The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS has hosted members of the institution’s Muslim community to a special Iftar gathering, using the occasion to reaffirm the University’s commitment to peace, inclusion, and mutual respect.
The event, held on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Senate Lounge, brought together members of the University management, leaders of the Muslim community and other stakeholders who gathered to break the Ramadan fast in an atmosphere of reflection and fellowship.
Speaking at the gathering, Professor Ogunsola said the holy month of Ramadan offers an important opportunity for reflection on values such as compassion, resilience, and empathy, especially in a world facing numerous social and moral challenges.
She described the University as a unique community where people from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds coexist in mutual respect, adding that such diversity remains one of the institution’s greatest strengths.
According to her, occasions like the Iftar create opportunities for members of the University community to strengthen bonds and celebrate shared humanity despite differences.
She noted that the pluralistic nature of the University requires a culture of understanding where individuals are willing to listen, engage in dialogue and work collaboratively rather than focus on disagreements.
The Vice-Chancellor highlighted key values associated with Ramadan, including patience, discipline, generosity, and empathy; stressing that these virtues are not only religious ideals but universal principles capable of guiding communities towards peace and harmony.
“These are values that should shape how we live and work together within the University,” she said, adding that sustaining a peaceful and respectful campus environment is a collective responsibility.
Professor Ogunsola also commended the Muslim community leadership for its role in promoting unity and constructive engagement within the institution.
The Chairman of the UNILAG Muslim Community (UMC), Professor Wakeel Atanda Ishola, praised the Vice-Chancellor and University management for what he described as their consistent support and inclusive leadership.
He noted that the administration’s commitment to fairness and representation has strengthened a sense of belonging among members of the Muslim community on campus.
Also speaking, the Chief Imam of the University Muslim Community, Professor Ismail Musa, offered prayers for the continued peace, stability, and progress of the University.
He expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, describing her as a compassionate and inclusive leader whose leadership style has fostered unity across the University community.
Earlier, there was a beautiful Qur’anic recitation delivered by Dr. Murtadoh Oloke, whose beautiful and clear recitation set a calm and spiritual tone for the program.
The gathering reached its peak as participants observed the call to break the fast and shared a meal together in a warm atmosphere of gratitude and quiet reflection.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Ayo Oloyede
