NEWS AND EVENTS
News:
UNILAG Faculty of Law 2007 Alumni Refurbishes Students’ Lounge
The 2007 Alumni set of the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos (UNILAG) has demonstrated love and solidarity for their alma mater with the refurbishment of the Faculty’s Students’ Lounge.
The gesture, according to the alumni members, marks a token of their appreciation to the University as a whole as well as all past and present lecturers of the Faculty of Law for the tutelage, mentoring, training and quality leadership which they received all through their sojourn as students.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the newly refurbished Students’ Lounge on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, the 2007 Law graduates took turn to share fond memories of their studentship, encounters with faculty members and life changing experiences which according to them “birthed an unconquerable bond of friendship and professional courtesies which they have fostered and leveraged over the years”.
The remarks of the alumni members were best captured in the submission of Olawale Fapounda Esq. who described their status as UNILAG Faculty of Law Alumni as “the best thing that happened to them because it epitomizes their most distinguishing feature at every level of professional engagement”.
Before cutting the tape to unveil the project, the Dean, Faculty of Law, Professor Abiola Sanni, SAN, expressed gratitude to the members of the 2007 Alumni set for their generosity, thoughtfulness and love for their alma mater.
Prof. Sanni described the newly refurbished students’ lounge as a trailblazing gesture which speaks to scholarship, value and consolidation of the faculty’s brand and reputation. He gave full assurance of proper optimization and maintenance of the facility.
In his remarks, the National President of UNILAG Alumni Worldwide; Engineer Ifeoluwa Oyedele, FNSE, appreciated the 2007 Alumni set of the Faculty of Law for refurbishing the lounge.
Engr. Oyedele who was the Guest of Honour at the ceremony described the project as a demonstration of the commitment of the 2007 UNILAG Faculty of Law Alumni towards improving the learning condition of students, a gesture which he said, must be emulated by all old students’ associations with a view to reviving the vibrant relationship that should exist between educational institutions and its alumni bodies.
Professor Gbenga Akingbeyin of the Department of Public Law performed the official cutting of the tap on behalf of the faculty to mark the formal re-opening of the lounge for the use of students of the faculty.
Before the refurbishment:
After refurbishment:
Professor Foluso Ebun Afolabi Lesi has been elected Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services) of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Greatest Akokites,
Professor Foluso Ebun Afolabi Lesi of the Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine (CMUL) has been elected Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services) of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
He is a former Provost, College of Medicine, (CMUL) and current Board Chairperson of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
Professor Lesi is also an alumnus of the College of Medicine University of Lagos. He obtained his MBBS degree in 1984 and completed his postgraduate training at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). He bagged the fellowship from the West African College of Physicians (WACP) in the Faculty of Paediatrics (FWACP [Paed]) in 1994.
On behalf of the President (Worldwide) and National Executive Council (NEC), we celebrate him on this great milestone.
Congratulations, Prof.
Funmi Falobi
National Publicity Secretary
The Adeyinka Adesope Foundation (TAAF) courtesy visit to the Office of Advancement
As part of its commitment to fostering education and youth empowerment, The Adeyinka Adesope Foundation (TAAF) paid a courtesy visit to the Office of Advancement, University of Lagos (UNILAG) on Wednesday, 26th of February, 2025. The visit was aimed at strengthening collaborations and discussing the foundation’s scholarship initiative designed to support students facing financial challenges.
A Commitment to Advancing Education
Founded by Mr. Adeyinka Adesope (GMD/CEO, Palton Morgan Holdings) and Mrs. Adenike Adesope, TAAF is dedicated to advancing lives through strategic investments in Social Welfare, Health, and Education (SHE). The foundation is particularly focused on creating educational opportunities for promising students who require financial assistance to complete their studies.
TAAF Scholarship Initiative
During the visit, TAAF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting students through a newly introduced scholarship fund for undergraduates at UNILAG. The scholarship will benefit five students in the following disciplines:
Law
Medicine
Architecture/Estate Management
Political Science
Engineering (Structural / Mechanical)
Scholarship Benefits
Each selected student will receive financial support covering essential academic expenses, including:
Tuition support of up to ₦200,000 per session
A one-time textbook grant of ₦100,000
A miscellaneous allowance of ₦30,000 per session, covering sundry costs such as registration fees
The scholarship is needs-based and targeted at students who have demonstrated academic excellence and financial need.
Discussions at the Courtesy Visit
The meeting at the Office of Advancement was headed by the Director, Dr. (Mrs.) Taiwo Folashade Ipaye, FNIM. Other attendees included Mrs. Flora Ebun Godfrey, Mr. Ogunlade Adewale, Mrs. Aregbesola Janet and Mr. Omotola Olayinka. The discussions focused on formalizing the partnership between TAAF and UNILAG, ensuring a smooth selection process for the scholarship, and exploring potential future collaborations.
