In what can only be described as a fitting tribute to an educational visionary, the Buba Marwa Auditorium at Lagos State University’s main campus was filled with emotion, gratitude, and celebration as Mr. Taiwo Odumbo returned to Lagos State University International School (LASUIS) for the institution’s Valedictory Service and End of Session Party on Saturday, 2nd August, 2025.

The event marked a homecoming for the founding principal who recently concluded nine years of distinguished service, having secured a new appointment as the Education Secretary, Local Government Authority, Ikorodu, leaving behind a legacy that has transformed LASUIS from a modest educational startup into a beacon of academic excellence that now serves as a model for international schools across Nigeria.

Speaker after speaker took turns to eulogise a man whose tenure marked LASUIS’s remarkable rise from humble beginnings to a reputable citadel of excellence.

The Chairman of the LASUIS Board, Professor Ayodeji Badejo, led the ovation, pausing her welcome address to rally the entire hall to its feet.

“Before I round off my speech, please can we give a standing ovation for our incredible founding principal, Mr Taiwo Odumbo!” she said, adding that “From building an international school that became a beacon of excellence to now stepping into a prestigious government role—your journey is nothing short of inspiring! Your passion, leadership, and tireless commitment have touched countless lives, and we couldn’t be prouder.”

Equally effusive was Acting Principal, Dr Fasasi Muyideen Kola, who painted a vivid picture of the LASUIS origin story. He recounted how the school opened its doors in 2016 with just 46 students and 16 staff, operating out of 12 classrooms. Under Odumbo’s visionary leadership, LASUIS now has about 900 students and close to 60 staff even as the school recorded a 100% pass rate in its first WASSCE in 2019, setting a precedent of academic distinction that has remained unbroken to date.

He said, “…with the concerted efforts of the Pioneer principal of the school (Mr. OdumboTaiwo) and the staff of the school, rapid advancement of the school was achieved in terms of academic, social, and other aspects of development. The provision of solid foundation for all the pioneer students in the Senior Secondary Class manifested in their excellent performance in the West African School Certificate Examination (WASCE) in the year 2019.”

The most emotional moment of the event came when Mr Odumbo was presented with an Award of Excellence by the staff of the school, in recognition of “your unwavering dedication, selfless service and steadfast commitment to Lagos State University International School.” Two of the staff who spoke described him as a transformational leader, team player, and welfarist.

A visibly surprised Mr. Odumbo was joined by his wife, Alhaja Odumbo to receive the accolades amidst loud ovation from the audience, which included members of the Board of LASUIS, staff and students as well as parents.

Earlier in the programme, while presenting photo frame to some of the graduating students, Mr. Odumbo thanked the entire LASUIS team for the support they gave to him during his tenure, noting that he didn’t, LASUIS would continue to be part of his story.

From his modest start as a founding leader to his new role in government, Mr Odumbo’s legacy continues to shine as a beacon for educators, administrators and young leaders alike. Saturday’s event served not only as a farewell but as a public affirmation that great leadership leaves footprints, etched in hearts, in institutions, and in history.