At the 28th convocation ceremony of Lagos State University (LASU), Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu demonstrated his administration’s commitment to educational excellence by presenting a N10 million cash award to Isioma Sybil Nwosu, the institution’s best graduating student for the 2023/2024 academic session. Nwosu, who earned a first-class degree in Biochemistry with an exceptional 4.93 CGPA, was recognized during the event held at the Buba Marwa Auditorium in Ojo.
The convocation also featured the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees on distinguished personalities, including Brigadier-General Mohammed Buba Marwa (retd.), Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and Otunba Olufemi Pedro, former Deputy Governor of Lagos State. Marwa received a Doctor of Humane Letters in recognition of his contributions to infrastructure, security, and national development, while Pedro was honored with a Doctor of Business degree for his impact in banking, entrepreneurship, and nation-building.
Represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu emphasized the critical role of education in societal progress, stating, “Education is the backbone of our society, and we must recognize its importance in addressing societal needs and human development.” He urged for academic excellence to be celebrated with the same enthusiasm as achievements in sports and entertainment, reinforcing the need to cultivate a culture that values knowledge and innovation.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s dedication to enhancing educational infrastructure and opportunities through initiatives like the Job Initiative Lagos, aimed at boosting the employability of graduates.
LASU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, praised the state government for its unwavering support, noting that 43 of the university’s 44 programs had received full accreditation. She also announced the introduction of new postgraduate programs at the Africa Centre of Excellence for Innovative and Transformative STEM Education, which now welcomes international students.
In his address, the Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Gbolahan Elias (SAN), charged the 11,917 graduating students to uphold the institution’s values as they step into the wider world. The graduating class included 8,711 first-degree holders, 2,235 postgraduate students, and 125 PhD recipients, marking another milestone in LASU’s legacy of academic distinction.