A Vision for Sustainable Impact
Beyond financial aid, TAAF’s vision extends to mentorship, skill development, and long-term academic empowerment. The foundation envisions a future where students, regardless of financial limitations, can excel academically and contribute meaningfully to society.
This initiative serves as a call to action for other organizations and philanthropists to invest in the education sector, ensuring that bright and deserving students have access to quality education.
Learn More About TAAF
For more details about The Adeyinka Adesope Foundation (TAAF) and its impactful initiatives, visit: https://adeyinkaadesopefdn.org/.
Through initiatives like this, TAAF continues to demonstrate that education is the key to a brighter and more sustainable future.
CALLING ALL STUDENT INNOVATORS: AFRETEC-UNILAG Innovation-in Health Challenge 2025
Are you a Student Innovator in Nigeria with ideas on how to revolutionise healthcare delivery in Africa? Then, the AFRETEC-UNILAG Innovation-in-Health Challenge 2025 is here for you?
We are inviting multidisciplinary teams of undergraduate students from all Nigerian universities to develop sustainable and scalable health solutions which address Africa’s most pressing healthcare challenges.
FOCUS AREAS:
✅ Digital Health & Telemedicine
✅ Maternal & Child Health
✅ Health Supply Chain & Logistics
✅ AI & Data Analytics in Healthcare
✅ Infectious Disease Prevention & Control
✅ Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Management
✅ Mental Health & Well-being
✅ Affordable & Accessible Medical Devices
✅ Health Financing & Insurance Models
✅ Emergency & Disaster Response
WHAT IS IN IT FOR YOU?
🏆 The Top 10 teams will receive Proof of Concept (PoC) funding of up to Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000) each
🎓 Mentorship & Webinars with industry health experts.
🤝 Opportunities for industry linkage.
🏅 The Top 3 Innovations will receive cash awards of up to ₦4.5 million to develop their PoC into prototypes & file for Intellectual Property Filing.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested and eligible student teams should Register Here or Scan the QR code in the attached image.
📅 DEADLINE: March 21, 2025
📩 FOR INQUIRIES:
WhatsApp: +234-705-275-6965
E-mail: unilag-iptto@unilag.edu.ng
It is time to put your talent to work and make a real impact in African healthcare.
UNILAG NITHUB Gets German Development Agency’s Vote of Confidence as Key Player in Software Development in Nigeria
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) IT Hub (NITHUB), University of Lagos (UNILAG) has received a vote of confidence for its capacity to play a key role in software development in Nigeria.
The GIZ Head of Division for West Africa 2 and Madagascar, Mr. Helmut Hauschild gave this thumbs-up on Monday, February 24, 2024, when he visited UNILAG as part of his ongoing official engagements in Nigeria.
Accompanied by a delegation of senior GIZ officials, Mr. Hauschild who was received at the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, appreciated UNILAG Management for the robust working relationship between the University and GIZ, over the years.
He identified the relationship between GIZ and UNILAG as one targeted at driving digitization for Africa’s economic growth and development, a feat, which he said, UNILAG has demonstrated remarkable commitment to, through the works and outputs of NITHUB.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa who received the delegation on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, noted that “the partnership between UNILAG and GIZ has been instrumental in ensuring that NITHUB UNILAG delivers on its mandate as a rallying point for the ideation, development and hatchery of innovations”.
Prof. Atsenuwa pointed out that the Director General of NITDA, Mr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, during his visit to the centre mid last year, had also attested to the fact that NITHUB has continued to live up to its billings.
According to her, “NITHUB being one of UNILAG’s many flagship points for digital transformation, provides opportunities, facilities and ambience for not only students but as many interested individuals, to innovate, collaborate and create real time solutions”.
She noted that all activities at NITHUB and other similar AI/IT Innovation hubs/Centres in UNILAG are channeled towards equipping UNILAG Students and other users with skills for the future thereby making them fit-for-purpose while making them solution providers.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the University Management, assured of unalloyed dedication to the ideal of the partnership with GIZ and solicited continued commitment from the GIZ delegation.
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, simply shortened to GIZ, is a development agency of the German Government headquartered in Bonn and Eschborn, Germany.
The agency specializes in the field of international development cooperation and international education works. Its partnership with NITHUB UNILAG has spanned about 3 years and pertains to provision of equipment and capacity building.
Two UNILAG Dons Nominated for the Fulbright African Research Scholar Programme, 2024-2025 Academic Year
Two University of Lagos (UNILAG) lecturers have been nominated for the FY24-25 Fulbright African Research Scholarship Programme (Fulbright Visiting Scholar Programme) for the 2024-2025 academic year.
