Nigerian Student Thrives at University on Liquids Only

While his classmates grab rice and bread between lectures, Sammy Samaila sips pap from a flask and keeps walking toward his sociology degree.

The 400-level student at Gombe State University in Nigeria has survived entirely on liquids since birth. Doctors found nothing physically wrong after multiple tests, yet any attempt to eat solid food triggers immediate nausea and vomiting.

His daily diet consists of pap, tomato brown made from millet and groundnuts, juices, and other liquid nutrition. Before taking his daily medications (folic acid, vitamin B complex, and yeast supplements), he makes sure to drink his homemade pap first.

Sammy's father, Samaila Yaro, remembers one particular weekend when he tried feeding his son just three grains of rice. The boy vomited and became so ill they rushed to the hospital, where an endoscopy revealed everything looked normal.

The paediatrician's advice was simple: stop forcing him to eat and only give him what he's willing to take.

Despite surviving only on liquids, Sammy is ironically an excellent cook. His mother taught him by letting him watch her prepare meals, and now he makes his own pap to take to school.

The condition hasn't stopped his academic success either. He passed his WAEC, NECO, and JAMB exams in one sitting and is now in his final year without any failed courses.

Gastroenterologists reviewing his case suggest possibilities like Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) or functional dysphagia, conditions where the brain and gut interaction is disrupted despite normal test results. These disorders can cause intense gag reflexes or overwhelming fears that lead people to avoid solid foods entirely.

Why This Inspires

Sammy's story reminds us that human resilience takes countless forms. He hasn't let his unique condition define his limits or stop him from pursuing education and independence.

His father refuses to believe in superstition, instead trusting that "God creates each person uniquely." That perspective has helped Sammy focus on what he can do rather than what he can't.

Sammy hopes to meet others with similar experiences and prove he's not alone in this rare reality. Even more touching, he continues trying to eat solid food, never giving up on the possibility that one day things might change.

For now, he's preparing to graduate and serve anywhere in Nigeria for his National Youth Service, ready to teach the world that different doesn't mean less capable.