The Governor of Lagos State and Visitor to Lagos State University, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, 7th April 2026, formally conducted the investiture of the Onilara of Ilara Kingdom, Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, JP, Telade IV, as the 6th Chancellor of the University. Oba Ogunsanwo's investiture follows his appointment as the first traditional ruler to occupy the exalted position in LASU's history, in February this year.
The dignified ceremony, held at the Governor’s Office in Alausa, Ikeja, brought together an array of eminent personalities from government, academia, and traditional institutions.
In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the investiture not merely as a ceremonial obligation, but as “a significant milestone in the continued evolution of this great institution,” noting that it reflects a collective commitment to strengthening the governance structure, traditions, and global standing of LASU.
“It is an honour to know that LASU has come full circle,” the Governor remarked, pointing out that the University now boasts one of its alumni as Chancellor while consolidating its position among Nigeria's leading universities.
He emphasised the symbolic and moral weight of the office, stating that “the office of the Chancellor occupies a unique and revered place in our university. It symbolises continuity, dignity, and the enduring values upon which the institution is built.” Beyond ceremony, he noted, the Chancellor serves as “a moral compass, the custodian of traditions and the ambassador of the university within the wider society.”
Charging the newly installed Chancellor, the Governor urged him “to uphold the dignity and tradition of Lagos State University, to promote unity among its governing organs, and to serve as a worthy ambassador of this institution both within and outside the country,” adding that his role in strengthening partnerships, fostering goodwill, and projecting the University’s image would be invaluable.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to the continued growth of LASU, assuring the University community of “unwavering support, to provide the enabling environment necessary for the university to thrive,” while also expecting high standards of performance and accountability.
In a reflective moment, the Governor commended the leadership of the University, particularly the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, describing her as “a strong woman who has held her own,” and noting that her contributions to the institution’s progress deserved recognition.
In his acceptance address, the Chancellor, Oba Ogunsanwo, expressed profound gratitude to the Governor, the Governing Council, and the entire LASU community for the confidence reposed in him.
“This appointment carries special personal meaning to me,” he said, recalling his earlier years at the University. “In 1995, I came to this institution simply as a student pursuing a master’s degree. The discipline of study, the exchange of ideas and the intellectual culture of this university left a lasting impact on me.”
Reflecting on his journey, he described his investiture as a remarkable full-circle moment: “Standing here today in a ceremonial role where I once stood as a learner reminds me that life often completes its circles in remarkable ways.”
The monarch further revealed that his academic journey with LASU continues, as he is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration at the University. This, he noted, reinforces the enduring Yoruba wisdom: “Imo kii tan laye”—knowledge never ends.
Speaking on his responsibilities, the Chancellor acknowledged that the role goes beyond symbolism, encompassing leadership, support for academic excellence, and the promotion of institutional stability and global reputation. He pledged to work collaboratively with the Visitor, Governing Council, and University Management “to strengthen the values, traditions and aspirations that define this great citadel of learning.”
In his goodwill message, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Mr Babatunde Ogala, SAN, OFR, reaffirmed the University’s readiness to partner with the Lagos State Government in manpower development and strategic initiatives.
“We take seriously your mandate to identify our areas of comparative advantage and develop relevant solutions,” he said, disclosing ongoing partnership discussions with institutions in Finland and the United States, as well as with the Dangote Refinery. He added that the Council had already begun implementing a forward-looking vision for the University and welcomed the Chancellor as “yet another partner in progress.”
Similarly, the Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule, underscored the centrality of education to societal development, describing LASU as “not just a place of learning, but where the vision of Lagos is shaped and ideals are born.”
Addressing the Chancellor directly, he noted that while expectations were high, so too was the confidence reposed in him. “You are stepping in not just as a ceremonial figure, but as a father, a guide, a mentor and a moral compass,” he said, expressing optimism that the University would attain greater heights under his influence.
The ceremony was conducted by the Registrar and Secretary to the Governing Council of LASU, Mr Emmanuel Fanu.
Among those in attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Kadiri Hamzat; Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Tokunbo Abiru; Secretary to the State Government, Mrs ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin (Barr); Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro; Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos State, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Tayo Ayinde and the Oba of Lagos, HRM Oba Rilwan Aremu Akiolu I, alongside other revered traditional rulers.
Also present were members of the LASU Governing Council led by Mr Babatunde Ogala, SAN, OFR, and the University Management led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM.
The formal investiture was subsequently followed by a reception at Onikan, Lagos Island, chaired by the Regent of Awujale, Chief (Dr) Sonny Folorunsho Kuku.
The investiture of Oba (Dr) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo as Chancellor, thus stands as both a ceremonial milestone and a deeply symbolic moment, one that reflects continuity, celebrates legacy, and signals renewed aspirations for Lagos State University. It is, in many ways, a convergence of past and future, tradition and progress, learning and leadership, anchored in the enduring spirit of LASU.
We are LASU, We are Great!
