By Henry Oladele
The Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, on Thursday, celebrated its members of staff for their dedication and contributions to the institution’s growth and achievements.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, said this in her welcome address at the Staff Celebration Day of the university’s combined 29th and 30th convocation ceremonies.
Olatunji-Bello described the event as historic, noting it was the first time LASU had set aside a day during convocation to celebrate its staff.
She said the celebration was more than colourful attire, describing it as a chance to celebrate the institution’s collective identity, diversity, culture and shared commitment to excellence.
The vice-chancellor said the university’s strength was rooted in its ability to unite people from different ethnic, professional and cultural backgrounds.
She said staff members remained united by the common purpose of building a university recognised for academic excellence, innovation and service to humanity.
“Today, I see a community enriched by people from different ethnic groups, professional disciplines, cultures and experiences, all united by a common purpose,” she said.
Olatunji-Bello appreciated academic and non-teaching staff, administrators, technologists, librarians, healthcare workers, security personnel and other support staff for their contributions.
According to her, successes celebrated during the convocation season are products of the collective efforts of the university’s workforce.
She said the celebration provided an opportunity for members of staff to pause from demanding schedules, reflect on their achievements and appreciate one another.
The vice-chancellor also congratulated recipients of the 2026 LASU Gold Awards for Distinguished Service for their outstanding contributions to the university.
She said staff members nominated for the awards but not selected should also be proud of their contributions to university’s development.
“The mere fact that you were worthy of participating in the process shows the remarkable impact you have made in your service to this great university,” she said.
Olatunji-Bello commended the awards and university ceremonies committee for their efforts toward the successful organisation of the event.
The celebration featured a colourful cultural procession by various socio-cultural groups representing different communities and divisions in the university.
The procession included the Lagos Division Forum, Ogu Forum, LASU Awori Forum, Ondo State Indigene Association and Epe Division Forum.
Others are Osun State Indigene Association, Egba Staff Forum and Ikeja Division, among other socio-cultural groups.
The event also featured performances by Pee-Jay Ibeji Ineku Band, a chant performance by Akewi and an interlude of Abala Owe proverbs.
Awards were presented to the three best-performing dance groups, while the 2026 LASU Gold Awards for Distinguished Service were also presented. (NAN)
Edited by Esenvosa Izah