They are Dr. Cordelia Dueke-Eze of the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Dr. Olasunmbo Afolayan of the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine.
The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program (FVSP), also called the Fulbright African Research Scholar Program (ARSP), is a research fellowship award grants to Nigerian academics or professionals to conduct advanced research at U.S. institutions.
ARSP research grants offer senior faculty from select Nigerian universities or research institutes, the opportunity to conduct research in any academic discipline at a U.S. academic or research institution for a minimum of three (3) months and a maximum of nine (9) months, beginning no earlier than August 2024 and no later than March 2025. Applicants for research grants must hold a doctorate degree or equivalent terminal degree in their fields at the time of application.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, on behalf of the University Senate, Staff and Students, congratulates Dr. Dueke-Eze and Dr. Afolayan on their nominations and wishes them a successful programme.
UNILAG Appoints Prof. Anyikwa as Coordinator, PROWIBO
The Deputy Dean I of Students Affairs, and Professor at the Department of Adult Education, Faculty of Education, Blessing E. Anyikwa has been appointed Coordinator, Professor without Borders (PROWIBO).
This appointment is for a period of two (2) years with effect from Monday, February 10, 2025, to Tuesday, February 9, 2027.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, on behalf of the University Senate, Staff and Students, congratulates Prof. Blessing Anyikwa on her appointment and wishes her a successful tenure.
Blazing the Trail: UNILAG Mech. Engineering Student Builds Text-to-Speech Model
A final year student of Mechanical Engineering, University of Lagos, Saheed Azeez has successfully built an interesting text-to-speech AI model, with a unique twist – it reads out text in clear Nigerian accents. Called YarnGPT, this model accommodates all the nuances and complexities of Nigerian languages.
In this interview, Saheed Azeez speaks about his innovation, and how he was able to juggle working on it and being a student.
We understand that you invented a text-to-speech model. Please tell us about that first.
Basically, I developed a text-to-speech model. While there are numerous text-to-speech models available, what sets this one apart is its foundation on Nigerian data, making it compatible with Nigerian accents and languages. Typical text-to-speech models generate speech with European or American accents. However, the uniqueness of this model lies in its ability to produce clear, Nigerian-accented English.
Tell us about yourself, your background, what inspired this whole creation.
I am a final-year student of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Since my days in junior secondary school, I’ve always been interested in robotics and how things work. So when it was time for me to write JAMB and pick a course of study, I had the option of selecting from Mechanical, Computer, Electrical, or Systems Engineering, and because I didn’t have anybody around me who studied Mechanical Engineering, I decided to go with that. I was also interested in building robots. I had thought that Mechanical Engineering would teach me how to build robots someday.
So my journey into tech really started when I entered school as a Mechanical Engineering student. I carried out research on how to stand out in the field of Mechanical Engineering. I found out that one had to learn programming and one of the top programming languages that related better with Mechanical Engineering was Python. So in my first year, I started learning Python. I joined a programme organized by Data Science School (DSC) UNILAG in 2019. During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself learning more about Python and then I got into machine learning. From that moment onward till now, I’ve been consistently involved in building projects.
So what inspired this particular project?
I have seen many text-to-speech systems with no support for African languages and I have also seen some other text-to-speech models that work with other accents. I, therefore, just wanted to build something like that for Nigerian use. Also, I interviewed for a tech company that built something around that and I didn’t do well in the interview. That spurred me to build this.
So you decided to do your own thing?
No, not to do my own thing. I wanted to see what they did, and see what was so exciting about it. Thus one of my biggest motivations for doing my version of it was to get a call back.
Did you get called back?
Yes, I was called back but I received a better offer elsewhere.
What was the process of building this model? What tools and technologies did you use to build it?
I primarily used Python as the main technology for this project due to its numerous libraries, which greatly simplify the process. Rather than writing code from scratch, these libraries—created by various developers—serve as pre-written code that can be applied to one’s project. It saves time and effort by using the existing work of others.
My project involved two major processes. The first was gathering data. The second was to build the model. To build a machine learning model, it is essential to collect data that the model can learn from. For this project, I needed to gather text-to-speech data specifically for Nigerians and then build the model. Initially, I searched for open-source Nigerian speech-to-text datasets online but found them lacking in quantity and quality. Open-source datasets are publicly available data that people have worked on and shared online. Unfortunately, the datasets I found were not sufficient or high-quality enough for this project.
So the major chunk of data used in this project was data from movies – their audio and transcriptions.
What was the most significant challenge you faced while collecting data for this project?
I think the major issue with getting the data was learning about and using some new libraries I haven’t used before to get the data.
