MY M.Sc In POLITICAL SCIENCE JOURNEY – Mall. ABDULMALIK ABDULKADIR
Earlier today, I did my external defense as part of the requirements for the award of a Master’s Degree (M.Sc) in Political Science.
At 30, I’m deeply grateful and humbled by the journey so far. I now hold a Diploma in Law (Upper Credit), a Bachelor’s Degree (B.Sc) in Political Science (also Upper Credit), and a Master’s Degree (M.Sc) in Political Science with a PhD-grade result, specializing in Political Behavior and Public Policy Analysis.
My dissertation, entitled “The Impact of Intra-Party Politics on Democratic Consolidation in Kogi: A Case Study of APC, 2015 – 2023,” is indeed the first of its kind in Kogi State. While the journey was indeed stressful, I am grateful to Allah for the strength and guidance throughout.
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From my dissertation and within this period under study, I produced three paper conferences and a textbook and it’s intended to inspire further scholarship.
On this note, I sincerely express my heartfelt gratitude to my supervisor, Prof. Abraham Musa Peter, for his insightful feedback, thorough supervision and scholarly guidance, all of which were instrumental in shaping this research. I equally appreciate all the lecturers in the department for their support throughout the journey. Special thanks to my external assessor, Prof. Femi Omotosho, under whom I had the privilege to come in contact with during my NYSC days at the Department of Political Science, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti. It was truly a pleasure reconnecting with you, Prof. Thank you for your kind words and for the invaluable scholarly input that enriched this work.
As I write, I am enveloped in gratitude. It is a moment that compels reflection on the improbable journey that has led me here.
Those who have known me since childhood will understand why this achievement seems almost otherworldly. I was never one to follow a conventional path. I have always valued knowledge through formal education. As a teenager, I was both playful and serious. In primary school, I served as the labor prefect and a news caster. In secondary school, I was both head boy and Amir.
At Kogi State University, Anyigba — now Prince Abubakar Audu University — I was well-known and very open. I assisted many students with their final-year projects, even while actively serving as a unionist and standing out as the most influential Political Science student of my set. This wasn’t because I loved hustling but because my father gave me a clear choice: either take education seriously or lose his support. At just 17, I chose education as my only way forward — a decision that has shaped my journey ever since.
During this formative period, I read voraciously. Those who shared my love for reading and writing became my friends. I wrote continuously, even when no one was reading my work. I avoided drugs, alcohol and other distractions. My curiosity served as my shield, and my reading sharpened my mind. This focus on intellect, rather than indulgence, also made me adept at meeting with people, particularly beautiful ladies.
At this point, I must pause and pay deep appreciation to my dear mentor, Prof. Usman Ogbo, who graciously opened his doors and offered me a lifelong mentorship that has truly transformed my journey. Under his guidance, I learned to work diligently, think critically, avoid shortcuts and uphold the highest standards in all I do. His influence has shaped not just my academic and professional path but my world views and values. Prof, your impact on my life is immeasurable. My loyalty to you is unwavering—you are, and will always be, my Greatest of All Time.
Again, nothing I have achieved today was handed to me; it was built through perseverance, purpose and resilience.
To every young person reading this: Follow your heart, work diligently and protect your integrity at all costs. There is nothing beyond your reach. E sure for you if you believe!
As I prepare for the next chapter, which is holy matrimony (as expected) and my Ph.D. journey which is also imminent, I am humbled by one truth: while I have witnessed the fruits of relentless effort, I am confident that the best is yet to come—if Allah grants me life.
To my late Dad, my praying Mum, admirable siblings, friends, colleagues, acquaintances and everyone who has supported me along this journey, thank you from the depth of my heart. My Dad once shared this dream with me and believed in it, but sadly, he’s no longer here to witness its fulfillment. Teacher Malik, I did it. I hope you’re proud. I miss you dearly.
To my beloved Mum, thank you for standing strong, praying endlessly and being my constant source of strength and comfort. Your sacrifices, love and encouragement have carried me through.
To everyone who walked this path with me through your words, support and presence, I am truly grateful.
I am grateful to Allah for all that is behind me and all that lies ahead.
Officially, here’s;
A name built on RESILIENCE.
A journey fueled by COURAGE
A story defined by AUDACITY.
Mall. ABDULMALIK ABDULKADIR,
OND, Law (KSU), B.Sc Pol. Sci. (KSU), M.Sc Pol. Sci. (FUL) and Ph.D (in View).
Alhamdulilāh!
11th December, 2025
(Democracy Newsline Newspaper, December 12th 2025)
