The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, Prof Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello on Thursday, 19th February 2026, led the University Management team on a familiarisation visit to the institution’s newly appointed Chancellor, HRM Oba Dr Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, at his palace in Epe Kingdom.
Oba Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara Epe, was recently appointed as the 6th Chancellor of LASU by the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Olusola *Sanwo-Olu*, following the expiration of the tenure of the immediate past Chancellor, Prof. Gbolahan Elias, SAN.
Addressing the paramount ruler, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Olatunji-Bello, said the delegation was at the palace to formally pay homage and congratulate the new Chancellor on his appointment.
The professor of Physiology noted that the monarch’s ascension to the noble office reflected not only his distinguished royal heritage but also his unwavering commitment to scholarship, leadership and service to humanity.
“Your ascension to this noble office reflects not only your distinguished royal heritage but also your commitment to scholarship, leadership and service to humanity,” she stated. “As the Alara of Ilara Epe, you have demonstrated leadership rooted in tradition and community development. We are confident that these same virtues will enrich and elevate Lagos State University.”
Describing the new Chancellor as a bridge between heritage and innovation, Prof. *Olatunji-Bello* added, “With you, we see a custodian of values and a father figure whose guidance will continue to strengthen the moral fabric of LASU.
Your depth of experience and exposure will undoubtedly inspire our students to pursue excellence not only in academia but also in character and lifelong learning.”
In his response, Oba *Ogunsanwo* expressed gratitude to God for the appointment and thanked Governor *Sanwo-Olu* for finding him worthy of the responsibility, which he said he accepted with humility, honour and respect.
He noted that he was not a stranger to LASU, having obtained a Master’s degree from the University in 1995 and being currently enrolled in a PhD in Business Administration. “My joy is that your products are now being sent back to you to be of value,” he said.
The monarch paid tribute to his predecessors, particularly Prof. Gbolahan *Elias*, SAN, commending their contributions to the growth of the University in collaboration with past and present Vice-Chancellors.
“I will give my all, my knowledge, goodwill and experience, to ensure that we take LASU to a position of reckoning in the world,” he pledged. “I will be a father figure and a face for LASU, so that when we look back, we will thank God.”
He further assured the Management of his commitment to exploring broader opportunities for collaboration, including in artificial intelligence, and attracting well-meaning Nigerians to support the continued development of the University.
Oba *Ogunsanwo* was in the company of his wife, Olori Bolanle *Ogunsanwo*, other traditional rulers of surrounding kingdoms- HRM Oba Ayodele *Aliru*, the Alade of Uraka Poka Land and HRM Oba Adelani Adeniyi *Oke*, the Adegbajo of Odo-Gbawojo Kingdom as well as the Alara-in-Council of Ilara, the Baale-in-Council of Ilara and other well-wishers.
Members of the LASU Management team on the visit included the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, Prof. Oseni *Afisi*; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Oluwatoyin *Enikuomehin*; the Registrar, Mr Emmanuel *Fanu*; the Bursar, Mr Said Babatunde *Olayinka*; and the University Librarian, Dr Olawunmi *Makinde*.
Also present were the Deputy Registrar, Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Dr Lateef *Shekoni*; Deputy Registrar/Special Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor, Dr Lateef *Salami*; Deputy Registrar/Head, Council Affairs Division, Mr Oladele *Olorunfunmi*; Deputy Registrar/ Coordinator, Centre for Information and Public Relations, Mrs Oluwayemisi *Thomas-Onashile*; Admissions Officer, Mr Agboola *Bamgboye*; Media Aide to the Vice-Chancellor, Mr Oluwaseun *Gbanja*; Personal Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor, Mrs Fatima *Ogunniyi*; Administrative Officer I, Mr Bisiriyu *Obasa*; Administrative Officer II, Mr Tunji *Salami*; and Mrs Grace *Ologeh*.
The official investiture of the Chancellor will take place at a yet-to-be-announced date.