Another issue with the quality of the data I gathered from the libraries were not as good as I would have wanted. While it worked, the data quality could have been better because I got data from various movies. For example, the quality of movie A might be different from the quality of movie B. The way movie A is transcribed would be different from the way movie B was transcribed. Another challenge I faced was actually building the project, because I’d have to pay for Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), and well, funding in general.
There are a lot of dialects and languages in Nigeria, meaning there are a lot of accents. How does your model navigate this?
To navigate this issue, I added a lot of male and female voices to the model. One can actually check it out and choose what voices relate to one’s project better.
What potential applications do you see for your AI text to speech model, particularly in Nigeria?
Okay. One application I can think of is Audiobooks. Imagine an audiobook in Nigerian accent. Most audio books I’ve read are usually in American accent. So I feel like it has potential application in that space. Another potential application I see is in terms of education. For example, you can build a system that reads lectures to students in Nigerian-accented English. I feel like that would be easier because it will sound familiar to the student, thus making it easier to learn.
How do feel knowing you have something that can read your lectures to you?
I feel good actually. This is something I just did as a normal project. I feel happy because the project has gotten more traction than I would have anticipated.
Are there any plans to commercialize your model, or make it available for public use?
I’ve actually had a lot of questions around this but I would, at this point, prefer for it to be open source because it was something I built for myself in the comfort of my home. There are people who this app will really help, and I want it to be of help to these people.
Maybe in the future I could build a better version and, maybe it could be commercial. Nonetheless, I’m building a better version of this model already.
Why haven’t you released it yet?
I’m trying to wrap it up. I will create a short video announcing the project soon. It should be available in a week or two.
How did you juggle being a student and working on this project?
Juggling being a student and working on this project was hard, but it could have been harder. It helped that we were at home, taking online classes. I am very behind on a lot of courses, but now that I am done with the project, I can put all my attention into getting back on track and preparing for my exams.
Do you think it was worth it?
I think it has been more than worth it. I can just read up on all my courses, but if I hadn’t worked on this project, I’d have spent a large part of my life wondering why. This project has even done way better than I imagined, so I am happy I took on this project.
What are your plans after graduation? Do you plan to pursue a career in Mechanical Engineering or do you plan to just continue in this line?
Okay. So one thing I like is to just wait and see where life leads you. However, if I had to just say, I don’t see myself doing more of mechanical engineering. I feel like I’ve had a good career working with AI, and I would really like to continue in this path. Anything life brings, I’ll be fine with it.
How were you able to get funding for this project?
I spent around $150 on this project, using my savings. All the money I earned in November and December went into it. I didn’t seek out sponsors because it was just an idea I had, and I wasn’t sure if it would work. In fact, there was a version of this model that didn’t work, so it was merely another idea in my head.
I did try to get GPU sponsorship, but the process wasn’t straightforward. Eventually, I decided to build it myself without any external pressure, relying solely on my own funds. If I had investors, there would have been more pressure.
Do you think that you outdid yourself?
This is my best project by far. I don’t think I outdid myself, but this is my best project. I have not yet reached my potential. So I don’t think I’ve outdone myself. I am very proud of myself, but I still think there is more to be done.
What advice would you give to students and tech enthusiasts?
My advice is to keep building and believing in yourself. Don’t limit yourself to what you’re taught in school. In today’s world, there’s a wealth of information available online. You can achieve anything you set your mind to. Nothing is too hard for you to accomplish.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, on behalf of UNILAG Senate, staff and students, heartily congratulates Mr. Saheed Azeez on this innovation and wishes him success in his AI journey and future endeavours.
Author: Anastacia Agugua/Ndidi J. Odinikaeze
Photographer: Ayo Oloyede
Faculty of Law, University of Lagos Celebrates Honourable Justice Emem Madu on Her Appointment to the Alberta Court of Justice
The Faculty of Law, University of Lagos (UNILAG), proudly congratulates Honourable Justice Emem Madu, a distinguished alumna of the Faculty, on her well-earned appointment to the Edmonton Family and Youth Division of the Alberta Court of Justice, Canada. This remarkable achievement is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the legal profession.
A Proud Alumna of the Incomparable Faculty of Law
Justice Emem Madu obtained her LL.B degree from the esteemed Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, in 2002. Throughout her legal career, she has exemplified excellence, integrity, and a deep sense of justice, qualities that have now earned her a place on the Bench in Canada.
Her journey from the vibrant academic environment of UNILAG to the esteemed halls of justice in Canada is an inspiration to both current students and alumni. It reinforces the Faculty’s reputation for producing outstanding legal minds who excel on the global stage.
A Distinguished Legal Career
Justice Madu’s appointment to the Edmonton Family and Youth Division highlights her expertise in family and youth law—an area that requires not only legal acumen but also compassion and a deep understanding of human relationships. Her role will be crucial in shaping decisions that impact families and young individuals, ensuring justice is served with fairness and empathy.
