The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, has described the Institute of African and Diaspora Studies (IADS), UNILAG as a shining example of what research and researchers should aspire to in the University.
She stated this on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the maiden edition of the Institute’s Open Day held at the IADS Gallery, J. P. Clark building, UNILAG, Akoka. While emphasizing the importance of Africans owning Africa’s narratives, Prof. Ogunsola lauded the Institute’s pioneering research, effective grant acquisitions, and advocacy work. She urged IADS to mentor other centres across the University to emulate its exemplary model.
In his address, IADS Director, Prof. ‘Muyiwa Falaiye highlighted the Institute’s remarkable milestones since its inception in 2017, including its collaborations with renowned institutions such as Makerere University (Uganda), University of Bayreuth (Germany), University of Sussex (United Kingdom), University of Leiden (Netherlands), among others. He celebrated the contributions of international scholars hosted under Carnegie and Fulbright fellowships, as well as the institute’s research activities, advocacy programmes, and initiatives.
While pointing out the challenges of the Institute, Prof. Falaiye called for further support from strategic partners and stakeholders.
The event featured a guided tour led by Research Prof. Ayo Yussuff. The tour provided an avenue for guests to savour the Institute’s groundbreaking research, publications, and advocacy campaigns such as the GL Clinic Stand.
Guests were enthralled by a beautiful documentary on the Institute, an electrifying Afrocentric dance performance by students of the Department of Creative Arts, and an interactive session where doctoral students and stakeholders shared their feedback, and recommendations for the Institute.
Goodwill messages flowed from eminent personalities such as the 11th Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Rahaman Bello, FAEng; former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Duro Oni; immediate past Dean, Faculty of Arts, Prof. Olufunke Adeboye; former Registrar and Director, Office of Advancement, Dr. Taiwo Ipaye; Research Professor at IADS, Prof. Oloko; Chairman, Oyo State Housing Corporation, Hon. Ademola Omotosho; Provost of the Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria, and former Director/CEO of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC), Prof Olatunde Babawale; former Acting Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Adebola Ekanola; Mr. Adebowale, representative of the CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri and a doctoral student at IADS, Teniola Tabade.
The event rounded off with a vote of thanks by the Deputy Director of the Institute, Research Prof. Kayode Eesuola. Birthed during a brainstorming session at the Institute’s annual retreat held in December 2024, the Maiden IADS Open Day buttressed the commitment of the Institute to being a powerhouse for re-defining cutting edge research (by Africans for Africa and Africans) and empowering scholars worldwide. IADS, UNILAG is reputed as a cornerstone of intellectual exchange and African heritage at the University of Lagos.
Report: Ndidi J. Odinikaeze
Photographs: Joshua Michael
