……Proceeds Go To Prof. Olatunji-Bello’s Endowment, say Organisers
In a history making event, the Centre for General Nigerian Studies (CGNS), Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo has honoured the Vice Chancellor, Prof Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello with a book written in her honour entitled, ‘The Chronicles of Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello mni, NPOM’.
The book launch held at the Radisson Blu, Ikeja, Lagos was, according to the organisers, a special occasion to mark the third year anniversary of vice-chancellor.
The Director, CGNS, Prof. Mubashiru Mohammed, in his welcome address, explained that last year, the CGNS honoured the Vice Chancellor with the award of Grand Commander of the Centre for General Nigerian Studies due to her support to the Centre and her purposeful leadership in the University.

The Director stated further that Prof. Olatunji-Bello’s achievements since assumption of office explain why she deserved to be celebrated at this time as she marks her 3rd year anniversary in office.
Disclosing that the event is at no cost to the university but an event put together by people of like minds, Prof Mohammed disclosed that the proceeds from the launching of the book will be channeled towards the endowment of the Vice Chancellor.
The Chairman of the occasion, the Special Assistant to the President on SDGs. Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire in her remarks said the book launch is a befitting tribute to her exceptional leadership because her impact on the society can never be overemphasized.

“I stand before you with immense pride and joy as we celebrate the achievement of an outstanding academic, a remarkable woman of vision and a dear friend, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, Vice-Chancellor of a great University, Lagos State University, Ojo.
“She is one with resilience, innovation and unwavering dedication to excellence,” she added.
She said: “Chronicles of your achievements are not just about one person, but about the lives you have touched, the legacy you are building and on behalf of everyone here present, especially the LASU community, I extend our deepest congratulations to you, our dear beloved Professor Olatunji-Bello on this extraordinary milestone.
“We are confident that under your continued leadership, LASU will reach even greater heights and your legacy will inspire many more generations to come.”

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Mr. Adeniran Kasali, representing the Commissioner, Mr. Tolani Sule commended the leadership style of the vice-chancellor adding that LASU gets to the level it is now because of the leadership quality of the VC.
Thanking the Governor for approving the appointment of the vice-chancellor three years ago, Sule also thanked him for the commitment to develop education in Lagos State, particularly as encapsulated in the third pillar of the Themes+ agenda.
Reviewing the book, The Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University of Education, (LASUED), Prof. Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye explained that the anthology is structured into several sections, each delineating different aspects of Professor Olatunji-Bello’s life and work.

“It encompasses a collection of essays, testimonials, and critical reflections that collectively highlight her achievements in the fields of education and public service. The book begins with a biographical overview that provides context to Professor Olatunji-Bello’s formative years, academic journey, and professional milestones.
Also, subsequent chapters delved into her innovative research in the field of Physiology, particularly as a physiologist and researcher in Nigeria.
“Finally, the contributions from colleagues and students add a personal touch, illustrating the profound impact she has made in their lives and careers,”
Prof. Lafiaji-Okuneye added that the book provides a comprehensive and insightful portrayal of Professor Ibiyemi Ibitola Olatunji-Bello’s life and career. The book offers an inspiring account of a woman who defied the odds to rise to the pinnacle of her profession. “Chronicles of Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a commitment to service. The collectanea celebrates her accomplishments, highlighting her resilience, determination, and dedication to education.

“Her story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring leaders, especially women, in academia and beyond. Readers will find inspiration in her story, which demonstrates that with vision, tenacity, and grace, obstacles are surmountable.
“The thoughtful compilation by Professor Mohammad and contributors serves as both an inspiration for future generations and a valuable resource for understanding the pivotal role of educators in society.”
She said the book is a must-read for educators, students, and anyone who is interested in the discourse of educational reform, community development, impacts of educational leadership, and the legacies of transformative figures in academia.
In her response, Prof. Olatunji-Bello, said she retuned all glory to God for making her a woman worth celebrating, someone with a value that people can see and celebrate.
“I am humbled by the array of the esteemed personalities who have also gathered today at the invitation of the Centre for General Nigerian Languages to celebrate the launch of this book -The Chronicles of Ibiyemi Ibilola OLATUNJI-BELLO – in my honour.”
Thanking the Chairman of the occasion and other dignitaries, she also praised the team, under the leadership of the Director of CGNS, Prof. Mubashiru Mohammed.” I lack words to adequately convey the extent of my happiness, my joy at the initiative to write this book and launch it on my behalf.”

Also by extension, I say thank you to our sponsors, those who have made this happen by donating generously to the success of this book launch, more especially, the chief launcher, Dr. Chris Bamidele Onalaja.
“For me, this book is a call to do more, to give more, and to serve more. I will continue to do so till my last day in office as Vice Chancellor.”
BV.