Her contributions to the legal profession over the years have been marked by diligence and an unwavering commitment to upholding the law. This new position will allow her to continue making a meaningful impact in society, particularly in family and youth justice.
A Source of Pride for UNILAG
The Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, takes immense pride in the accomplishments of its alumni, who continue to excel and break new ground in various legal jurisdictions worldwide. Justice Madu’s success serves as an inspiration to young legal professionals and students aspiring to make a difference in the legal field.
As she embarks on this new chapter of her judicial career, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for a tenure marked by fairness, wisdom, and positive influence.
UNILAG Alumnus, Prof. Azeez Butali, Recognized for Outstanding Contributions to Research and Alumni Engagement
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) proudly celebrates Professor Azeez Butali, a distinguished alumnus whose remarkable contributions to research and his alma mater continue to make a lasting impact.
Prof. Butali, a globally recognized expert in genetics research, has dedicated his work to the study of cleft conditions in Nigerians, collaborating extensively with faculty members at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL). His commitment to advancing medical research has led to the facilitation of over seven NIH-funded grants to CMUL in the past decade, significantly enhancing research capacity and innovation within the institution.
Appointments and Research Focus
Prof. Butali currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Oral Pathology, Radiology, and Medicine at the College of Dentistry. While many focus on treating cleft palates, he is pioneering innovative approaches to prevent them. His genetic study of non-syndromic clefts in people of African descent is funded through a prestigious grant from the National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research.
Beyond his groundbreaking research, Prof. Butali also leads the African Craniofacial Anomalies Network, a collaboration between scientists in Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, and Rwanda, working together to advance research and improve healthcare outcomes for craniofacial anomalies.
Alumni Leadership and Impact
In addition to his research, Prof. Butali is deeply committed to his alma mater. He currently serves as the Chairperson of the UNILAG Dental School Alumni and plays a key role in mentoring young professionals as an Associate Lecturer at the Faculty.
The UNILAG alumni community commends Prof. Azeez Butali for his outstanding achievements, his dedication to research, and his unwavering support for the university. His work continues to inspire the next generation of scholars and healthcare professionals, solidifying his legacy as a leader in both academia and medical innovation.
Happy New Year Greetings from the IT Team, Office of Advancement, University of Lagos
Dear Esteemed Members of the University of Lagos Community,
As the curtain rises on a new year filled with promise and possibilities, the IT Team at the Office of Advancement extends our warmest greetings and best wishes to you and your loved ones.
The past year has been a testament to resilience, innovation, and collaboration. Together, we have navigated challenges, embraced opportunities, and strengthened the bonds that make the University of Lagos a beacon of excellence.
May this new year bring us success in our endeavors, growth in our pursuits, and joy in all aspects of our life. Let us continue to work hand in hand to build a future that reflects our shared aspirations and values.
Cheers to a prosperous and fulfilling 2025!
Warm regards,
The IT Team
Office of Advancement,
University of Lagos.
Celebrating excellence: Honoring Miss Naomi Olulu Ogbechi, winner of the Alhaja Wusamotu Morounranti Dosunmu prize
The Office of Advancement, University of Lagos, is delighted to celebrate Miss Naomi Olulu Ogbechi, the recipient of the Alhaja Wusamotu Morounranti Dosunmu Prize for the Best Undergraduate Student in Business Administration. This prestigious award recognizes a student who exemplifies exceptional drive, dedication, and vision, values that defined the remarkable career of Mama Gabi, a distinguished trader in textiles.
Miss Ogbechi, a shining example of academic excellence, clinched this inaugural award for her outstanding performance in the final 2023 Business Administration examinations. Her achievement underscores her brilliance and dedication to her studies, qualities that earned her an additional six prizes sponsored by various benefactors during the 54th Convocation Ceremonies of the University of Lagos, held from January 10th to 21st, 2024.
The Office of Advancement takes immense pride in celebrating this extraordinary milestone in Miss Ogbechi’s academic journey. Her success reflects the transformative power of education and the importance of recognizing and rewarding excellence. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to her and encourage all students to emulate her exemplary dedication and vision.
Let us continue to honor and support students whose achievements inspire and uplift the academic community of the University of Lagos.
CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE: Mrs. Victoria Abosede Wickliffe
The Office of Advancement, University of Lagos, warmly congratulates Mrs. Victoria Abosede Wickliffe on her well-deserved appointment as the Registrar of our great institution.
As a proud Alumnus of the University of Lagos, Mrs. Wickliffe’s exemplary journey through the ranks, culminating in her role as Deputy Registrar before this historic appointment on Friday, December 6th, 2024, reflects her unwavering dedication, professionalism, and outstanding service to the university.
On behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, and the Advancement Board, the Office of Advancement celebrates this remarkable milestone and extends our best wishes for a successful tenure.
May your leadership continue to inspire excellence and foster growth in administration within the University of Lagos community.
Congratulations once again!
6th Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele Annual Lecture Calls for Urgent Reform of Nigeria’s Abortion Laws
The University of Lagos, Office of Advancement, in partnership with the Board of Trustees of the Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele Annual Lecture in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, proudly presents the 6th Annual Lecture. This year’s lecture, themed “The Tortuous Road to Maternal Mortality Reduction in Nigeria: Avoidable Strangleholds on Liberal Abortion Laws”, will be held at the University of Lagos and will focus on critical issues affecting maternal health and mortality in Nigeria.
Understanding Maternal Mortality in Nigeria
Nigeria has one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, making maternal health an urgent national concern. Each year, thousands of Nigerian women die due to complications arising from pregnancy and childbirth, often due to inadequate healthcare access, social and economic barriers, and restrictive reproductive health policies. This year’s lecture seeks to address one of the most contentious yet critical aspects of this issue: the role of restrictive abortion laws in the fight against maternal mortality.
The Theme: “Avoidable Strangleholds on Liberal Abortion Laws”
The focus on “avoidable strangleholds on liberal abortion laws” aims to bring to light how restrictive reproductive health policies, including conservative abortion laws, impact maternal mortality. In countries with more liberal abortion policies, research has shown improved outcomes for women, with reductions in maternal deaths, improved reproductive health, and better access to safe medical procedures. By contrast, restrictive policies often result in unsafe practices, leading to avoidable complications and, tragically, fatalities.
Office of Advancement, University of Lagos and the Board of trustees of Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele Hosts the 6th Annual Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele Lecture in Obstetrics and Gynaecology
The University of Lagos, Office of Advancement, in partnership with the Board of Trustees of the Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele Annual Lecture in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, proudly presents the 6th Annual Lecture. This year’s lecture, themed “The Tortuous Road to Maternal Mortality Reduction in Nigeria: Avoidable Strangleholds on Liberal Abortion Laws”, will be held at the University of Lagos and will focus on critical issues affecting maternal health and mortality in Nigeria.
Understanding Maternal Mortality in Nigeria
Nigeria has one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, making maternal health an urgent national concern. Each year, thousands of Nigerian women die due to complications arising from pregnancy and childbirth, often due to inadequate healthcare access, social and economic barriers, and restrictive reproductive health policies. This year’s lecture seeks to address one of the most contentious yet critical aspects of this issue: the role of restrictive abortion laws in the fight against maternal mortality.
The Theme: “Avoidable Strangleholds on Liberal Abortion Laws”
The focus on “avoidable strangleholds on liberal abortion laws” aims to bring to light how restrictive reproductive health policies, including conservative abortion laws, impact maternal mortality. In countries with more liberal abortion policies, research has shown improved outcomes for women, with reductions in maternal deaths, improved reproductive health, and better access to safe medical procedures. By contrast, restrictive policies often result in unsafe practices, leading to avoidable complications and, tragically, fatalities.
About the Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele Annual Lecture
Founded to honor the legacy of Dr. Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele, a pioneer in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, this annual lecture series has become a cornerstone for discussing and addressing issues in maternal and reproductive health in Nigeria. The series has consistently drawn in healthcare professionals, policymakers, students, and advocates committed to advancing women’s health and tackling the nation’s maternal health crisis.
The 6th annual lecture promises to be an impactful session with expert speakers, insightful discussions, and an evidence-based look at the barriers and possible reforms needed to reduce maternal mortality. The event aims to spark further advocacy and educational efforts that can influence policies, inspire research, and, most importantly, save lives.
Join the Conversation
This year’s Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele lecture represents an invaluable opportunity to engage with leading voices in the field, network with like-minded individuals, and contribute to a conversation that could reshape the future of maternal health in Nigeria.
We invite all health professionals, students, policymakers, and advocates to join us as we explore solutions, share knowledge, and honor the work of Dr. Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele. Together, we can move towards a future where maternal mortality is no longer a statistic, but a concern actively addressed with effective, compassionate solutions.
Event Details: 6th Annual Abimbola Aina Omololu-Mulele Lecture in Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- Tittled: “The Tortuous Road to Maternal Mortality Reduction in Nigeria: Avoidable Strangleholds on Liberal Abortion Laws”
- Location: Old Great Hall, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Idi Araba, Lagos.
- Date & Time: Thursday 14th November, 2024.
Celebrating Dr. Taiwo Folashade Ipaye on her 60th Birthday - Happy Birthday, Director!
