In a heartwarming announcement shared on her Facebook page, Dr. Latifat Okara has officially completed her doctoral journey, earning her degree in just three years. Expressing profound gratitude and excitement, Dr. Okara highlighted the hard work, resilience, and deep commitment that fueled her success.
Her research focused on the critical intersection of multisectoral collaboration, exploring ways to enhance nutrition and health outcomes for children in Nigeria. “This journey was never just about research,” she wrote. “It was about using my lived experience as a mother to serve with empathy and urgency to improve systems that support families, especially those navigating decisions about their child’s health in resource-limited settings.”
Dr. Okara extended heartfelt thanks to her husband, Simeon Okara, for his unwavering support and encouragement throughout her academic journey. She expressed deep appreciation for the sacrifices he made to allow her to pursue her goals, stating, “Thank you for making space for my growth. God bless you!”
Her daughters also received special recognition for their understanding and love during the long hours of study, as she noted, “You did not judge me; you understood and loved me consistently with grace. You are God’s greatest gift to me!”
In her post, Dr. Okara acknowledged the critical role played by her family, friends, and mentors in her success. She thanked her PGC chair and committee members, Dr. Oh, Dr. Wiafe, Dr. Mataya, and the dedicated faculty at Loma Linda University, stating, “Your guidance and mentorship made this achievement possible.”
As she concluded her announcement, Dr. Okara reminded her followers that “hard work pays off,” inspiring others to pursue their dreams with determination.
For more insights into her journey and to join in her celebration, follow Dr. Latifat Okara on Facebook.