thought that I may not reach my goal began to pervade my mind, especially as I realised that the higher you go in academics, the more difficult it becomes. However, some senior colleagues with whom I became acquainted reminded me that I still had a lot of semesters to make up for year 1. All I had to do was make sure I never fell below a 4.5 CGPA in any semester or session, as they instructed.
I got into year 2 and I must say this was the year I had my best grades. I had a 5.0 GPA in one of the semesters. This level taught me that your efforts will always match your results if you study not just hard but smart. First, I had a very intentional mentor at this level. I never missed classes because I am a better listener than a reader sometimes. Also, the library had the bulk of my time as I would always go there for my personal research. All of these efforts made me enjoy the courses even more. I ensured my notes were always up to date. In fact, I had class notes, study notes, and case notes. I had a target, so I made sure to stay on course This was also the level where I started to make strategic friendships and I made sure my circle was made up of people with similar goals as me. That way, I had people to study with, revise with, and encourage myself with. My circle was really helpful in my year 2 as well. I also remember being strategic in my studying. My mentor taught me to have a hierarchy when drawing up my study plan. The courses that were bulky and/or seemed difficult to get an A in (which was the law of contract at the time) were my top priority, so I allocated more of my study time and research to make sure that I was able to break down every seemingly difficult topic to the barest minimum of understanding. One challenge I faced at this level was with one of our borrowed courses.I know for a fact that I did not do so well in that course because I was not completely receptive to the teaching. It took me so long to fathom why I was learning Python programming instead of citing cases. Having a C in the course affected my CGPA, as that was the first time I recorded a C in my result. I concluded year 2 with a 4.81 CGPA.
Year 3, did not start on such a good note as I was started off the level with a deteriorated health. I recall missing the first weeks of resumption on health grounds. However, I owed it to myself to make up for the lost weeks with intense studying and note making. One significant story I will like to share about my 300 level is with a particular course, it is almost impossible to get an A in.That was the case of the almighty Commercial Law.
As much as I did not like the personality of the lecturer, I had to like him for the purpose of that course. I listened attentively to him, augmented with my textbooks and other materials. In the end, it was an A grade in both semesters. I also had a challenge with one of the borrowed courses in the first semester, as Economics is one subject I have struggled with since high school. Having a C in this course earned me a 4.78 GCPA.
I must confess that my fourth year was the most difficult. Again, the session began with me missing the first few weeks due to a surgery from which I needed to thoroughly heal before returning to the classroom. I was also saddled with a number of responsibilities that took my time. In all honesty, I had quite a number of distractions at the moment, but I knew I still had to give this level my best game. Year 4 taught me that in achieving excellence, if you cannot sacrifice some of your responsibilities, then you must adequately learn the art of time management and balance. As the courses became tougher, the grades became even more difficult to attain, and some of our lecturers made this really discouraging. I got really discouraged, but I was surrounded by people who still believed I could achieve my goal. My response was to go back to my drawing board, amplify my strengths, downplay my weaknesses, and cut down on some responsibilities.
Final year came with all the necessary butterflies. It was definitely an exciting feeling to get to the finish line. Since I had laid a solid foundation over previous levels, I had a bit of a relaxed final year. I maintained the fire and I worked as hard as always, but there was this relief that I was very close to achieving my dream. I was so confident that even when my grade for my dissertation (30 units) was changed from an A to a B,I was not scared because even with the B, I was still going to graduate with a first class. This feeling was only possible because I started on a strong pedestal. Eventually, after all the deductions and setbacks, I graduated with a 4.6 CGPA.
Summarily, my journey was characterised by first, a belief and determination to graduate with a first-class and practically starting early to achieve this so that no matter how difficult it gets over the years, my background remains sufficient. If I had had such a bad start, at the difficult levels, I would have fallen off my goal.
This feat was greatly influenced by God’s mercies, but I also had to do my part by working hard and smart. I understand that some students still fall victim to vindictive lecturers. However, my opinion is that if you distinguish yourself as an A student from the beginning, you will be confident enough to dispute any instructor or outcome that does not meet your expectations. You become their prey the instant you settle for mediocrity, and you further rob yourself of the courage to contest a poor grade. Be brave enough to stand up to a vindictive system, but make sure you have done your bit by identifying yourself as a serious student.
Lastly, I was that student who always set my target scores and grades at the beginning of the semester. Since Continuous Assessment (CA) will usually take place when the course content is not yet bulky, I always aimed for a 25/30 minimum. Sometimes it was higher, sometimes it got a little lower. The logic is that if Iam able to get 20/30 at least, I will only have to struggle for 50/70, which is easier to achieve than 60 or 70/70 in the exams. This tactic really helped me, and with this, I never took any CA for granted. I will prepare for it as though it were the main exam. I was also that student that liked to check her results and know her grades. Knowing this always helped me plan and strategise better.
To be continued.

