- The monarch also emphasized the importance of local and international collaborations
- He stressed the need for LASU to expand opportunities in emerging technologies
- He described his continued academic journey as a testament to his belief in lifelong learning
His Royal Majesty, Oba Olukayode Olufolarin Ogunsanwo (Telade IV), the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, has outlined an ambitious vision for Lagos State University (LASU), promising to elevate the institution to greater heights through innovation, collaboration, and youth-focused development.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the university’s management to his palace following his appointment as the 6th Chancellor of LASU, Eko Hot Blog reports that the monarch expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government and described the appointment as both humbling and historic.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Grand Wedding Reception: Halimot, Saheed Mark Their Union
- Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA Celebrates Former Chairman, Hon. Segun Adetola, on Birthday
- Sanwo-Olu Flags Off Free Eye Screening for 1,000 Lagos Police Officers
“This appointment came as a very big surprise, but I see it as an honour not just to me, but to the entire traditional institutions in Lagos State,” he said, noting that he is the first traditional ruler to serve as Chancellor of the university.
Oba Ogunsanwo, who revealed his strong academic background, said he is currently a professor of Public Administration at the University of New York and is also pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration, with plans to graduate next year. He described his continued academic journey as a testament to his belief in lifelong learning and educational excellence.
Reflecting on LASU’s growth over the past 23 years, the monarch praised the institution as one of the state’s greatest legacies and a symbol of academic pride.
He commended past and present chancellors, vice-chancellors, and university administrators for their hard work and dedication, noting that LASU’s high admission standards and large number of applicants demonstrate its reputation for excellence.
“LASU is one of the best universities in Nigeria,” he declared. “The high standard and level of educational excellence speak for themselves.”
Outlining his priorities, Alara said he would engage closely with the Pro-Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, and relevant government officials to chart a new course for the institution.
He pledged to serve as a father figure to the university community and to use his experience in both public and private sectors to support its advancement.
A key focus of his tenure, he said, would be youth engagement, particularly in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). He stressed the need for LASU to expand opportunities in emerging technologies and prepare students for a rapidly evolving global landscape.
“In this era of artificial intelligence, we are going to explore more opportunities,” he said, adding that innovation must remain central to the university’s development strategy.
The monarch also emphasized the importance of local and international collaborations, stating that he would work to build partnerships with high-ranking universities and well-meaning Nigerians willing to contribute to LASU’s growth.
He called for balanced development across the university’s multiple campuses to ensure no part of the institution is left behind.
Oba Ogunsanwo reaffirmed his commitment to improving the welfare of both staff and students and strengthening the university’s ties with government and global institutions.
“As a Royal Father, I will ensure that LASU remains the best in all aspects, by God’s grace,” he said. “We are LASU. We are the greatest.”
He concluded by expressing confidence that unity, goodwill, and collective effort would drive the university’s continued success.
FURTHER READING
