A 21-year-old undergraduate, Sammy Samaila, has continued his education despite an unusual medical condition that has prevented him from consuming solid food since childhood, surviving entirely on liquid meals.
The final-year Sociology student at Gombe State University reportedly attends lectures regularly like his peers but depends on pap and other drinks, usually carried in a flask, for daily nourishment.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, he said his diet consists mainly of pap and blended mixtures prepared from millet, groundnuts and soya beans, alongside juices and similar beverages.
Samaila, a native of Yamaltu-Deba Local Government Area, explained that the condition became noticeable around age four when attempts to introduce solid meals consistently triggered vomiting, even though medical examinations detected no physical abnormalities.
He noted that he relies on vitamins and supplements to stay healthy, admitting that he becomes easily fatigued during strenuous activities, while his younger brother often assists him with daily tasks.
Despite never eating solid food, the student said he enjoys cooking and learned culinary skills from his mother, expressing hope that he may someday overcome the condition and eat normally.
His father, Samaila Yaro, recounted years of hospital visits and specialist consultations, stating that doctors ruled out structural illnesses and that the family rejected cultural interpretations that linked the condition to superstition.
Medical experts familiar with his case believe the situation may be associated with functional feeding disorders such as Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder or swallowing coordination challenges, as Samaila remains focused on completing his studies and preparing for life after graduation.
