PROFESSOR ADENIKE OMOTUNDE BOYO, GOD’S GIFT TO MY ADMINISTRATION
Professor Adenike Omotunde Boyo, as you conclude your tenure as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), I find myself reflecting deeply on our journey together, not just as colleagues leading this great university, but as sisters in purpose and destiny. You and I have walked a long, beautiful road, and as I look back, I can only thank God for the blessing of having you by my side.
You have been far more than my Deputy; you have been my right hand, my co-labourer, my confidant, and my friend. In every sense, you have carried the weight of leadership with grace, intelligence, and an unwavering sense of responsibility. There were many days when I had to be away from the university, sometimes for official duties – sometimes for other commitments – and I could rest easy because I knew that, with you in charge, Lagos State University (LASU) was in safe hands. You led with calm assurance, sound judgment, and a rare ability to turn challenges into opportunities. Truly, I could not have asked for a better Deputy Vice-Chancellor.
Your influence within our administration has been immense. Many people describe you as my “right-hand woman”, and I smile when I hear that because it is true. You have been part of every major decision, every strategic move, every turning point of this administration. You think ahead, you understand the pulse of the institution, and you always find a way to balance firmness with kindness. You have been my co-thinker, my mirror, and, at times, the voice of reason when I needed one.
When I remember how far we have come, I see the hand of God all through our story. When I was Acting Vice-Chancellor, you were the Assistant Director of the LASU Foundation (JUPEB) Programme, and even then I noticed your brilliance and dedication. You had an eye for detail, a mind for structure, and a heart for service. Later, when I was appointed to lead Lagos State University Directorate of Advancement (LASUDA), I had no hesitation choosing you as my Deputy. That was where our professional partnership truly took root. We worked hand-in-hand, and I discovered in you a loyal ally, one who stood firm, thought strategically, and delivered results with excellence.
When the time came for me to contest the Vice-Chancellorship, you didn’t just support me from the sidelines, you were at the forefront. You led the campaign for my election as Senate Representative on the Governing Council in 2018, and later, for my vice-chancellorship. You organised, strategised, encouraged, and mobilised with such strength and faith that even in moments of uncertainty, you gave me hope. I will never forget your words of encouragement and your unwavering belief that God’s plan would prevail. And indeed, He did, through you and all the other great men and women that worked with us, through our collective efforts, and through divine grace.
Since my emergence as the 9th substantive Vice-Chancellor of this great university in September 2021, you have continued to be one of the strongest pillars of this administration. You have been the steady hand that keeps things running smoothly, the thoughtful voice in our deliberations, and the compassionate heart that connects with staff and students alike. You embody the best of servant leadership – firm, fair, and deeply humane.
Professor Boyo, one of the things I cherish most about you is that you make leadership feel lighter. We share not only the work but also the laughter. You know when to offer wise counsel, when to challenge my thinking, and when to simply share a word of encouragement. I have always said that leadership is demanding, but having someone like you makes it worthwhile.
As you conclude your tenure as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), I want you to know how deeply I value you, not just for your competence and loyalty, but for your heart. You have given so much to this administration and to LASU. You have been a stabilising force, a visionary leader, and a woman of substance. Your contributions will continue to shape this university long after this chapter.
I pray that as you move forward, God will reward you for your faithfulness and service. He will enlarge your influence and open new doors for you. Our story is far from over. We started this journey together, and, by the grace of God, we will finish well together.
Thank you, Professor Adenike Boyo, for walking this path with me. You are indeed one of God’s greatest gifts to me and to Lagos State University.
May the Almighty God bless you, guide you, and continue to make you a light wherever you go. Amen.
Your friend and sister,
Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM
