Lagos State University Faculty of Management Sciences Concludes 2‑Day International Conference

The Faculty of Management Sciences at Lagos State University (LASU) successfully concluded its two‑day international conference held from 25 – 26 November 2025 at the Aderemi Makanjuola Lecture Theatre on the university’s main campus in Ojo, Lagos. The event was themed “Institutional Dynamics, Innovation and Inclusive Economic Development in Africa.”

The opening ceremony on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, was attended by academics, researchers, policymakers, practitioners, entrepreneurs and students — including international collaborators — who gathered to explore pathways toward inclusive economic growth across the continent.

Vice‑Chancellor of LASU, Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji‑Bello (represented by Dean of the Faculty of Education Professor Gbenga Akindoju), described the theme as timely given the myriad challenges facing Nigeria, Africa and the wider world. She noted Africa’s rich endowments while lamenting that corruption and related factors have hindered the realisation of its potential. She called for partnerships and collaboration among African governments, universities, industries and communities to lift millions out of poverty and improve living standards.

Keynote speaker Dr. Ayoola Oyeyemi — Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Internal Audit — urged African countries to synergise efforts, strengthen institutional frameworks and promote innovation to transform the continent’s economic narrative. She recommended that Regional Economic Communities across Central, West, East, North and Southern Africa coordinate policies, share best practices and attract investments balancing economic, social and environmental objectives.

Chairman of the conference Dr. Oluwaseyi Olanrewaju echoed the calls for unity and top‑level collaboration among African nations to eradicate poverty, curb corruption, enhance transparency and improve governmental efficiency. He urged LASU researchers and students to influence policymakers toward building strong institutions and a prosperous future for Nigeria and Africa.

Lead speaker Professor Kamil Omoteso — Deputy Vice‑Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University, United Kingdom — delivered his paper virtually, reiterating the need for an all‑inclusive economic development agenda. He criticised Africa’s lagging economic performance despite abundant mineral and agricultural resources, attributing the shortfall to corruption, maladministration, policy inconsistency, inter‑tribal conflicts and poor governance. He called on African leaders to develop homegrown solutions and urged institutions like LASU to produce rigorous research and collaborate with governments to drive economic development.

Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences Professor Akanji Bankole welcomed participants, expressing confidence that the speakers would comprehensively address the timely topic. Head of Department of Accounting Professor Khadijat Idowu delivered closing remarks, thanking attendees and announcing the presentation of awards to the Vice‑Chancellor, keynote speaker, lead paper presenter and the conference chairman.

The conference concluded on Wednesday, 26 November 2025 with a reaffirmation of LASU’s commitment to excellence — “We are LASU, We are Great!”