Gov. Sanwo-Olu installs Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo as LASU chancellor, marking first traditional ruler appointment in university’s history
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday in Lagos, formally installed the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, as the 6th Chancellor of Lagos State University during a landmark ceremony held at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Alausa.
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The Lagos State University chancellor appointment marks the first time a traditional ruler has been selected to occupy the institution’s highest ceremonial office since its establishment, signalling a significant shift in its leadership tradition.
Oba Ogunsanwo, a former chairman of the Lagos State Inland Revenue Service, succeeds Gbolahan Elias, whose tenure has come to an end.
The investiture attracted members of the university’s Governing Council, senior management officials, and several traditional rulers, underscoring the importance of the occasion.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who serves as Visitor to the university, described the appointment as both strategic and symbolic, noting that it reflects a deliberate effort to strengthen the link between cultural heritage and modern academic governance.
He said the Lagos State University chancellor appointment demonstrates increasing recognition of traditional institutions as key partners in promoting moral guidance, social cohesion, and institutional stability.
“This appointment is both deliberate and historic,” the governor said, stressing that the role of chancellor extends beyond ceremonial duties to moral leadership within the university system.
Sanwo-Olu urged the new chancellor to uphold the institution’s dignity, promote unity, and support efforts to maintain high academic and ethical standards.
He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for LASU to thrive, while demanding accountability and excellence from all stakeholders.
Commissioner for Tertiary Education Tolani Sule described the appointment as a powerful blend of intellect, heritage, and academic leadership, expressing confidence in its positive impact on the university’s global outlook.
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In his acceptance speech, Oba Ogunsanwo pledged to work closely with the Visitor, Governing Council, and management to strengthen LASU’s traditions and advance its strategic vision.
