…..Celebrates VC 4th Anniversary In Office
The Lagos State University’s (LASU), Centre for General Nigerian Studies (CGNS) at a ceremony to mark 4th GNS Day and to celebrate Nigeria independence anniversary showcased diverse ethnic and cultural displays with the aim to foster shared sense of belonging and nationhood in the university community and beyond.
The event held at the university on Thursday, October 2nd, 2025 was with the theme: ‘Ethnic Diversity in Nigeria, Emotional Intelligence to the Rescue’ was also to celebrate the 4th anniversary in office of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Olatunji-Bello , said the theme for this year’s GNS Day, could not have been more relevant adding that emotional intelligence, the ability to perceive, understand, and manage one’s emotions and relationships is essential in today’s multicultural society.
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According to her, it helps foster respect, empathy, and cooperation among people of different ethnic backgrounds. “Through emotional intelligence, we can build bridges where there are divides and promote peaceful coexistence in our communities and nation at large.”
Commending the organizers, Prof. Olatunji-Bello said it is not just another GNS Day, “it also marks my 4th anniversary as the 9th substantive Vice Chancellor of this great institution. I am deeply humbled to celebrate this milestone alongside a day that embodies the very essence of Nigerian heritage and unity.
“In addition, this event coincides with a significant national celebration, the 65th Independence Anniversary of our beloved country, Nigeria and as we commemorate Nigeria’s journey since independence, it is timely and symbolic that we reflect on our diverse cultures, histories, and values that make us united people. Despite our ethnic differences, we are one nation with a common destiny,” she added.
Prof. Olatunji-Bello who was optimistic that everyone present benefitted immensely from the rich cultural displays and artistic expressions put together by the students, added that the presentations were not only entertaining but also educative, helping to awaken and preserve the cultural values that are fast disappearing in the face of modernization.
“To our invited schools and students, I trust that today’s programme is both enlightening and enriching. I encourage you to take away the values and lessons they present. Culture is not merely performance; it is identity, it is history, and it is a legacy,” she said.
She appreciated the CGNS team led by the Director, Centre for General Nigerian Studies, Professor Mubashiru Olayiwola Mohammed for putting together the event and their efforts in promoting cultural awareness and national unity.
Prof. Mohammed in his remarks chronicled events from the first edition of GNS Day through to the third edition stating that this year’s celebration is about commitment, excellence, and unity.
“The Centre for General Nigerian Studies has consistently been a flagship of showcasing the ethos, values, and cultures that bind us together as Nigerians and through GNS Day, we bring together people of diverse ethnic, social, and cultural backgrounds, by fostering a shared sense of belonging and nationhood.
“To this end, we are proud to spotlight the rich heritage of the five divisions of Lagos State Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe (IBILE) alongside cultural representations from other states of the federation.
This intentional inclusion promotes unity in diversity, and it aligns perfectly with this year’s theme,” he said.
He added that; “as we all know, Nigeria is a nation blessed with over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own unique language, culture, and tradition. Our diversity, while being our greatest strength, can become a point of tension if not properly managed.
“Hence, the choice of this theme is timely and apt. We must begin to leverage emotional intelligence empathy, understanding, self-awareness, and effective communication as tools to navigate our pluralistic society and build lasting peace.”
To the vice- chancellor, he said the occasion also marks her 4th year in office, and it is important to celebrate the remarkable achievements. “Since your assumption of office, the transformation across all sectors of the University has been nothing short of historic.
“Indeed, today is not for listing achievements because the results of your leadership are already visible across the university and even beyond. The testimonies are everywhere in infrastructure, student welfare, research output, staff motivation, and policy reform.
“I must, however, state unequivocally that under your leadership, the Centre for General Nigerian Studies has continued to grow in leaps and bounds, enjoying greater recognition, institutional support, and wider student engagement
“As we begin the activities lined up for this celebration, let us all reflect on the journey so far as a Centre, as a university, and as a Nation. Let us also renew our commitment to national unity, inclusive education, and visionary leadership.”
The special guest of honour and a major sponsor of the event, Chief Kaoli Olusanya in his remarks said he was delighted of what the university has turned out to be especially in terms of ranking among universities both in Nigeria and outside the country.
He added that: “What you see here is a testament to the dynamic leadership of the vice-chancellor in bringing human resources, financial resources and for educational efficiency leading to harmonization of Lagos as witnessed at this ceremony today.
He said that the performance of the CGNS is because of the transformative power in relationship and interaction taking cue of the vice-chancellor.
Chief Olusanya congratulated the CGNS board for the rejuvenation of GNS and adding to the totality of the productivity of the university system. “It is my pleasure that I identify with this event today and I thank everyone.”
All past and present resource persons who have contributed immensely to the teaching of GNS courses in the university and members of the CGNS Board for their commitment, professionalism, and dedication towards the breakthrough and success recorded at the Centre were all honoured at the ceremony.
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