The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, was honoured with with the launch of a book chronicling her remarkable life and achievements.
The event took place on Monday October 14, 2024, at the Ijakadi Hall of Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, marking a significant moment in recognizing one of Nigeria’s most outstanding educators and leaders.
The book, titled “CHRONICLES OF PROFESSOR IBIYEMI OLATUNJI-BELLO, mni, NPOM,” offers an insightful exploration of her extraordinary career, visionary leadership, and significant contributions to both LASU and public service. Since her appointment as the 9th substantive Vice-Chancellor of LASU, Olatunji-Bello has made unparalleled strides in academic excellence, infrastructural development, and institutional reform, enhancing the university’s profile on the global stage and enriching the academic experiences of its students.
The monumental event commenced with a welcome address from Professor M. O. B. Mohammed, FNAEAP, Director of the Centre for General Nigerian Studies (CGNS) and Chairman of the Organizing Committee.
He described the launch as a celebration of Professor Olatunji-Bello’s third anniversary in office, using the acronym “IBIYEMI” to highlight the Vice-Chancellor’s exemplary traits: integrity, brilliance, benevolence, innovation, and intellectual sagacity. He further praised her remarkable virtues and noted that the event was fully funded by generous donors, free of cost to the university.
“Proceeds from the book launch will go towards an endowment in honor of the Vice-Chancellor,” he added.
In her stirring opening remarks, the Chairman of the Book Launch, H. E. Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, OFR, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), extolled Professor Olatunji-Bello as a woman of vision and intellect, whose influence extends beyond academia.
Princess Orelope-Adefulire emphasized the Vice-Chancellor’s leadership as pivotal in steering LASU to unprecedented heights, stating, “Since assuming office, LASU has experienced tremendous growth, becoming the most digitalized and best state university in Nigeria, thanks to her foresight.”
The book was reviewed by Professor B. B. Lafiaji-Okuneye, Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), who hailed it as a significant work documenting Professor Olatunji-Bello’s extraordinary journey. She emphasized that the book serves as an essential record of the Vice-Chancellor’s legacy of service, leadership, and academic transformation.
Hon. Tolani Sule, Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Kasali, conveyed a goodwill message that described Professor Olatunji-Bello as a visionary and innovative leader who has successfully positioned LASU at the forefront of academic excellence in Nigeria and beyond.
Sir David Sunmoni, Chairman of LASU’s Governing Council, also paid tribute, noting that Professor Olatunji-Bello’s achievements are too vast to be encapsulated in a single volume. He praised her relentless efforts to elevate LASU’s global profile, calling her a “woman of substance and an achiever.”
Mr. Samuel Otesanya, representing the University Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel A. FANU, expressed appreciation for the professor of Physiology’s fair and diligent approach to governance, highlighting her commitment to prioritizing the welfare of staff and students, which further cements her legacy as a compassionate and effective leader.
Additional goodwill messages came from Prof. Ibrahim Olateju, Dean of the Postgraduate School; Dr. Adejo Olujinmi, Chairman of NAAT; and Engr. Bayo Akinwunmi, speaking on behalf of all the donors.
The Chief Book Launcher, Dr. Bamidele Chris Onalaja, a serial entrepreneur and philanthropist, formally unveiled the book alongside Princess Orelope-Adefulire, Sir David Sunmoni, and other dignitaries. Dr. Onalaja made a significant donation and pledged to further support LASU through the construction of lecture theaters and hostel accommodations for students. The generosity continued as other dignitaries present also contributed to the book launch.
In her heartfelt response, Professor Olatunji-Bello expressed profound gratitude for the honor 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, which mesmerized the audience with their vibrant display, while DJ Flexy provided the music that enlivened the atmosphere. Awards of appreciation were presented to contributors and donors who played pivotal roles in the book launch’s success.
Contributors to the book include Mr. Ademola Adekoya, Mr. Adeyemi Sulaimon Dada, Mr. Adewunmi Olori, Mr. Seun Gbanja, Mrs. Abidat Mohammed, and Mr. Abdulkareem Ogunlabi.
The event was a gathering of industry leaders, family and friends of the Vice-Chancellor, university management, staff unions, student union executives, students, and other key stakeholders. It served as a fitting tribute to an exceptional leader whose indelible mark continues to inspire and uplift LASU.