What/who is your inspiration?
My main source of motivation is the woman I aspire to be. I have had a glimpse of her and I know she will be great. I have to keep doing all I can to actualize my purpose and potential, and in doing this, I am constantly encouraged and strengthened by my source, the Holy Spirit.
Closely related to this is my inclination for success, influence, and affluence. If I must make a change in my time, then I have to find a spot at the top and spread the tentacles of my influence from there. Bearing this in mind, I am resolved never to settle for failure or mediocrity. I am always motivated to keep trying, working hard, and smashing my goals till I get there.
My parents (Ven. Dr. Ben Onu and Mrs Florence  Onu)are another major source of inspiration. They have invested so much in me that I can’t afford to allow their labour go to waste. I am resolved to make them proud and keep the family legacy going.
Another key motivation I had in aiming for a first class is my desire to further my studies abroad. My sister, who is also one of my mentors, Dr. Adanma Chrys-Chikere, advised me early enough to aim for a grade that would position me for scholarship opportunities and give me a better chance of being admitted to further my education outside Nigeria. This stood as a motivation, and I’m grateful to God for the success so far, believing that in due time, this dream will materialize.
Did you have a mentor/role model?
Yes, I did. Napoleon Richman Thommanuel Esq. has been my mentor from Year 2 till date. As a senior colleague, he made it a point to prepare me for each new level, session, and even semester. He was available to calm all my fears. There were times he would insist I go off the media to focus on my books, and sometimes I had to spend my holiday studying.  I also had some other senior colleagues along the line that were very helpful and supportive in boosting my morale and staying focused on the goal. One of them is Blessing Ohaka Esq. She always and greatly fueled my possibility mindset.
The earliest role model I’ve had is my aunt, Barr. (Mrs) Blessing Eddie-Amadi who is the first close image of a lawyer I conceived. Her drive and passion for success and humanity is highly admirable. She is one of the bravest and most daring women I know, as well as a goal-getter. She definitely fulfills the description of a woman of the people. Everything she does will always be for the greater good of those around her. She is the epitome of love, giving, and support. She is, without a doubt, a mother to me. I’m positive she’s on a road I’d like to pursue and even improve on.

For worldwide relevance, I also look up to Oby Ezekwesili, our Nigerian Idol. She exemplifies tenacity and virtue, and her quest for more inspires me every day. She is intelligent and ambitious. These are qualities I’m striving to emulate and instill. Her notion that there is more to being a woman inspires me, and I am determined to fully embrace my feminine power and potential.
Ebizi Eradiri Esq. is someone I also look up to, especially as a young lawyer. She changed a narrative and is now forging her own path through hard work and academic excellence. As a double first-class lawyer, she was one of my mentors while at the Nigerian Law School, and today she is evidence of every word of encouragement and possibility she instilled in me. As much as I celebrate her wins, I also aim to not just fly as she is but even higher. She has broken a number of biases, and she has inspired me to not limit myself by any self-inflicted or societal-based bias.
As someone who aspires to someday be in the political sphere of influence, I admire people like Michelle Obama and Mrs Parker Odochi. I’ve seen ambition, support, and vigour for societal influence among these women. They exude an aura that I admire greatly.

What is your advice to anyone who wants to make it?

First and foremost, believe in yourself and your ability to accomplish everything you set your mind to. You are distinct, one-of-a-kind, and not empty, and it all begins with your mindset. You must cultivate a positive attitude toward yourself, your values, and your goals. I’ve always believed in myself as a trail blazer and this perspective will continue to drive me to never settle for less when I have everything it takes to be more. I remember back in secondary school when I was appointed the Head Girl. It remains one of my high moments in life because this was a position usually occupied by science students. But then there was me, a student of the Arts department, who changed the narrative. Even after being appointed, I had to remind myself that the legacy I owe those who come after me is to promote the notion that hard work and excellence pays off. This is what I continue to do to this day.
Again, I’d say it all starts with how you think about yourself and your future. Failure will never be an option for you if you have a vision of who you want to be tomorrow. How far you can go or become is often determined by your mindset. Develop an attitude that corresponds to who you want to be and what you want to accomplish. Cultivate an attitude of possibility and reject any mindset that undermines your self-esteem. On the days when things don’t go as planned, you’ll need to rely on your burning passion to get you through.
It isn’t enough to simply believe or have the appropriate mindset. You must do the work and pay the price. Success does not always come cheap. You could lose friends, displease your pleasures, go MIA, leave your comfort zone, take on difficult tasks, abandon habits, and so on. Understand your timing too and quit unhealthy competitions. Find your niche and explore As much as you can, avoid procrastination and get to work right away.
Regardless of how depressing our country’s educational system appears to be, keep in mind that there are some doors that only academic excellence can open for you. Some people have made it because of their academic achievements. I’ve had a taste of it, and I’m currently working my way through it to the wider picture of my success. Never stop developing yourself. Grab the degree excellently, but you will also need the know-how to apply your degree to profitability. As an undergraduate, go for internships during your holidays to embrace the practical side of your course. If you can handle it, take up leadership positions to boost your CV. Thank God for the era of online courses. Take up as many relevant ones as you can enrol in during your spare time. In addition to capacity building, remember to make strategic networks. Attend conferences and connect with successful people in your field; learn from them.

What do you aspire to be now?

My aspirations have not exactly changed. They have only become bigger and clearer. I still look forward to building a career in the legal profession and maybe end up as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. This is not a static aspiration, though, as I am still at the early stage of my career and still exploring its nitty-gritties.  might develop an interest in the bench over time.
I am also enthusiastic about teaching. Despite the fact that the Nigerian educational system is rather disheartening, I still hope to maybe become an academic someday. Maybe if the Bench doesn’t have me, I can double as an Academic and a practicing lawyer. This is why I am currently looking to further my studies with a Master’s Degree and, afterwards, take up a PhD in Law.
Finally, as the woman of influence I aspire to be, I am also interested in my entrepreneurship goals.I am open to establishing an entrepreneurial source of income over the years. The goal is to amass enough wealth to sponsor personal and humanitarian dreams. It has always been my aspiration to live a life that has an impact on my generation and the generations to come.I’d like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to everyone who has supported me throughout the years. My family, both nuclear and , especially Ezirim Ucheoma and a long list of friends.

By: Ibinabo Ogolo