- He noted that the visit provided an opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the university’s governance structure
- He particularly commended the university’s efforts to strengthen its academic programmes
- He stressed that sustained development in higher education requires collaboration among government
The Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the institution’s growth and development, pledging to leverage his office, influence and network to strengthen the university’s position among leading institutions globally.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Oba Ogunsanwo, who is the Alara of Ilara Kingdom and the sixth Chancellor of LASU, made the pledge during his maiden familiarisation visit to the university’s main campus in Ojo on Monday.
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Addressing the university community, the monarch expressed appreciation to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, members of management, staff and students for the warm reception accorded him since his appointment as Chancellor.
He noted that the visit provided an opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the university’s governance structure, administrative processes, academic programmes and strategic development agenda.
According to him, presentations made by the Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Oseni Taiwo Afisi, and the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Oluwatoyin Ayokunle Enikuomehin, offered valuable insight into the institution’s achievements, challenges and future aspirations.
The Chancellor praised the management for what he described as a comprehensive overview of the university’s operations and strategic direction, noting that LASU has continued to demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in teaching, research, innovation, community engagement and institutional development.
He particularly commended the university’s efforts to strengthen its academic programmes, expand research activities and embrace technology-driven learning in line with global best practices.
Oba Ogunsanwo also congratulated the university on its recent selection as the sole beneficiary institution for the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Centre of Excellence on Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Cyber Sciences (ARCS), a project valued at approximately ₦3 billion.
He described the development as a major milestone that would enhance research, innovation and capacity development not only within the university but across the South-West region.
According to him, the achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of the Governing Council, management, staff, students and other stakeholders committed to advancing the institution’s mandate.
The monarch further noted that discussions held during the visit on institutional priorities, infrastructure needs and strategic interventions revealed a university focused on sustaining growth, improving facilities and creating a conducive learning environment for students and researchers.
“As Chancellor, I remain committed to supporting every initiative aimed at advancing the vision and mission of Lagos State University. I will continue to deploy my experience, goodwill and network to support efforts that will further strengthen the university’s standing among leading institutions worldwide,” he said.
He stressed that sustained development in higher education requires collaboration among government, alumni associations, corporate organisations, development partners, philanthropists and friends of the university.
According to him, stronger partnerships will help attract the resources, investments and opportunities needed to accelerate institutional growth and academic excellence.
The Chancellor outlined his vision for the institution, saying he hopes to see LASU emerge as a globally competitive university, a centre of excellence in teaching, research and innovation, a hub for entrepreneurship and technological advancement, and a model of effective governance and administration.
He added that the university must continue to play a significant role in national development through quality education, impactful research and community service.
As part of the familiarisation visit, Oba Ogunsanwo toured several key facilities within the institution, including the Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire Lecture Hall, the Innovation Hub, Awori House, the Aderemi Makanjuola Lecture Theatre, the Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu Library Complex, LASU Radio, the Faculty of Computing and Information Technology Building, the Femi Gbajabiamila Conference Centre, students’ hostels and the Academic Resource Centre.
He said the tour offered him the opportunity to assess ongoing investments in infrastructure and facilities designed to enhance teaching, learning, research and student development.
The monarch concluded by urging members of the university community to remain committed to excellence, integrity, diligence and service, expressing confidence that collective efforts would help elevate LASU to greater heights.
He also called for continued harmony among academic and non-academic staff as well as students, stressing that a peaceful environment remains essential for the institution’s progress and success.
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