kakalistiq.com reports that the leadership of Lagos State University (LASU) has formally welcomed its newly appointed Chancellor, HRM Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, Telade IV, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, during a colourful familiarization visit to the ancient Alara’s Palace in Ilara-Epe.
Led by the Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the management delegation included the Deputy Vice-Chancellors (Administration and Academics), the University Bursar, Librarian and others. They were received by prominent traditional rulers of Eredo, members of the Alara-in-Council, Chiefs and respected palace dignitaries.
Addressing the royal host on Thursday, Professor Olatunji-Bello described the visit as one of deep respect and celebration, noting that the university had come to “formally pay homage and extend the institution’s warm congratulations” on his emergence as the 6th Chancellor of LASU.
She hailed the appointment as “historic and symbolic,” adding that it reflects the monarch’s “distinguished royal heritage” and unwavering dedication to scholarship and service.
“The office of Chancellor is one of honor, moral authority and inspiration,” she said, describing the Alara as “a bridge between heritage and innovation and a father figure whose guidance will continue to strengthen the moral and academic fabric of our institution.”
According to her, the visit was more than protocol. “Today’s visit is therefore not merely ceremonial; it’s a reaffirmation of our loyalty to the university’s mission and our readiness to work collaboratively under your distinguished chancellorship,” she stated.
She further prayed that the monarch’s tenure would usher in “greater unity, increased institutional visibility and remarkable milestones,” assuring him of the university’s “unwavering support.”
In his response, the Alara accepted the role with humility, recalling his long academic journey at LASU. As an Alumni, he reminisced on his days as a Master’s degree student who graduated in 1995 and revealed that he is currently pursuing his doctorate.
Reflecting on the institution’s standards, he said he once marveled at LASU’s strict admission cut-off marks, which, in his words, “signal academic excellence.” He also pledged to be a worthy ambassador of the university, promising to “do all in my capacity to be the face of the institution.”
Goodwill messages poured in from fellow monarchs. The Alade Uraka of Poka Land, HRM Oba Kolawole Aliru, commended the Lagos State Governor for promoting inclusiveness in governance, while the Adegbajo of Odo-Gbawojo, HRM Oba Adelani Adeniyi, said he was not surprised by the appointment, citing the Alara’s proven leadership qualities.
The Alara of Ilara Kingdom, a former Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) and Coordinator of Traditional Rulers in South-West Nigeria under the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, was appointed Chancellor of LASU by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on February 13, 2025, making him the first traditional ruler in Lagos State to attain such a prestigious academic height.
