Competence Beyond Looks: Unilorin CBT Braids Drama.
Competence Over Braids: My Unilorin CBT Encounter & The "DejiKing" Brand
On December 20, 2025, I found myself at the Unilorin CBT Center for a test. I arrived early, feeling sharp and ready. I walked into the hall, found a comfortable PC, and was just about to type my access key when "The Tap" happened.
A gentleman in his late 40s—let's call him the "Official Tapper"—instructed me to follow him. I wasn’t worried; I knew exactly why I was being summoned. When I asked what was up, he told me the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) needed to see me.
I responded with a cheerful, "Wow! Nice!"
He looked at me like I was supposed to be shaking in my boots. Sorry, Uncle, no fear here!
The DVC Confrontation: A Lesson in Tourism and Identity
When I met the Professor, she was a true mother—polite but firm about the university’s dress code policies. She wasn't a fan of my look: braided hair neatly tucked under a traditional Aso Oke cap.
As a Tourism Professional and the face of the DejiKing/BBRS Brand, I knew this was a "teachable moment." I requested to squat near her so we could talk heart-to-heart. In just five minutes, we covered everything:
The Heritage: I introduced myself—Adedeji David ADERIBIGBE from Iseyin, Oyo State.
The Brand: I explained that as a content creator and Nollywood actor, my look is my office! I can’t exactly shave my brand off for a 30-minute test.
The Law: I gently reminded her that the Nigerian Constitution doesn't bar men from braiding their hair. Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right.
The Sacred: I mentioned that in our culture, even Sango worshippers braid their hair. While I’m not one, I respect the diversity that makes Nigeria’s tourism so rich.
The Bottom Line: I told her the most important thing: Nigeria needs to focus on COMPETENCE BEYOND LOOKS. By the end of my "presentation," I saw her face soften. She smiled, saw my point, and sent me back to write my exam. Victory for creativity!
The Test: Titanic, WhatsApp, and the iPhone Struggle
The exam was 50 questions in 30 minutes. If you think academic English is easy, think again!
Current Affairs or History? One question asked about the year the Titanic sank. Is that "current" affairs or "ancient" history? 😂
The Spelling Bee: You use WhatsApp every day, but do you know how to spell it correctly in a test?
The Tech Irony: There was a question about Apple. Sadly, Apple to me is still just a fruit because I’ve never owned an iPhone. (If this post motivates you to buy me one for my tourism videos, my DMs are open!)
I finished with 6 minutes to spare, double-checked my punctuation (the secret to passing!), and submitted with 90 seconds on the clock.
A Special Shout-out: Survival in the "Yuletide" Economy
Before I wrap this up, I have to say a massive Thank You to everyone who facilitated my visit to Ilorin.
Let's be real: Transportation during the festive season in Nigeria is no joke. Between inflation and "December fares," the cost of travel is currently on the high side. Without your support, this journey—and this opportunity to stand up for my brand—wouldn't have been possible. God bless your pockets!
Final Thoughts: Tourism, Opportunity, and Smiles
After paying my ₦200 "safety fee" to get my bag back, I went back to thank the DVC. I told her I’d love to return to Unilorin to film a Tourism Episode.
I wanted to leave her with a positive impression of men with braids. We ended with subtle smiles and a "safe trip" wish. She truly is a motherly figure.
The takeaway? Whether you are from Oyo State or anywhere in the world, your value is in your brain, not just your hair. Let’s promote tourism and opportunity by judging people on their results, not their ribbons!
Naira Exchange Rate
Posts
COMMENTS