LASU Alumna Aminat Yusuf Named 2026 Rhodes Scholar for West Africa

Lagos State University (LASU) is celebrating its alumna, Aminat Yusuf, who has been selected as the 2026 Rhodes Scholar for West Africa, one of the most prestigious academic honours globally.

Her achievement underscores LASU’s reputation as a hub for academic excellence and global talent.

Aminat, a legal scholar and practitioner, graduated from LASU’s Faculty of Law with a perfect 5.0 GPA, becoming the first student in the University’s history to do so at its 26th Convocation Ceremony. She currently works as an Associate at Olaniwun Ajayi LP, gaining experience in dispute resolution and project finance.

Her selection as a Rhodes Scholar came after a rigorous five-stage evaluation process, in which she finished first in the final stage, highlighting her discipline, intellect, and commitment to service. The scholarship, fully funded for two years, will support her tuition and living expenses at the University of Oxford, where she will commence studies in September 2026.

Founded in 1903, the Rhodes Scholarship is the world’s oldest international postgraduate scholarship, recognising young leaders with exceptional intellect, character, and a dedication to making a meaningful global impact.

In a statement, LASU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, expressed pride in Aminat’s accomplishment, noting that it represents both a personal triumph and a collective victory for LASU, Lagos State, Nigeria, and West Africa. She said Aminat’s success exemplifies the “LASU Spirit” of excellence on the global stage.