- Oba Ogunsanwo describes the reception as a celebration of the collective achievements of Ilara and Okemagba.
- The monarch says his appointment as LASU’s 6th Chancellor is a call to greater service.
- Alara reaffirms commitment to education, youth development and community progress.
The Alara of Ilara Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, JP, Telade IV, has expressed profound appreciation to the Okemagba Development Association and the people of Okemagba for organising a grand reception in celebration of his investiture as the sixth Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU).
Eko Hot Blog reports that the reception, held over the weekend, came months after Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu appointed the revered monarch as the sixth Chancellor of the state-owned institution.
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His investiture marked a historic moment for LASU, making him the first traditional ruler to serve as Chancellor since the university was established.
Traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, academics, religious leaders, family members and well-wishers attended the colourful reception, which celebrated the monarch’s new academic leadership role and his continued service to Ilara Kingdom.
In an appreciation speech delivered at the event, Oba Ogunsanwo thanked Almighty God and the Okemagba Development Association for what he described as a memorable and heartwarming reception.
He said the honour was far greater than a personal celebration, noting that it reflected the unity, resilience and shared aspirations of the people of Ilara Kingdom and the entire Okemagba community.
“I stand before you today with a heart overflowing with gratitude to Almighty God and to every one of you who has made this occasion so memorable,” the monarch said while thanking guests for their goodwill and support.
Oba Ogunsanwo said his appointment as Chancellor should be seen as a collective achievement, dedicating the recognition to the sons and daughters of Ilara Kingdom, whose prayers, encouragement and unwavering support have continued to inspire him.
The royal father also conveyed his appreciation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for finding him worthy of the appointment, pledging to uphold the ideals of excellence, integrity and responsible leadership expected of the office.
He described the position as “another call to service,” promising to support initiatives that would strengthen academic excellence, research, innovation and the global reputation of Lagos State University.
Before ascending the throne as the 55th Alara of Ilara in 2020, Oba Ogunsanwo built a distinguished 26-year career in the Lagos State Civil Service, rising to become Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS). His appointment as Chancellor has been widely regarded as a recognition of his experience in public administration and community leadership.
The monarch also acknowledged the presence of fellow traditional rulers, members of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, political office holders, religious leaders, community associations and other distinguished guests who joined in celebrating the milestone.
Reaffirming his commitment to Ilara Kingdom, Oba Ogunsanwo pledged to continue promoting peace, preserving the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage, encouraging quality education and championing programmes that would empower young people and attract sustainable development.
He further urged sons and daughters of Okemagba to remain united, irrespective of political or religious differences, stressing that meaningful development can only be achieved through cooperation, mutual respect and a shared vision for the future.
The Alara concluded by dedicating the honour to God, the forefathers of Ilara Kingdom and the people of Okemagba, praying for continued peace, progress and prosperity across the community, Lagos State and Nigeria.
