NANS HONOURS LASU VC, PROF. OLATUNJI-BELLO AT 45TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) on Friday, 17th April 2026, honoured the Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, Prof. Ibiyemi *Olatunji-Bello*, mni, NPOM, as one of 45 Distinguished Nigerians in commemoration of its 45th anniversary.

NANS’ recognition reflects her growing reputation as a steady, people-focused leader in Nigeria’s higher education space. Known across the LASU community for her humane and welfarist approach, Prof. *Olatunji-Bello* has earned the affectionate title “Senior Abiyamo of Nigeria” among staff and students, a nod to her maternal style of leadership.

The award ceremony, held at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja, drew a wide range of dignitaries from academia, public service, and civil society.

Presenting the award, NANS President, Comrade Olushola *Oladoja*, commended the Vice-Chancellor for what he described as her “exemplary leadership in higher education, commitment to academic excellence, and transformative contributions to university administration.” He added that her efforts in advancing research, innovation, and human capital development continue to strengthen tertiary education and inspire young Nigerians.

In her acceptance speech, the Professor of Physiology expressed appreciation to the apex student body for finding her worthy of the honour, noting that, as Vice-Chancellor, her primary preoccupation is shaping the lives of young people. She dedicated the award to the over 70,000 LASU students under her leadership, lauding them for being “obedient, diligent and exemplary in academic excellence.”

Prof. *Olatunji-Bello* was honoured alongside other notable figures, including the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Adeola *Ajayi*; former Deputy Governor of Edo State and Director-General of the National Institute of Sports, Comrade Philip *Shaibu*; the Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University, Prof. Isaac *Zeb-Obipi*; and the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Prof. Haruna *Musa*, among others.

The recognition underscores her impact not only within LASU, but across Nigeria’s educational landscape.

We are LASU, We are Great!