The University of Lagos reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration, progress, and legacy on Saturday, June 21, 2025, as it hosted a special evening of engagement with stakeholders, partners, and alumni at a high-profile banquet organized by the Office of Advancement.
Held at the Jelili Omotola Multipurpose Hall, the event brought together men and women of timber and caliber, accomplished alumni and promoters of the University of Lagos, to celebrate their continued support while casting a bold gaze towards the future of the institution.
Guests began arriving at 3:30 p.m. to a warm welcome of red carpet elegance and live saxophone serenade, setting a refined tone for what would become an evening of heartfelt connection and strategic inspiration. As guests strolled through the exhibition area highlighting UNILAG’s recent projects, a clear message resounded: the University is not resting on its laurels; it is advancing. The exhibition area provided a platform for accountability, as it showcased partners and donors of the university with their projects beautifully displayed.
The banquet segment, which commenced at some minutes to 5:00 p.m., opened with a welcome address by the Chairman of the UNILAG Advancement Board, Chief Bayo Ojo, SAN, CON. His message of unity and continued support for the Alma Mater was soon followed by a cultural performance of the UNILAG Troupe, reminding all present of the University’s rich heritage.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, CFR delivered powerful remarks that underscored the importance of collaboration between the University and its alumni, donors, and strategic partners.
“Government alone cannot fund education”, he declared. He urged the alumni to be more intentional about their support for the institution that nurtured them and reaffirmed the commitment of the Governing Council to transparency and efficiency in resource utilisation.
In one of the evening’s defining moments, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, delivered a heartfelt address that celebrated the unwavering spirit of UNILAG alumni, their ability to see the glass as half-full, not half-empty. She commended their continued support, optimism, and belief in the UNILAG dream, noting that it is this very mindset that drives the University’s growth and transformation.
Filled with gratitude, the Vice-Chancellor appreciated the partners, stakeholders, and alumni for their commitment and generosity, while urging them to redouble their effort in uplifting their shared heritage.
“We are not just asking for donations – we are inviting you to invest in something larger than all of us: the continued excellence and impact of the university that helped shape who we are.”
The event also featured a documentary interlude showcasing institutional strides, a passionate call for pledges led by the President Worldwide of the UNILAG Alumni Association, Engr. Ife Oyedele, FNSE, and a soulful saxophone interlude that added elegance and emotion to the atmosphere.
Director of the Office of Advancement, Dr. Taiwo Ipaye, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing deep appreciation to all for making the UNILAG dream a living reality. A grand group photograph brought the evening to a symbolic close, one that captured the faces of a community united by pride, purpose, and promise.
The Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland and former President Worldwide of the UNILAG Alumni Association, Olorogun Sonny Kuku; former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Gbenga Daniel; and three Justices of the Supreme Court, were among the many dignitaries who graced the occasion with their presence and purse.
With this engagement, the University of Lagos has once again demonstrated that its strength lies not only in its history, but in the powerful network of people who believe in its future.
Report: Isaiah Kumuyi
Photograph: Ayo Oloyede
