The Lagos State University (LASU) has entered a new phase in its institutional history with the appointment of the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, as its sixth Chancellor.
Ogunsanwo was formally invested on Tuesday at a ceremony presided over by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Alausa.
The event drew members of the university’s Governing Council, management team, and an array of traditional rulers, marking a historic moment as Ogunsanwo becomes the first monarch to occupy the prestigious office since LASU’s establishment.
Sanwo-Olu, who serves as Visitor to the university, said the appointment represents a strategic blend of tradition and modern governance, underscoring the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in contemporary society.
“This appointment is both deliberate and historic. For the first time since the establishment of Lagos State University, a traditional ruler has been entrusted with the exalted office of Chancellor. It reflects our recognition of the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in governance, social cohesion, and moral leadership,” he said
Ogunsanwo succeeds Gbolahan Elias, who completed his tenure as Chancellor. His appointment, in line with the Lagos State University Law of 2004 (as amended), is for a five-year term, renewable once.
The governor described the new Chancellor as a man of proven integrity and service, citing his previous role as Chairman of the Lagos State Inland Revenue Service and his longstanding contributions to community development.
He added that the office of the Chancellor goes beyond ceremonial duties, serving as a moral compass and custodian of the university’s core values.
Sanwo-Olu charged Ogunsanwo to uphold LASU’s traditions, promote unity among its governing bodies, and sustain its reputation as a centre of academic excellence.
He also emphasised the university’s role in producing graduates who are not only academically sound but also ethically grounded and socially responsible, urging the institution to remain a hub for policy-relevant research.
Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, described the appointment as a “fusion of intellect, heritage and higher learning,” expressing confidence in the monarch’s ability to reposition the university in line with global academic standards.
In his acceptance speech, Ogunsanwo pledged to work collaboratively with the state government, the university council, and management to strengthen the institution’s values and traditions.
The new Chancellor, who is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Business Administration at LASU, assured stakeholders of his commitment to advancing the university’s aspirations and sustaining its growth trajectory.
The appointment signals what stakeholders describe as a new chapter for LASU, one expected to be defined by stability, growth, and renewed prestige.
