On Friday, January 23, 2026, the Tolu Odugbemi (Staff School) Hall, University of Lagos (UNILAG) popped with colour as the University hosted its Long Service Award and Luncheon with the Doyen, themed: Milestones & Memories: A Journey of Service. It was more than just a luncheon – it was a heartfelt celebration of loyalty, resilience, and the quiet strength of those who have carried the University of Lagos on their shoulders for decades.
The atmosphere was colorful and electric, as families, friends, and colleagues gathered to applaud men and women who had given 35 years (or more) of their lives to shaping UNILAG into the legendary institution that it is.
Welcoming the celebrants, Vice Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, spoke with warmth, saying, “This is our way of saying thank you to the people who make UNILAG, the University of First choice and the Nation’s Pride.” She noted that the years they had put in were not in vain as UNILAG is a system built on people.
Her words resonated deeply, reminding everyone that institutions are not just buildings or policies – they are living legacies of human effort.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Prof. Afolabi Lesi also emphasized in his remarks, that each celebrant would be recognized by name. It wasn’t just about numbers or years; it was about faces, stories, and journeys that deserved to be remembered.
Retirement: A New Chapter, Not the End
The ceremony wasn’t only about looking back – it was also about preparing for the future. Director of Enterprise Retail & Digital Financial Services, United Capital, Mr. Oluremi Tinuolu-Gabriel, delivered an inspiring talk on financial literacy and retirement planning.
He began with a powerful reminder, that “Retirement is not the end, it’s a new phase.”
His session was practical yet eye-opening. He urged staff to rethink common assumptions, such as “children are not retirement plans”. He noted that ponzi schemes are traps, and relying solely on government or family is risky. Instead, he encouraged discipline, cutting down expenses, smart spending, and mastering the act of saying “no” when necessary.
From budgeting techniques to risk management, he painted a clear picture: financial literacy is not about predicting the future, but preparing wisely for it.
Celebrating Service, Honouring Legacy
The highlight of the afternoon came when members of Management stepped forward to present gifts. Each handshake, each smile, and each applause carried the weight of gratitude. These were not just gifts – they were symbols of respect for decades of dedication.
As the doyen and retired staff received their honours, the hall filled with gasps and applause upon hearing their actual years (ranging from 38 to 48 years) of service. It was a reminder that service, when given wholeheartedly, leaves behind a legacy that outlives the individual.
Enjoy more pictures from the event below:
Author: Ndidi J. Odinikaeze
Photographer: Samuel Dosumu
Photo Editor: Samuel Oludare
