kakalistiq.com reports that the newly appointed Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), HRM Oba Dr Olufolarin Ogunsanwo Telade IV, has described his emergence as a powerful symbol of inclusion and collective honour for traditional rulers across Lagos State.
Speaking during an interview on the sidelines of a homage visit by LASU management led by the Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the monarch said his appointment reflects the inclusive governance philosophy of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu under the THEMESPLUS Agenda.
“The appointment is a significant pointer to the Governor Babajide Sanwoolu’s THEMESPLUS Agenda with part of his focus on inclusivity,” the Alara stated.
He added that, “The appointment is not for me as the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, it is for the entire traditional institution of Lagos State.”
According to him, the decision shows that every segment of society is being carried along in governance.
“That shows his open-mindedness; to see that every sector, every sphere of the state is carried along in governance. It’s a thing of joy for all of us,” he said, noting the presence of several monarchs who came to show solidarity.
He also revealed that the Oba of Lagos, chairman of the Council of Obas, “is also very appreciative of the fact that he has appointed one of us as the 6th Chancellor of the prestigious Lagos State House.”
Looking ahead, the Alara praised the legacy of past university leaders, saying LASU’s rise to prominence in Nigeria and beyond is proof of “the good work of my predecessors have moved LASU to greater heights.”
“But with my experience, knowledge and goodwill, I intend to assist in taking LASU higher still,” he declared.
He outlined plans to introduce “fresh ideas” in youth engagement, especially in ICT and Artificial Intelligence, and to improve welfare for staff and students.
“We also intend to bring our goodwill for kind-hearted Nigerians to continue to extend further hands of fellowship in the development of the University,” he said.
The monarch emphasized balanced development across all campuses, noting, “I’m aware that the university runs a multi-campus structure and we’ll want even development, not only at the main campus but at all the satellite campuses too.”
Though he described his role as largely ceremonial, he stressed the importance of global collaboration.
“As a father figure for the entire university, we can extend further collaboration with other Ivy League institutions in foreign countries in a way that will assist LASU to forge ahead and continue to be the best,” he said.
With confidence in government support, he concluded, “I intend to give it my all based on my experience in government and leadership.”
Alara admitted that his appointment came as “a big surprise,” given that past Chancellors were mostly technocrats and business moguls. He expressed deep appreciation “on behalf of himself, the family, chiefs and Epe Division” for the honour bestowed on him.
Earlier, Vice-Chancellor Professor Olatunji-Bello explained the purpose of the homage visit.
“A couple of days ago, Mr. The Governor appointed the Alara of Ilara Epe the 6th Chancellor of LASU and the onus is on us to visit him, get familiar with him and also to congratulate him,” she said.
She expressed optimism about the future, adding, “We’re hopeful that he’ll bring his goodwill and improve our university, make it greater than it is now and as an Alumni of the university, his interest will be for a greater university.”
Professor Olatunji-Bello concluded with confidence in a strong working bond: “We’re hopeful of a very good relationship with him so that he’ll mediate between the university and the government on our behalf.”
