Lagos, Nigeria – October 14, 2024: A gathering of academics, colleagues, friends, and associates came together at the Radisson Blu Hotel’s Ijakadi Hall to honor Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), with the presentation of a book celebrating her significant contributions to education. Titled Chronicles of Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, the book showcases her journey and legacy as a transformative leader in academia.
The event, hosted by the Centre for General Nigerian Studies (CGNS), was marked by heartfelt tributes to Olatunji-Bello’s leadership. Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, praised her as an accomplished academic administrator, noting her transformative achievements at LASU and her role in elevating the institution’s global standing.
Describing Olatunji-Bello as a “woman of faith and passion,” Orelope-Adefulire highlighted her humility, integrity, and commitment to service, expressing confidence that LASU will continue to thrive under her leadership.
Sir David Sunmoni, Chairman of the LASU Governing Council, commended the book’s authors and suggested that it should be the first of many, given the extensive impact Olatunji-Bello has had during her tenure. He noted that she has not only met but exceeded the expectations of the Governing Council, putting LASU on the world map.
Prof. Bidemi Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye, Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), reviewed the book, calling it a source of inspiration that reflects Olatunji-Bello’s hard work and resilience. She emphasized that the narrative serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring leaders, especially women in academia.
The lead author, Prof. Mubashiru Mohammed, used Olatunji-Bello’s first name to symbolize her qualities: Integrity, Benevolence, Innovativeness, Yearning for excellence, Magnificence, and Intellectual sagacity.
Dr. Abayomi Kasali, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Education, also praised Olatunji-Bello’s remarkable contributions, highlighting her efforts in digital advancement, which have made LASU a leader in technological integration among state universities in Nigeria.
In her response, Olatunji-Bello expressed gratitude for the honor and acknowledged the challenges it brings. She pledged to continue her relentless service as the 9th substantive Vice Chancellor of LASU, affirming her commitment to the institution’s growth and success.
