In a landmark meeting that promises to chart a new course for Lagos State University (LASU), kakalistiq.com reports that the institution’s Governing Council, led by Pro-Chancellor Barrister Babatunde Ogala SAN, alongside Vice-Chancellor Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello and senior management staff, paid a courtesy visit to the newly appointed Chancellor, HRM Alayeluwa Oba Olukayode Ogunsanwo, Telade IV, at the historic Ilara Kingdom palace in Epe.
Barrister Ogala hailed the monarch’s appointment by Governor Babajide Sanwoolu as “a fitting recognition of your intellect, goodwill, and dedication to service.” He likened the Chancellor’s role to that of a father providing direction, while the Vice-Chancellor serves as a mother to the over 70,000-strong student community, noting Professor Olatunji-Bello’s title as Senior Abiyamo of Nigeria. “It’s been an exciting time since your appointment, and we are eager to see your investiture by Mr. Governor. We will drive the vehicle, you give us the directions,” he said, setting a tone of collaboration.
Highlighting LASU’s remarkable stability, the Pro-Chancellor noted that the university has remained the only government institution in the country not to embark on strike with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in the past six years. He further outlined the Governing Council’s blueprint for transformation, emphasizing ongoing collaborations with European and American universities, as well as corporate organizations, to enhance academic excellence.
In response, members of the Governing Council affirmed the Monarch’s readiness to serve. Professor Amuwo remarked, “The fact that a Paramount Ruler like Alara studies in LASU as a doctoral student is proof that this institution has always been a beacon of excellence.” Alhaji Ebiti added, “With his governance experience, the Monarch is more than equal to the task. His appointment signals that years of hard work have paved the way for even greater responsibilities.” Both expressed confidence in a strong partnership between the Chancellor and the Council.
In his address, Alara described the meeting as providential, highlighting the historical ties and prior collaborations with the university’s leadership. “Today is another beautiful day in the history of the Epe Division. I’m grateful to my chiefs for maintaining peace at home while I attended national duties. This appointment is for you,” he said, earning applause from those gathered.
Paying tribute to past Chancellors, Vice-Chancellors, and stakeholders, Alara singled out the current Vice-Chancellor, describing her as a “tireless mother” to LASU’s student body. He expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwoolu for making him the first royal father in LASU’s history to occupy the role of Chancellor. He also lauded the university’s ICT capabilities, noting how he had been able to participate in seminars and lectures online while far away from the state or abroad on national assignments.
Alara pledged to study the institution’s blueprint and make strategic contributions, promising to ensure that satellite campuses across Lagos State receive adequate support. “Partnerships with institutions abroad have been exemplary, and I am committed to ensuring my tenure brings greatness to LASU,” he said.
The visit concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from the Ikeji Ilu of Ilara, Chief Balogun Azeez, who lauded both the monarch and the university leadership for their dedication to advancing education in the State.
