In a grand and illustrious ceremony that drew eminent figures from academia, private industries, and politics, the Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU), Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, was celebrated with the launch of a book chronicling her remarkable life and achievements. The prestigious event, held on Monday, 14th October 2024, at Ijakadi Hall, Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, marked a defining moment in recognising one of Nigeria’s most outstanding educators and leaders.
The book, titled CHRONICLES OF PROFESSOR IBIYEMI OLATUNJO-BELLO, mni, NPOM, provides a compelling and detailed exploration of her extraordinary career, visionary leadership, and outstanding 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, positioning the university on the global stage and enhancing the academic experiences of students.
Opening the monumental event with a welcome address, Professor M. O. B. Mohammed, FNAEAP, Director, Centre for General Nigerian Studies (CGNS) and Chairman of the Organising Committee, described the launch as a celebration of Professor Olatunji-Bello’s third anniversary in office. He used the acronym “IBIYEMI” to illustrate the Vice-Chancellor’s exemplary traits, which include integrity, brilliance, benevolence, innovative, and intellectual sagacity.
He further lauded her remarkable virtues and outlined the book’s rich content, also
noting that the event was entirely funded by generous donors, at no cost to the university. He added that proceeds from the book launch would go towards an endowment in honour of the Vice-Chancellor.
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 transcends the academia. She praised the Vice-Chancellor ’s leadership, which has steered LASU to unprecedented heights, calling her a role model for women in public administration and academia. “Since assuming office, LASU has experienced tremendous growth, becoming the most digitalised and best state university in Nigeria, thanks to her foresight,” Princess Orelope-Adefulire remarked.
The book was reviewed by Professor B. B. Lafiaji-Okuneye, Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University of Education (LASUED). She espoused on the content of the book, hailing it as a significant work documenting Professor Olatunji-Bello’s extraordinary journey. She emphasised that the book is an essential record of the Vice-Chancellor’s legacy of service, leadership, and academic transformation.
In a goodwill message, Hon. Tolani Sule, Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Kasali, described Professor Olatunji-Bello as a visionary and innovative leader who has successfully placed LASU at the forefront of academic excellence in Nigeria and beyond.
Sir David Sunmoni, Chairman of LASU’s Governing Council, in his tribute, noted that Professor Olatunji-Bello’s achievements are too vast to be captured in a single volume. He praised her for her relentless efforts to elevate LASU’s profile on the world stage, describing her as a “woman of substance and an achiever.”
Mr Samuel Otesanya, representing the University Registrar, Mr Emmanuel A. FANU, who spoke on behalf of the university management, highlighted the professor of Physiologys’ fair and diligent approach to university governance, noting that she consistently prioritises the welfare of staff and students, further cementing her legacy as a compassionate and effective leader.
Other goodwill messages came from Prof. Ibrahim Olateju, Dean, Postgraduate School, who spoke on behalf of the Deans, Dr Adejo Olujinmi, Chairman NAAT, who spoke on behalf of staff unions, and Engr Bayo Akinwunmi, who spoke on behalf of all the donors.
The Chief Book Launcher, serial entrepreneur, and philanthropist Dr Bamidele Chris Onalaja, Group Managing Director of Revolution Plus Properties, 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 theatres and hostel accommodations for students. Other dignitaries present at the occasion also handsomely made donations towards the book launch.
In her heartfelt response, Professor Olatunji-Bello expressed deep gratitude for the honour 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, who mesmerised the audience with their vibrant display, while DJ Flexy provided music that enlivened the atmosphere. Awards of appreciation were presented to contributors and donors who played pivotal roles in the success of the book launch.
Contributors to the book include PAR/Administrative Secretary CGNS, Mr Ademola Adekoya, Mr Adeyemi Sulaimon Dada, Mr Adewunmi Olori, Mr Seun Gbanja, Mrs Abidat Mohammed and Mr Abdulkareem Ogunlabi.
The event was graced by captains of industry, family and friends of the Vice-Chancellor, members of the university management, staff unions, student union executives, students, and other key stakeholders. It was a fitting tribute to an exceptional leader whose indelible mark continues to inspire and uplift LASU.
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