The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, has described the ascension of the newly appointed Chancellor, HRM Oba Dr Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, as a reflection of his distinguished royal heritage and commitment to scholarship, leadership and service to humanity. She added that these virtues would further enrich and elevate Lagos State University (LASU).
Oba Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara-Epe, was recently appointed as the sixth Chancellor of LASU by Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, following the expiration of the tenure of the immediate past Chancellor, Gbolahan Elias.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the palace on Thursday, Prof. Olatunji-Bello said the delegation was there to formally pay homage and congratulate the monarch on his appointment.
She noted that his emergence as Chancellor reflected both his royal heritage and longstanding commitment to scholarship, leadership and service.
“Your ascension to this noble office reflects not only your distinguished royal heritage but also your commitment to scholarship, leadership and service to humanity,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
Describing the monarch as a bridge between heritage and innovation, she added that his leadership, rooted in tradition and community development, would further enrich the university.
“With you, we see a custodian of values and a father figure whose guidance will continue to strengthen the moral fabric of LASU. Your depth of experience and exposure will undoubtedly inspire our students to pursue excellence not only in academia but also in character and lifelong learning,” she said.
In his response, Oba Ogunsanwo expressed gratitude to God for his appointment and thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for the confidence reposed in him.
He noted his longstanding relationship with the university, having obtained a Master’s degree from LASU in 1995 and currently pursuing a PhD in Business Administration at the institution.
“My joy is that your products are now being sent back to you to be of value,” the monarch said.
He also paid tribute to his predecessors, particularly Prof. Gbolahan Elias, SAN, commending their contributions to the growth and development of the university.
Pledging his commitment to the institution, Oba Ogunsanwo assured the management of his readiness to deploy his knowledge, goodwill and experience to elevate LASU’s global standing.
“I will give my all to ensure that we take LASU to a position of reckoning in the world. I will be a father figure and a face for LASU, so that when we look back, we will thank God,” he said.
The Chancellor also signalled plans to explore broader opportunities for collaboration, including advancements in artificial intelligence, and to attract support from well-meaning Nigerians towards the continued development of the university.
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