Sanwo-Olu Tasks New LASU Chancellor on Unity, Tradition and Institutional Integrity at Investiture Ceremony

Lagos State University formally installed Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, JP, Telade IV, as its 6th Chancellor on Tuesday, 7 April 2026, in a ceremony held at the Lagos State Government House, Alausa, Ikeja.

The investiture was conducted by the Governor of Lagos State and Visitor to the University, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, following the monarch’s appointment in February as the first traditional ruler to occupy the position in the institution’s history.

Describing the appointment as a milestone in the university’s institutional evolution, Sanwo-Olu said the role of Chancellor goes beyond ceremonial recognition, stressing that it represents continuity, governance stability, and the preservation of academic traditions.

He charged the new Chancellor to uphold the dignity and traditions of LASU, promote unity across its governing structures, and serve as a credible ambassador of the university within and outside Nigeria. He further emphasized the Chancellor’s role in strengthening partnerships, enhancing institutional reputation, and supporting the university’s strategic growth agenda.

The Governor also reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to sustaining LASU’s development through consistent support, improved governance frameworks, and an enabling environment for academic excellence.

In his response, Oba Ogunsanwo described his appointment as a full-circle moment, recalling his academic experience at LASU in 1995 as a postgraduate student. He noted that his return in a ceremonial leadership capacity reflected the enduring impact of the institution on his personal and intellectual development.

The monarch also disclosed that he is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration at the university, describing education as a continuous journey and aligning his perspective with the Yoruba principle that knowledge is never exhausted.

He pledged to work with the university’s leadership, governing council, and government stakeholders to strengthen institutional values, academic excellence, and global competitiveness.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Mr Babatunde Ogala, SAN, OFR, described the Chancellor’s appointment as an opportunity to deepen institutional partnerships and advance ongoing development initiatives, including collaborations with international institutions and private sector actors.

The Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule, also underscored the strategic importance of LASU to Lagos State’s development trajectory, describing the Chancellor’s role as both symbolic and advisory in strengthening institutional direction and mentorship culture.

The ceremony was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers including the Oba of Lagos, members of the university governing council, and senior management staff, followed by a reception at Onikan, Lagos Island.

The investiture marks a significant administrative and symbolic transition for LASU, reinforcing its governance structure while deepening the interface between tradition, academia, and public leadership.