Psychologists Urge Support After Lagos Student’s Suicide Over UTME Result
Following the tragic death of a 19-year-old girl in Lagos, reportedly by suicide after receiving her 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results, psychologists and mental health professionals are urging a stronger, more unified response to the emotional well-being of students under exam-related pressure.
Identified by neighbours as Timilehin, the young girl was described as quiet, humble, and full of promise. Originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State, she was residing with her elder sibling in Odogunyan, Ikorodu, Lagos State. Reports indicate she scored 190 in the just-released UTME—lower than her previous year’s result—prompting deep distress that allegedly led to her taking her own life.
The incident has sparked sorrow within the community and criticism of the examination body. Mental health experts, however, stress the need for society-wide efforts to safeguard students’ mental health.
In an interview with PUNCH Metro on Tuesday, psychotherapist and founder of Emotion Compass Academy, Michael Jacob, emphasized that a student’s exam performance should never be used to define their self-worth.
“To every student struggling right now under the weight of disappointment, please understand: your value is not defined by a number on a result slip,” Jacob said. “The UTME is only one doorway out of many. If that door closes, another will open—but you must still be here to walk through it.”
He cautioned against linking academic setbacks to personal failure, stating, “Failing a test does not mean you are a failure. It means you are human, you tried, and you’re still learning. What you need in that moment is not punishment or self-hate but compassion and a plan.”
Jacob encouraged young people facing emotional distress to reach out for help. “Speak to someone you trust—a counsellor, a therapist, a parent, or a teacher. Talking is not weakness. Asking for help is one of the strongest, bravest things you can do.”
Also weighing in, mental health psychologist Patricia Udosen spoke on the immense pressure students face during examinations and the crushing impact of unmet expectations. She noted that while failure can be disappointing, it’s important to remember it isn’t the end.
“With the right mindset and support, students can become more resilient,” Udosen said, advising students to process emotions constructively and to seek support when needed. “Talking to trusted friends, family, or a counsellor can provide valuable support and guidance.”
To parents, Udosen urged empathy and emotional reassurance. “Listen to your child without judgment. Focus on their efforts, not just the results. Remind them that failure is a stepping stone to success.”
Similarly, clinical psychologist Hammed Lateefat highlighted the need to normalise failure. “They should know that failure is part of life and should not allow it to affect their mental health. Instead of dwelling on the setback, they should assess their lapses and keep pushing forward.”
Meanwhile, following widespread complaints from students and parents about the 2025 UTME results, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a review. According to spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, the board has initiated a post-examination system review in response to the “significant volume of unusual complaints” received since the results were released on Friday.
