Encomium as CGNS celebrates LASU VC with book launch

By Clifford Ejenavi

Encomium filled the air as Centre for General Nigerian Studies (CGNS), Lagos State University (LASU) celebrated the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello with a book launch titled, “Chronicles of Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello”.

The launching of the book which was held in Lagos on Monday October 14, 2024 was well attended by highly respected academia, politicians and eminent personalities from the private sector.

Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, who was the Chairman of the occasion, said women with exemplary leadership like the LASU VC should be celebrated, adding that celebrating women with vision and intellect can never be overemphasised.

While extolling the Vice-Chancellor’s leadership, whose influence transcends the academia, Princess Orelope-Adefulire noted that the VC has steered LASU to unprecedented heights, calling her a role model for women in public administration and academia.

She said, “Since assuming office, LASU has experienced tremendous growth, becoming the most digitalised and best state university in Nigeria, thanks to her foresight.”

In a goodwill message, Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Kasali, described Professor Olatunji-Bello as a visionary and innovative leader who has successfully placed LASU at the forefront of academic excellence in Nigeria and beyond.

The book reviewer, Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Prof. Bidemi Lafiaji-Okuneye, espoused on the content of the book, commending it as a significant work documenting Prof. Olatunji-Bello’s extraordinary journey. She emphasised that the book is an essential record of the Vice-Chancellor’s legacy of service, leadership and academic transformation.

The Director, Centre for General Nigerian Studies (CGNS) and Chairman of the Organising Committee, Prof. Mubashiru Mohammed described the launch of the book as a celebration of Prof. Olatunji-Bello’s third anniversary in office. He used the acronym “IBIYEMI” to illustrate the Vice-Chancellor’s exemplary traits, Integrity, Benevolence, Innovative, Yearning, Exemplary leader, Magnificent, and Intellectual sagacity.

The CGNS Director lauded the VC’s remarkable virtues and outlined the book’s rich content, noting that the event was entirely funded by generous donors, at no cost to the university. He added that proceeds from the book launch would go towards an endowment in honour of the Vice-Chancellor.

Chairman of LASU’s Governing Council, Sir David Sunmoni, in his tribute noted that Prof. Olatunji-Bello’s achievements are too vast to be captured in a single volume. He praised her for her relentless efforts to elevate LASU’s profile on the world stage, describing her as a “woman of substance and an achiever.”

Mr. Samuel Otesanya, representative of the University Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel FANU, who spoke on behalf of the university management, highlighted the VC’s fair and diligent approach to university governance. He noted that the VC consistently prioritises the welfare of staff and students, further cementing her legacy as a compassionate and effective leader.

Other goodwill messages came from Dean, Postgraduate School, Prof. Ibrahim Olateju, who spoke on behalf of the Deans; Chairman NAAT, Dr Adejo Olujinmi, spoke on behalf of staff unions while Engr. Bayo Akinwunmi, spoke on behalf of all the donors.

The Chief Launcher of the book, a serial entrepreneur, and philanthropist, who is also the Group Managing Director of Revolution Plus Properties, Mr. Bamidele Onalaja, formally unveiled the book alongside Princess Orelope-Adefulire, Sir David Sunmoni, and other dignitaries. Mr Onalaja made a significant donation and pledged to further support LASU through the construction of lecture theatres and hostel accommodations for students. Other dignitaries present at the occasion also handsomely made donations towards the book launch.

In her heartfelt response, the VC expressed deep gratitude for the honour and recognition, promising to continue her dedicated service to the university and beyond. “This book is a call to do more, to serve more, and I will give my best until my last days in office, God willing”, she declared.

The ceremony was elevated by a captivating performance from the LASU Cultural Troupe, who mesmerised the audience with their vibrant display, while DJ Flexy provided music that enlivened the atmosphere. Awards of appreciation were presented to contributors and donors who played pivotal roles in the success of the book launch.

Contributors to the book include PAR/Administrative Secretary, CGNS, Mr. Ademola Adekoya, Mr Adeyemi Sulaimon Dada, Mr Adewunmi Olori, Mr Seun Gbanja, Mrs Abidat Mohammed and Mr Abdulkareem Ogunlabi.

The event was graced by captains of industry, family and friends of the Vice-Chancellor, members of the university management, staff unions, student union executives, students, and other key stakeholders. It was a fitting tribute to an exceptional leader whose indelible mark continues to inspire and uplift LASU.