Friday, January 19, 2024, was a day of thanksgiving and warm pleasantries as the University of Lagos rolled out the red carpet to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions and commitment of seventy-one (71) retired academic and non-teaching staff members who had dedicated 35 or more years of service to the institution.
Tagged “Long Service Awards Ceremony,” the Tolu Ogugbemi Hall (named after the 9th Vice-Chancellor of the University), provided the perfect setting for the get-together which also served as the culminating activity for the UNILAG 54th Convocation Ceremonies.
The event featured the presentation of awards to the retirees, music and cultural presentations by students of UNILAG Creative Arts Department led by Dr. Seyi Kehinde as well as a short talk on “Age is Just a Number” by Professor Rotimi Coker.
The audience was captivated by Professor Coker’s words as he stressed the importance of staying active, engaged, and purposeful in the later stages of life. The simple yet action-inspiring message emphasized that age should not limit one’s potential or aspirations. He shared personal anecdotes and motivational insights to inspire personal growth, exploration, and new experiences, after retirement.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, in a brief remark, described the event as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of dedicated service within the academic community.
While expressing gratitude for the invaluable contributions made by the retirees over the course of their careers, Professor Ogunsola urged the ‘young’ long service awardees to always come back to the institution as they would always be stakeholders.
Her words, “We thank you for the many years of meritorious service but you must know that you have your place here even after retirement. You are still part of the UNILAG family so; I want you to know that you are free to come back anytime you wish”…
Speaking passionately about the significance of long-term commitment and dedication, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Service), Professor Atsenuwa emphasized the invaluable contributions made by the retired staff during their time at the university.
Highlighting the retirees’ professional achievements, Professor Atsenuwa who is also the Chairperson of the event’s organizing committee underscored the importance of the ceremony as an appreciation token for their loyalty to the institution.
According to her, “..this ceremony is to accentuate the enduring bonds forged through years of shared experiences and collective efforts in shaping the academic and administrative landscape of the university”.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the family of the Late Professor Chikodi Nnanyelu Anigbogu, one of the Long Service Awardees whose demise occurred recently. His family was on hand to receive the award and a minute silence was held in his honour.
Retired Professor of Physiology, Professor Smith I. Jaja who spoke on behalf of the Long Service Awardees commended the University leadership for their unwavering support and commitment to the welfare of retired staff.
He pointed out the importance of recognizing the contributions of retired staff members and called for continued support and engagement with this vital segment of the University community.
The UNILAG Long Service Awards Ceremony was witnessed by the current management team of the University, former Registrar and first female to occupy the position, Mrs. C. F A. Olumide; former Deputy Vice-Chancellor, (Management Services) Professor Duro Oni; amongst many others.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Micheal Ogooluwa Joshua
