After five years at the helm, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello has concluded her tenure as the ninth substantive Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU). Her term, which began in September 2021, has left a lasting impact on the institution. A physiologist by training, Olatunji-Bello brought a meticulous approach to managing the university, similar to her work in a laboratory setting. During her tenure, she focused on enhancing academic programmes, infrastructure, and digitalization.
When Olatunji-Bello took over, LASU had 37 academic programmes awaiting accreditation. She successfully secured full accreditation for 31 programmes within her first year. By the end of her term, all 80 to 81 programmes at LASU had achieved full accreditation. Additionally, three new faculties, two new schools, and 20 new courses were introduced, significantly expanding the university's offerings. This expansion led to a substantial increase in applicants, with annual intake rising from approximately 5,000 students to 13,000.
The increased popularity of LASU is evident in its application numbers. In 2025 and 2026, the university became Nigeria's most applied-to institution, with over 85,000 applications received. This surge in interest can be attributed to the improvements made during Olatunji-Bello's tenure. The university also underwent significant digital transformation, with admissions, screening, and certificate verification processes being digitalized. In July 2022, LASU introduced Nigeria's first university Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy, a pioneering move in the country's education sector.
Infrastructure development was another key area of focus during Olatunji-Bello's tenure. Over 50 infrastructure projects were completed, including the construction of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu Library Complex, a six-storey Academic Resource Centre, and the multi-billion-naira Tunji Bello Auditorium in Epe. New hostels were also built, providing accommodation for approximately 8,000 students. These developments have transformed LASU into a more residential campus, enhancing the overall student experience.
The impact of Olatunji-Bello's efforts is reflected in LASU's rankings. The university topped the UI GreenMetric list as the Best University in West Africa for four consecutive years. In 2024, it was ranked the second-best public university in Sub-Saharan Africa by Times Higher Education. These accolades demonstrate the significant progress made by LASU under Olatunji-Bello's leadership.
At her valedictory session, Pro-Chancellor Babatunde Ogala praised Olatunji-Bello, describing her as a go-getter and a teacher of teachers. In her farewell remarks, Olatunji-Bello emphasized that while offices and titles are temporary, institutional impact endures beyond one's tenure. Her legacy at LASU will likely continue to shape the institution in the years to come.
As Olatunji-Bello steps down, her successor inherits a university that has undergone substantial transformation. With a stronger academic foundation, improved infrastructure, and a more digitalized system, LASU is now better positioned for future growth and success. The university's next Vice-Chancellor will build upon the foundations laid by Olatunji-Bello, ensuring her institutional impact endures.
Key points
- LASU achieved full accreditation for all 80-81 academic programmes under Olatunji-Bello's tenure.
- The university introduced Nigeria's first Artificial Intelligence Policy in July 2022.
- LASU became Nigeria's most applied-to university in 2025 and 2026, with over 85,000 applications received.
