- Royalty Meets Academia as Alara of Ilara Emerges LASU Chancellor
- The appointment made under the Lagos State University Law of 2004 as amended, makes him the first traditional ruler to hold the position in the university’s history
- Sule said “Kabiyesi comes at a critical and exciting time in the history of this great institution
The Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, has taken on a historic new role as the 6th Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), marking a moment that blends traditional authority with modern academic leadership.
Eko Hot Blog reports that a respected monarch in Epe Division of Lagos, Ogunsanwo’s journey to the chancellorship reflects a mix of public service, academic pursuit and cultural stewardship.
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Before ascending the throne, he built a strong career in public administration and finance, serving as Chairman of the Lagos State Inland Revenue Service where he was credited with strengthening revenue generation and institutional reforms.
Beyond governance, the royal father has remained connected to academia. His dual role as a scholar and custodian of culture places him in a unique position to influence both policy and values within the university system.
Known for promoting community development and preserving Yoruba heritage, Ogunsanwo has consistently supported initiatives that encourage education, social cohesion and grassroots growth across his kingdom. His leadership blends administrative experience with the moral authority of traditional rulership.
It was against this background that Babajide Sanwo-Olu formally invested him as Chancellor during a ceremony at the State House, Alausa.
The appointment, made under the Lagos State University Law of 2004 as amended, makes him the first traditional ruler to hold the position in the university’s history.
Sanwo-Olu said, “This appointment is both deliberate and historic. For the first time since the establishment of Lagos State University, a traditional ruler has been entrusted with the exalted office of chancellor.
The appointment is deliberate because it reflects our recognition of the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in governance, social cohesion, and moral leadership.
“Oba Ogunsanwo’s emergence represents a convergence of tradition and modernity, which is an essential alignment for a society seeking sustainable progress.
The office of the chancellor occupies a unique and revered place in the life of the university. It is a position that symbolises continuity, dignity, and the enduring values upon which the institution is built. Beyond its ceremonial significance, the chancellor serves as a moral compass, a custodian of tradition, and an ambassador of the university’s ideals.”
The governor charged the new chancellor to uphold the dignity and traditions of the university while promoting unity among its governing organs. He also said the public expects him to sustain LASU’s reputation as a centre of excellence producing academically sound, ethically grounded and socially responsible graduates.
Sanwo-Olu added, “This investiture marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of LASU. It is a chapter that, we are confident, will be defined by stability, growth and renewed prestige.
“We will continue to provide the enabling environment necessary for the university to thrive, while also expecting the highest standards of performance and accountability from all stakeholders.”
Also speaking, Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, described the appointment as “a fusion of intellect, heritage and higher learning”, noting that the monarch’s experience would help the university meet global demands.
Sule said, “Kabiyesi comes at a critical and exciting time in the history of this great institution. The expectations are high, but so too is the confidence we repose in his leadership. His appointment brings forth a rare blend of traditional authority and modern insight that will undoubtedly strengthen the moral, cultural, and intellectual fabric of the university.”
In his acceptance remarks, Oba Ogunsanwo promised to work closely with the Visitor, the Governing Council and the university management to strengthen the values and traditions that define the institution’s aspirations.
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