It is the dawn of a new era at the University of Lagos Consultancy Services Ltd (UNILAG Consult) as Professor John Lekan Oyefara of the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences steps in as the company’s Managing Director on Thursday, May 1, 2025.
As a precursor to the big day, Professor Oyefara received hand-over notes from his outgoing predecessor, Professor Muhammed Usman, at an intimate ceremony held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at the premises of UNILAG Consult.
On hand to witness the handing-over ceremony were key board members of the establishment, including the Chairman, Professor Uchenna Udeani; Professor Babatunde Oke, Professor Hikmot Koleoso, Barrister Kemi Omotubora, and Board Secretary, Mrs. Dorcas Olagunju. Their presence highlighted the significance of the transition for the organization’s continued legacy of excellence.
In her remarks, Professor Udeani paid glowing tributes to Professor Usman’s exceptional leadership, crediting him with elevating UNILAG Consult to new heights of distinction.
“Professor Usman’s resolute dedication and visionary approach have crafted a legacy of innovation and impact, making the consultancy a beautiful place for academic and professional excellence”, she said.
She expressed unyielding confidence in Professor Oyefara’s ability to advance the legacy of the Consult to achieve even greater milestones.
Reflecting on his tenure, Professor Usman shared highlights of notable achievements, including expanded service offerings and strengthened institutional collaborations. With humility, he remarked, “We have laid a strong foundation, but there are boundless opportunities ahead. I am certain Professor Oyefara’s expertise and commitment will steer UNILAG Consult to new horizons.”
Professor Oyefara, receiving the handover note, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity and the trust bestowed upon him. He promised to honour the legacy of his predecessors while charting new paths for growth.
The ceremony closed with heartfelt congratulations and a shared sense of optimism for the future. Board members and attendees expressed their desire for UNILAG Consult’s continued success under Professor Oyefara’s leadership, which officially begins on Thursday, May 1, 2025.
With over 30 years of professional experience, Professor Oyefara is a seasoned academic whose research contributions have significantly advanced knowledge in his field. His expertise in strategic planning and institutional growth has seen him serve UNILAG in various capacities, and also earned him appointments with reputable local and international organisations including the Federal Government of Nigeria, state governments, and World Bank among others.
The 1994 First Class graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, obtained his Masters and Doctorate Degrees in Sociology (Demography and Population Studies) from the University of Ibadan in 1998 and 2005 respectively.
Professor Oyefara is a Fellow of the Nigerian Anthropological and Sociological Practitioners Association (FNASA).
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Michael Joshua
