In a solemn ceremony, the Distance Learning Institute (DLI), in collaboration with the Students Affairs Division, University of Lagos, officially inaugurated the newly elected executives of the DLI Students Association (DLISA). The event took place at the Nurudeen Alao (DLI) Auditorium, University of Lagos, on Friday, May 23, 2025.
The newly sworn-in executives are:
| Olawale Samson Soyinka | President |
| Olaleye Morenikeji | Vice-President |
| Akin Andrew | General Secretary |
| Idoku Mabel | Public Relations Officer |
| Okpala Vivian Chioma | Treasurer |
| Aliyu Islamia Motunrayo | Assistant General Secretary |
| Kolawole Julius | Social Secretary |
| Adelaja Muyiwa Gboyega | Financial Secretary |
| Olori Adewale | Welfare Officer |
| Endurance Echewe | Sports Secretary |
Representative of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, at the swearing-in ceremony, the Dean of Students Affairs (DSA), Professor Musa Obalola, urged the newly elected executives to embrace their leadership responsibilities with humility and dedication. He emphasized that leadership is a call to service, and advised the new ex-co to be innovative and proactive in addressing students’ needs while fostering a culture of inclusivity.
Professor Obalola underscored the significance of democratic engagement, advocating for consultative and participatory leadership rather than autocratic governance. According to him, the challenges of leadership, though daunting, are surmountable through collaboration and exchange of ideas within the university community.
In her address, the Director of the Distance Learning Institute, Professor Risikat Dauda, highlighted the evolving role of the Institute in knowledge acquisition and leadership development. Encouraging the new executives to embrace governance with enthusiasm, she reminded them that leadership begins with responsibility and a commitment to institutional growth.
The DLI Director stressed the importance of teamwork in governance and urged the executives to prioritize cooperation and integration of diverse perspectives, aligning their objectives with the broader vision of the University of Lagos.
Delivering his inaugural speech, the newly elected President, Mr. Olawale Samson Soyinka, expressed gratitude to the University Management for ensuring a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. He reaffirmed his commitment to representing students’ interests and promoting academic excellence. He pledged to work collaboratively with his team to enhance the existing system, emphasizing consultation as a key strategy for effective leadership.
Wrapping up the ceremony, the General Secretary, Mr. Akin Andrew who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, assured that the new executives would uphold the values of the University. He pledged their dedication to responsible leadership, academic excellence, and effective representation.
Report: Afolabi Akinola
Photographs: Islamiat Akanni