Happy 60th birthday, Dr. Taiwo Folashade Ipaye! 
As you celebrate this incredible milestone, we honor your exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to the University of Lagos. Your contributions through the Office of Advancement have left a lasting impact, and your wisdom continues to inspire many.
Wishing you abundant joy, good health, and more remarkable achievements in the years to come!
Here’s to a beautiful new chapter. Happy birthday! 
Celebrating Professor Adebisi Abayomi Sunday's 50th Birthday - Happy Birthday, Prof!
Happy Birthday, Professor Adebisi Sunday! On this special day, 1st of every month of September, we celebrate you, an outstanding scholar, leader, and visionary.
As the distinguished Chair occupier of Dr. Mike Adenuga (Jnr) Professorial Chair in Entrepreneurial Studies at the University of Lagos, you continue to inspire many through your dedication, wisdom, and remarkable contributions to education and entrepreneurship.
On this momentous occasion of your 50th birthday, we celebrate not just the years, but the incredible impact you’ve had on everyone around you.
Your wisdom, dedication, and unwavering passion have inspired countless lives and will continue to do so for many more years to come.
As you reach this golden milestone, may you be filled with pride for all you’ve achieved and excitement for the adventures yet to unfold.
Here’s to a lifetime of continued success, joy, and the fulfillment of all your dreams.
Happy Golden Jubilee! May this new year bring you renewed strength, boundless opportunities, and the grace to achieve more greater things.
We pray that God’s blessings continue to be upon you, guiding your path with peace, joy, and good health.
May your influence and legacy expand as you empower more lives and shape future generations.
Happy Birthday, Professor Adebisi! Your legacy of dedication, integrity, and kindness continues to inspire us all.
May you enjoy this day and many more with the love and appreciation of those whose lives you have so profoundly touched.
Warmest regards and love from the entire Office of Advancement, University of Lagos.
Celebrating Prof. Poly Emenike's Literary Achievement
Tuesday 13th of August 2024, marked a momentous occasion at the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs, where Prof. Poly Emenike, MON, Ph.D, a revered Nigerian, distinguished Great Akokite, industrialist, and philanthropist, unveiled four new books. This event celebrated not only his literary prowess but also his unwavering resilience, having rebuilt his capital on three separate occasions.
Prof. Emenike’s dedication is evident in his daily routine, beginning his writing at 5 a.m. The Event Chairman, Mr. Emeka Onwuka, praised his punctuality with the remark, “Poly’s time is Poly’s time,” signifying his impeccable time management skills which have been instrumental to his success.
As a Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and a gold medalist from the Napoleon Hill Foundation, Prof. Emenike has earned the title “Dr. Napoleon Hill of Africa.” His position as the only African Trustee on the Foundation’s board further accentuates his global influence.
Hailing from humble beginnings in Orumba, Anambra State, Prof. Emenike’s rise to prominence as an industrialist and author is a testament to his resilience and determination. His journey serves as an inspiring beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs and writers.
The four new books elevate his total publications to 17 over the past 12 years. His aim to publish three more works before turning 70 reflects his dedication to sharing knowledge, with his works reaching audiences in over 50 countries in Spanish and Portuguese translations.
Prof. Emenike’s commitment extends beyond literature; he is a devoted philanthropist with over seven endowments at the University of Lagos, amounting to more than N10 million. His active involvement on the University of Lagos Advancement Board underscores his dedication to education.
The event, chaired by Mr. Emeka Onwuka, OON, former Managing Director of Diamond Bank, saw the presence of distinguished guests including H.E. Mr. Peter Obi, Chief Damian Ogene, industry leaders, and members of the UNILAG community, all lauding Prof. Emenike’s significant contributions.
As the event concluded, Prof. Emenike conveyed his gratitude and reaffirmed his steadfast commitment to his work as both an author and philanthropist.
UNILAG Pro-Chancellor, Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, to be Conferred Honorary Doctorate Degree, July 28.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of the University of Lagos, Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, will be conferred an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Law and Administration at the 17th Convocation Ceremony of Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Nigeria on Sunday, July 28, 2024.
The conferment is in recognition of Chief Olanipekun’s extraordinary achievements in the legal profession, high intellectual profundity, and deep understanding of the applicability of the principles of law that demonstrate both a transformative impact and standard of excellence that provides, through example, inspiration to graduates of law. It is also an acknowledgement of his leadership accomplishments in university administration, public service, and volunteerism.
On behalf of the Management, Senate and entire University of Lagos community, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS congratulates Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN on this award conferment.
