On Friday, January 16, 2026, the University of Lagos Muslim Community (UMC) hosted a Special Jumu’ah Prayer Session as part of activities to mark the 56th Convocation Ceremonies of the University.
The session which was held at the UNILAG Islamic Centre was attended by the University Management team led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola, OON, FAS; members of University muslim community and dignitaries including former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Olayide Abbas, as well as former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Osun State, Professor Muideen Opeloye.
The gathering was marked by uplifting Quranic recitations and heartfelt prayers seeking Allah’s guidance and blessings for the University. It also served as a moment to formally present the newly elected UMC Executives to the Vice-Chancellor and other members of the management team.
The UMC Vice-Chairman II, Professor Muhammad Awwal Usman welcomed the Vice-Chancellor and other guests, on behalf of the Chairman of the newly inaugurated UMC executive committee, Professor Wakeel Ishola. He expressed profound appreciation for the honour accorded the muslim community and re-affirmed the commitment of the UMC to fostering harmony, moral uprightness and spiritual growth within the University community.
Professor Usman commended the impressive turnout for the prayer session, and offered prayers for divine guidance for the University leadership as they steer the institution through another historic convocation season.
In his remarks, the Chief Imam of UMC, Professor Ismail Musa lauded the Vice-Chancellor for her visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the welfare of staff and students. He highlighted several transformative initiatives under her administration including ongoing infrastructural developments, the introduction of eco-friendly electric shuttle buses, and the expansion of academic programmes through the establishment of new faculties.
According to the Professor of Islamic Studies, these strides resonate strongly with her “Future-Ready” agenda and commitment to building an innovative and globally recognised institution.
Professor Musa offered special prayers for the success of the 56th Convocation Ceremonies and assured the University management of the muslim community’s continued support in ensuring that UNILAG remains a beacon of academic excellence, moral integrity and societal impact.
Responding, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ogunsola expressed gratitude for the steadfast support and prayers of the muslim community. She acknowledged the immense contributions of members of UMC who have continued to distinguish themselves in various leadership and service roles across the University.
The Vice-Chancellor also used the occasion to point out significant progress recorded under her administration, particularly in student development initiatives, improved accommodation, enhanced research output and strategic partnerships. She restated her administration’s commitment to building an inclusive, innovative and globally competitive institution.
The Special Jumu’ah Session concluded with collective supplications for peace, progress and divine favour upon the University of Lagos, its leadership, staff, students and the nation at large.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Samuel Dosunmu
