UNILAG Renovates Law Annex in Honour of Justice George Oguntade
The Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, has unveiled a fully renovated annex lecture hall in honour of retired Supreme Court Justice George Oguntade, celebrating his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s legal profession.
The refurbished facility, now fitted with modern infrastructure and air-conditioning, offers a more dignified and conducive learning environment for both students and faculty members. The project represents a significant upgrade to one of the faculty’s core academic spaces.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Folasade Ogunsola, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Professor Afolabí Lesi, described the Faculty of Law as one of UNILAG’s flagship faculties, widely recognised for academic distinction and strong alumni engagement.
He noted that the faculty boasts one of the highest numbers of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) serving as lecturers in any law faculty across the country — a distinction reflected in the exceptional performance of its graduates. He added that UNILAG recorded the highest number of first-class graduates in the most recent Bar examinations.
Professor Lesi emphasised that the occasion was not a posthumous tribute but a celebration of a distinguished jurist in his lifetime, allowing him to witness the impact of his legacy.
The Dean of the Faculty of Law, Professor Abiola Sanni, SAN, explained that the annex lecture hall plays a central role in the academic life of students, hosting several compulsory courses. He revealed that the facility had endured years of structural challenges, including roof leaks and deterioration.
According to him, the renovation was comprehensive and professionally executed, restoring dignity to the space and significantly enhancing the teaching and learning experience.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Kazeem Alogba, urged institutions to cultivate a culture of celebrating distinguished individuals while they are still alive. He observed that recognition carries greater meaning when honourees can personally witness and appreciate it.
Justice Alogba described Justice Oguntade as “an enigma in law,” noting that his dissenting judgments continue to influence Nigeria’s jurisprudence years after they were delivered. He further stressed the importance of intellectual courage among legal practitioners and academics, highlighting that societal progress depends on a diversity of opinions.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Hon. Dayo Bush-Alebiosu, one of the donors, described Justice Oguntade as a mentor and symbol of integrity, whose guidance has left a profound mark on many lives.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Chief George Oguntade, SAN, expressed appreciation to the University and the donors for celebrating his father during his lifetime. He described the renovated hall as a lasting investment in the education of future legal professionals.
Representing the donors, Mr. Olugbenga Ajala shared a personal reflection, recalling that Justice Oguntade once wrote the attestation letter that secured his admission into the Faculty of Law. He explained that the renovation project was mobilised by alumni and friends as a deliberate gesture of gratitude and recognition for the jurist’s enduring influence.
The project was funded by a group of distinguished alumni and supporters, further demonstrating the strength of UNILAG’s alumni network and its commitment to institutional development.
The newly refurbished annex now stands not only as a modern academic facility but also as a living tribute to Justice Oguntade’s legacy — a space where future generations of lawyers will be trained under the inspiration of his example.