- Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara, has officially accepted his five-year appointment as the 6th Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU).
- In a powerful address at his palace in Eredo LCDA, the monarch described the role as a “sacred call to service” aimed at securing the future of the next generation.
- The Pro-Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor expressed confidence that the monarch’s vast administrative and traditional experience will drive the institution to new global heights.
The serene and historic atmosphere of the Ilara Kingdom was charged with intellectual and traditional energy this week as the Governing Council of Lagos State University (LASU) paid a formal congratulatory visit to the palace of the Alara of Ilara.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the visit followed the landmark appointment of His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, as the 6th Chancellor of the institution by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
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This appointment, which took effect on February 13, 2026, marks a significant milestone for the university, bringing a monarch with a distinguished 26-year career in public service, including a stint as the Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, to the head of its ceremonial and administrative hierarchy.
During his acceptance speech, which was delivered with the poise of a seasoned administrator and the authority of a first-class monarch, the Alara spoke deeply about the transformative role of higher education.
Addressing the university leadership, the monarch stated, “Education remains the bedrock of any developing society, and I see this appointment not merely as an honor, but as a sacred call to service that requires our collective strategic thinking and total commitment.”
He emphasized that his vision for LASU is one of inclusivity and progress, promising to leverage his global network and professional background to ensure the university remains a top-tier destination for academic research and innovation.
A central theme of the Alara’s speech was the necessity of collaboration between the traditional institution and the academic world.
He noted that for a university to truly thrive, it must be grounded in the values of the community it serves while reaching for global standards.
“We must foster a synergy between traditional wisdom and modern academic rigor,” the monarch declared. He further promised to play a proactive role in supporting the university’s management to attract private-sector partnerships, particularly in areas of infrastructure and youth empowerment.
His words, “I am a perfectionist who takes nothing short of excellence,” resonated strongly with the delegation, signaling a tenure that will prioritize quality and delivery over mere rhetoric.
The monarch also took a moment to acknowledge the peaceful atmosphere currently enjoyed by the university, urging all stakeholders to protect the stability of the institution.
He described industrial harmony as the “fertile soil” upon which academic brilliance is grown.
He pledged to be a “father to all” within the university community, ensuring that the interests of both the staff and the students are protected.
As a former tax administrator who rose through the ranks of the civil service, the Alara’s speech highlighted his intent to bring “managerial expertise and modern governance ideas” into his new role, ensuring that LASU continues to represent the dignity and excellence of Lagos State on the international stage.
As the visit concluded, the university management, led by the Vice-Chancellor, expressed their deep appreciation for the monarch’s readiness to serve.
The appointment has been widely celebrated across the Epe Division, with local leaders and fellow traditional rulers describing it as a “well-deserved recognition of intellectual depth.”
With the monarch’s closing words, “We have a duty to the next generation to leave this institution better than we found it,” a new chapter of leadership has officially begun at Lagos State University.
The community remains optimistic that under the guidance of Oba Ogunsanwo, LASU will reach unprecedented heights of stability, innovation, and global relevance.
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