The Department of History and International Studies, Lagos State University (LASU), recently hosted the 2026 edition of its Model United Nations (LASUMUN) Summit, bringing together students to simulate global diplomacy while fostering dialogue, leadership, and international cooperation.
Held under the theme, “Be the Light, Lead the World,” the summit provided participants with an engaging platform to deliberate on contemporary global issues, promote peaceful conflict resolution and strengthen the ideals of diplomacy and global citizenship.
Declaring the summit open, the Head of Department, History and International Studies, Professor Bashir *Animashaun*, noted that the world’s most pressing challenges, including climate change, economic instability, technological disruption, and regional conflicts transcend national boundaries and therefore require collective global action.
He described the theme of the summit as a timely call to action, stressing that diplomacy remains humanity’s most viable pathway to resolving international disputes in an increasingly fragmented world.Professor Animashaun urged participants to see the Model United Nations as more than an academic simulation, encouraging them to embrace a lifelong commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development and the pursuit of global peace.
In his goodwill message, the Dean, Faculty of Arts, Professor Ayo *Ayodele*, commended the students for demonstrating the values and principles of diplomacy through their participation in the summit.According to him, the theme underscores the essence of true leadership, which is founded on service, integrity and knowledge.He observed that genuine leadership is about guiding humanity towards unity despite cultural, political and geographical differences, describing the gathering as “an embryo of what the world should be.”
Professor Ayodele encouraged the delegates to cultivate diplomacy, critical thinking, effective communication and global citizenship, emphasising that such values are indispensable not only in international relations but also in addressing humanity’s common challenges.He further urged the participants to allow the lessons from the summit to extend beyond the conference halls and become a way of life, stressing that the world’s shared humanity must always prevail over artificial divisions and conflict.
In his goodwill message, Professor Habeeb Sanni commended the organisers for providing a platform that nurtures future diplomats and leaders, urging the delegates to uphold the principles of dialogue, mutual respect and global cooperation as they prepare to contribute meaningfully to nation-building and international development.
Representing the United Nations Secretariat, Adeyemi *Oluwabukunmi* reflected on the vision that birthed the United Nations following the devastating global conflicts of the past, noting that the organisation was established to replace hostility with cooperation and to advance peace, justice and sustainable development through dialogue.
She described the United Nations as a symbol of humanity’s collective resolve to uphold international law, defend human rights and provide a platform where nations, regardless of their size or strength, can collaboratively address global challenges.
She charged delegates to approach every discussion with respect, diplomacy and open-mindedness, reminding them that every resolution proposed and every speech delivered has the potential to inspire meaningful change.Calling on participants to become ambassadors of peace, voices of justice and champions of unity, she expressed optimism that the summit would strengthen their commitment to building a more peaceful, equitable and sustainable world.
A major highlight of the summit was the plenary session, during which delegates representing various countries, including Nigeria, the United States of America, South Africa, Israel, China, South Korea, Iran, Russia, Ukraine and the United Kingdom, delivered country statements on pressing issues confronting the global community.
Through their speeches, the delegates addressed challenges such as terrorism, poverty, youth development, climate change and regional conflicts, including the Russia–Ukraine and Iran–Israel crises. They underscored the importance of diplomacy, international partnerships and multilateral cooperation in promoting global peace, security and sustainable development.
The country representatives highlighted the progress nations have recorded through collaboration in combating terrorism, strengthening global security and advancing socio-economic development. They also emphasised that justice can only flourish where truth is applied fairly and consistently, while affirming that the future of the world depends on unity, cooperation and shared responsibility rather than division.
Delivering the vote of thanks and closing remarks, the Convener of the LASUMUN Summit, Professor Olawale Lawal, expressed profound appreciation to the delegates, faculty members, organisers and invited guests for their invaluable contributions to the success of the summit. He commended the participants for their impressive display of intellectual depth, diplomatic engagement and commitment to constructive dialogue throughout the proceedings. Professor Lawal urged the delegates to sustain the values of peace, integrity, cooperation and responsible leadership beyond the conference, emphasising that the true essence of the Model United Nations lies in translating the lessons of diplomacy into meaningful actions that advance global peace, justice and sustainable development. He expressed optimism that the knowledge and experiences gained would inspire the participants to emerge as exemplary leaders and ambassadors of positive change within their communities and beyond.
The summit concluded with vibrant cultural and musical performances celebrating the universal themes of love, peace and unity, adding colour to the event and reinforcing the message that diversity remains one of humanity’s greatest strengths.
The event was by attended by eminent professors and academic members of staff from the department of History and International Studies
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