Tiwa's Journey to Success

Tiwa had grown up quickly, blossoming into an intelligent and diligent young girl. She was now in Primary 5, and her academic prowess was evident to everyone in the school. Her teachers often discussed her brilliance with admiration.

"Tiwa is truly exceptional," Mrs. Adebayo, her class teacher, remarked during a staff meeting. "She grasps concepts faster than any student I've ever taught. I wouldn't be surprised if she becomes a great scientist or leader one day."

"Absolutely," Mr. Okafor, the mathematics teacher, agreed. "Her ability to solve complex problems is astounding. She's always the first to raise her hand and get the answer right."

"I've seen many bright students, but Tiwa stands out," added Mrs. Johnson, the headmistress. "Her dedication and enthusiasm for learning are truly inspirational. She's a role model for her peers."

Tiwa's brilliance earned her several awards, which she proudly displayed in her room. Her friends, Vou and Patrick, were always by her side, sharing in her achievements. They affectionately called her "Mrs. Einstein" because of her intelligence.

"Mrs. Einstein, wetin you dey read for there?" Patrick teased one day during lunch break, speaking in his usual Pidgin English.

"Just some extra science notes," Tiwa replied with a smile.

"Ah ah, you no dey tire to read?" Vou joined in, laughing. "You be reading machine o!"

"Una too dey joke," Tiwa said, shaking her head. "I just like to learn new things, that's all."

"Na why we dey call you Mrs. Einstein," Patrick said, grinning. "You sabi book pass everybody for dis school."

"Well, I have to keep up with you guys," Tiwa said, playfully nudging Vou. "You both make school so much fun."

One day, a classmate named Amaka picked a fight with Tiwa. Amaka had always been envious of Tiwa's achievements and decided to take out her frustrations.

"Why do you always think you're better than everyone else?" Amaka shouted, pushing Tiwa.

Tiwa stumbled but remained calm. "I don't think I'm better than anyone, Amaka. We're all here to learn."

"Leave her alone!" Vou shouted, stepping in between them.

"Yes, wetin she do you?" Patrick added, standing beside Vou. "If you wan fight, fight us too!"

Amaka hesitated, seeing the determination in Vou and Patrick's eyes. She backed down, muttering under her breath.

Tiwa smiled gratefully at her friends. "Thanks, guys. You always have my back."

"Of course, Mrs. Einstein," Vou said, giving her a quick hug. "No one messes with our Tiwa."

Patrick nodded. "Na true talk be that. We dey here for you."

At home, Tiwa's father, Ade, taught her a beautiful song he used to sing for her mother, Simi. They would sing it together, and Simi would join in, blushing and smiling.

Ade sang the first verse softly:

"Under the moonlit sky, our love will never die,

Hand in hand, we walk this land, together we'll always stand."

Tiwa followed, her voice blending perfectly with her father's:

"In the warmth of your embrace, I find my happy place,

With each day that passes by, my love for you will never die."

Simi joined in, her eyes shining with love:

"Together we'll face the world, our hearts forever twirled,

In the dance of life we'll be, forever you and me."

After singing, they would laugh and share stories about their day. The love and bond they shared were evident in every moment.

When Tiwa graduated from primary school and started her JSS 1, she continued to excel academically. Her journey through JSS 1 to JSS 3 was filled with hard work, fun with her friends, and the unwavering support of her parents. Tiwa's intelligence and dedication earned her top marks in every subject, and she participated in various extracurricular activities, showcasing her talents in different fields.

As she entered senior secondary school, Tiwa blossomed into a beautiful young woman. Boys admired her, but her focus remained on her studies. 

One day, a boy named Chuka approached her. "Hi, Tiwa. I was wondering if you'd like to go out with me sometime?"

Tiwa smiled politely. "Thank you, Chuka, but I really need to focus on my studies right now."

Chuka nodded, looking a bit disappointed. "I understand. You're amazing, Tiwa. Good luck with everything."

Tiwa's dream was to become a doctor and possibly work in a prestigious hospital one day. She often had conversations with her parents about her aspirations.

"Mummy, Daddy, I want to build you a house one day," Tiwa said during dinner. "And take you on a vacation to the Philippines. I know it's where you've always wanted to go."

Ade smiled proudly. "That's a wonderful dream, Tiwa. But remember, we'll be happy no matter what, as long as you follow your heart."

Simi nodded. "We're already so proud of you, my dear. You'll achieve great things, we know it."

Tiwa graduated from secondary school as one of the best students, making all distinctions in her West African Examination Council (WAEC) exams. Her outstanding performance earned her a scholarship from the state governor to study abroad. She agreed to come back and practice medicine in Nigeria after her education.

With just three days left before her departure to Germany, the excitement in Tiwa's household was palpable. However, her parents were also worried about how much they would miss her.

"We're so proud of you, Tiwa," Ade said, hugging her tightly. "But we'll miss you every day."

"I'll miss you too, Daddy," Tiwa replied, her voice choked with emotion.

Simi joined the hug, tears streaming down her face. "Remember to call us often, my love. And take care of yourself."

Tiwa's friends, Vou and Patrick, were equally excited for her. "You better call us every day," Vou demanded playfully.

"And no forget to reply our messages for WhatsApp," Patrick added, grinning. "We go miss you die."

"I promise, I'll stay in touch," Tiwa said, laughing through her tears. "You guys are the best."

On the day of her departure, Tiwa woke up early, excitement and a touch of nervousness in her heart. Simi prepared her favorite breakfast, and they shared a beautiful morning together.

"Tiwa, my dear, you have made us so proud," Simi said, serving her a plate of akara and pap. "This is just the beginning of your journey."

"I know, Mummy. Thank you for everything," Tiwa replied, savoring the familiar taste.

Ade and Simi drove their daughter to the airport. As the time for departure approached, the reality of their separation set in.

"I don't want to let go," Simi whispered, hugging Tiwa tightly.

"Mummy, I'll be back soon," Tiwa said, tears in her eyes. "I promise."

Ade placed a comforting hand on Simi's shoulder. "She's right. We'll see her again soon. And she'll make us even prouder."

Finally, it was time for Tiwa to board the plane. She gave her parents a goodbye kiss and walked towards the gate, tears streaming down her face.

"I love you both so much," she called out, turning one last time to wave.

"We love you too, Tiwa," Ade and Simi replied in unison.

As Tiwa boarded the plane, she couldn't help but cry. She missed her parents already, but she was also excited for the new chapter in her life. Her dreams were within reach, and she knew she had the support and love of her family and friends to guide her every step of the way.