Harvest of Awards for UNILAG Egghead, Professor Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika
It is a harvest of awards for the current Director of the Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), University of Lagos (UNILAG) Professor Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika as she has been selected to participate in two prestigious international programmes: Trust, Accountability and Inclusion (TAI) Collaborative Programme in Mexico and Study of the U.S. Institute (SUSI) for Scholars on Journalism and Media programme in the United States of America.
Prof. Ogwezzy-Ndisika’s invitation to the TAI Collaborative programme which is scheduled for Monday, May 27 to Friday, May 31, 2024, is hinged on her scholarly works and community service activities in the area of collaborative journalism, democracy, accountability, social justice and sundry related issues. The event is funded by Trust, Accountability and Inclusion (TAI) Collaborative (a U.S. based network of funders committed to good governance) and Ford Foundation (Mexico and Central America office).
The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State selected Professor Ogwezzy-Ndisika to participate as an expert in the Study of the U.S. Institute (SUSI) for Scholars on Journalism and Media programme scheduled for Sunday, June 2 to Saturday, July 13, 2024. The programme is a short-term study hosted by Arizona State University (ASU). It includes an academic residency, leadership development, community service activities, an integrated study tour and interaction with American peers.
Professor Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika has served as a two-term acting and one-term substantive Head, Department of Mass Communication, UNILAG. A specialist In Development Communication and Public Relations & Advertising (PRAD), Professor Ogwezzy-Ndisika is a Technical Adviser for the Collaborative Media Engagement for Development Inclusivity and Accountability (CMEDIA), an initiative of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ).
The British Chevening & ADM Erasmus+ Exchange Scholar has several academic and industry laurels to her credit, having won streams of scholarships and grants for researches, fellowships and conferences; as well as bagged membership and fellowship of sectoral professional bodies. In all her accomplishments, she has consistently demonstrated enviable hard work, ingenuity and a strong commitment to being the best in assigned tasks.
On behalf of the university community, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, congratulates and wishes Prof. Ogwezzy-Ndisika continued success.
Professor Ogwezzy is the Director, Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), University of Lagos (Unilag) after serving as a two-term acting and one-term substantive Head of the Department of Mass Communication; and made history as the first alumna and first female Head of this Department both in acting and substantive capacities. Again, she has served Unilag in other administrative and professional capacities as a member and chair of several committees and boards; and on the Editorial Boards of Nigerian frontline dailies for over 10 years. Presently, she is a visiting member of The Guardian editorial board and a member of the editorial boards of journals of media and communication studies.
She is a Chevening scholar with many academic and professional laurels and the first female Professor of the Department of Mass Communication, Unilag. She holds membership and fellowship of various sectoral and professional bodies; and her career trajectory has taken her to five continents. Professor Ogwezzy holds a BA (Linguistics), University of Port-Harcourt; PGD and MSc (Mass Communication), University of Lagos; MA (Gender and Development), University of Sussex; and PhD (Communication Arts), University of Ibadan. Her areas of specialization are SBCC, Gender, Media, Public Relations and Advertising; with interest in the application of strategic communication to development, especially, the gender dimension.
Professor Ogwezzy has worked on multi-sector projects and with a number of multilateral and bilateral agencies ranging from Special Projects and Special Service Agreements (SSAs) to short term consultancies. Presently, she is the Technical Adviser to the C-MEDIA Project funded by MacArthur and administered by WSCIJ. Her key offerings are research & documentation, scoping & feasibility studies, communication strategy & action plan, message design & material development, curriculum/ modules & manuals/assessment tools development, facilitation/capacity building, knowledge management, writing of technical papers, policy & executive briefs, and public & media relations.
Her teaching and research over the past twenty years were deepened and made manifest with streams of scholarships and grants for researches, fellowships and conferences, both local and international. Prior to joining the academia, she had worked as a news reporter in a television station; client service executive in an advertising agency; and corporate communication officer in a leading financial institution in the 1990s.
UNILAG Alumnus Wins Best Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Award in Boston University
An alumnus of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), Dr. Oluwatoyin Ayile Adebule recently bagged the Dr. Thomas B. Kilgore Award for outstanding academic performance in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Boston University.
We are thrilled to announce that a distinguished alumnus of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) has been honored with the prestigious Best Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Award at Boston University. This remarkable achievement highlights the global impact and excellence of UNILAG’s educational programs, particularly in the field of dental and medical sciences.
An alumnus of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), Dr. Oluwatoyin Ayite Adebule recently bagged the Dr. Thomas B. Kilgore Award for outstanding academic performance in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Boston University, United States of America.
Graduating from the Faculty of Dentistry, CMUL in 2012 with good grades, Dr. Adebule gained admission into the Henry Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Boston University in June 2022. He completed his studies in May 16, 2024.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, on behalf of University Senate, and community congratulates Dr. Oluwatoyin Ayite Adebule on this achievement.
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