Governor Sanwo-Olu Commissions Newly Renovated J.F. Ade-Ajayi Auditorium at UNILAG

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) community came alive with celebration on Thursday, October 9, 2025, as Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State commissioned the newly renovated J.F. Ade-Ajayi (Main) Auditorium — a landmark facility now transformed to meet modern standards.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Governor described the rehabilitation as “a powerful reminder of what visionary leadership and collective effort can accomplish.”

He commended the University Management and project team for their dedication to transforming the iconic auditorium, which has long served as a hub of scholarship and cultural exchange, into a modern facility befitting its historical status. According to him, “We are not just celebrating a physical makeover, but the spirit of dedication and teamwork that made it all happen. The newly upgraded auditorium truly showcases the University’s commitment to creating a 21st-century learning environment.”

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, in her welcome address, expressed deep appreciation to the Lagos State Government for “bringing back the J.F. Ade-Ajayi Auditorium to life.” She recalled that the project began after the Governor’s earlier visit to the facility, during which he expressed concern over its state and pledged to fund its rehabilitation. The result, she said, is a remarkable transformation featuring over 2,000 new seats, brand-new chillers, carpets, as well as upgraded sound and lighting systems.

“The handshake between UNILAG and the Lagos State Government has always been strong,” she noted. “Though we are a federal institution, we are of Lagos and for Lagos. UNILAG would have had things rough if the Lagos State Government was not working with us.”

Professor Ogunsola described Governor Sanwo-Olu as “our Ọmọwálé” — a son of the soil whose generosity continues to uplift the University community. “We do not take it for granted. On behalf of the entire University of Lagos community, I express our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu,” she said.

Guests were also treated to a short visual documentary chronicling the transformation of the auditorium from its old state to the newly refurbished structure.

Delivering the Governor’s message, Barrister Salu-Hundeyin said, “This is what we call leadership, this is what we call true service to the people — and that is what the Governor has done with UNILAG.” She added that the Governor’s continued support for the University goes beyond his alumni ties. “He does this not only because he is an alumnus but because he sees the sincerity of the University Management under your leadership, Madam Vice-Chancellor. That is why he is willing to spend the hard-earned money of Lagos taxpayers on UNILAG.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his written remarks, said the renovation honours the legacy of the late Professor J.F. Ade-Ajayi, one of Africa’s most respected historians and a former Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG. “His name on this building serves as a tribute to his significant contributions to the growth of knowledge and education in Nigeria,” he noted. “It is incredibly rewarding to see that his legacy continues to motivate new generations of scholars and leaders.”

As the upgraded auditorium was declared open, Governor Sanwo-Olu urged the University community to “embrace a future filled with hope, where the voices and visions cultivated here will continue to inspire innovation, leadership, and transformation — not just for the University of Lagos, but for our entire nation.”

The ceremony was graced by dignitaries from both the Lagos State Government and the University community, including the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Tola Sule; Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Muyiwa Falaiye; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Professor Afolabi Lesi; Bursar, Mrs. Oluwafunmilola Adekunle; and the University Librarian, Professor Christopher Okiki, among others.