PROFESSOR OLATUNJI-BELLO HONOURED WITH AFRICAN VICE-CHANCELLOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
A Canada-based non-governmental organisation, Pathway to Excellence, has named the Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, as the African Vice-Chancellor of the Year 2025 in recognition of her innovative and transformative leadership.
The Professor of Physiology received the award at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Victoria Island, on Thursday, 12th February 2026, alongside other distinguished Nigerians celebrated for outstanding achievements in their respective fields.
Presenting the award on behalf of the organisers, the Chairman of the Occasion and President of the Rotary Club of Ota, Amb. Chief Dr Adunni Jackie-Kassim, commended Prof. Olatunji-Bello for exemplifying good governance at the tertiary education level and for elevating the global profile of Lagos State University.
Earlier in his address, the Director of Pathway to Excellence, Dr Kennedy Iden, praised the Vice-Chancellor and other awardees as changemakers in a world yearning for hope. He remarked, “We may not always realise it, but people are watching what we do. Celebrating changemakers tonight is a testament to that truth.”
In her response, Prof. Olatunji-Bello expressed gratitude to the organisation for the honour. The multiple award-winning Vice-Chancellor noted that the recognition reflects the collective achievements of the University community.
“This award is not about me,” she said. “It is a celebration of collective commitment, shared vision and the unwavering dedication of an entire university community — my management team, our diligent staff and our world-class students. I dedicate this award to them.”
Other honourees at the event included the General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, Pastor Daniel Olukoya, and the Chief Medical Director of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from within and outside the country, including members of LASU Management: the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof. Oseni Taiwo Afisi; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration); the Registrar, Mr Emmanuel Fanu; the Special Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor, Dr Lateef Salami; the Admission Officer, Mr Agboola Bamgboye; the Media Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor, Mr Oluwaseun Gbanja; and the Personal Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor, Mrs Fatima Ogunniyi.
