By Ayomide Otitoju
Lagos State University (LASU) on Tuesday welcomed Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom in Epe, as its sixth Chancellor, marking the first time a traditional ruler has held the position in the institution’s history.
The investiture ceremony took place at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Alausa, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Visitor to LASU, presiding. The event was attended by members of the university’s Governing Council, management, and traditional rulers.
Under the Lagos State University Law of 2004 (as amended), the Visitor has the authority to appoint a Chancellor for a five-year term, renewable once. Ogunsanwo succeeds Prof. Gbolahan Elias, SAN, who completed his tenure.
Ogunsanwo, a former chairman of the Lagos State Inland Revenue Service, was praised by Governor Sanwo-Olu for his track record in community development, integrity, and cultural leadership. The Governor described the appointment as a historic convergence of tradition and modernity essential for the sustainable growth of the university.
“The office of the Chancellor symbolises continuity, dignity, and the enduring values upon which LASU is built. Beyond its ceremonial role, the Chancellor serves as a moral compass, custodian of tradition, and ambassador of the university’s ideals,” Sanwo-Olu said. He urged Ogunsanwo to uphold the university’s dignity, promote unity among its governing bodies, and sustain LASU’s reputation as a center of academic excellence and socially responsible leadership.
Hon. Tolani Sule described Ogunsanwo’s appointment as “a fusion of intellect, heritage, and higher learning,” highlighting his potential to leverage experience and connections to advance LASU’s global academic standing.
In his acceptance remarks, Oba Ogunsanwo, who is pursuing a doctoral degree in Business Administration at LASU, pledged to collaborate closely with the Visitor, Governing Council, and university management to strengthen the institution’s traditions and values.
This historic appointment is expected to usher in a new chapter of stability, growth, and enhanced prestige for Lagos State University.
