An Evening of Elegance and Strategic Engagement
Guests began arriving from 3:30 p.m. to an atmosphere of refined celebration—complete with red carpet reception and live saxophone serenade. The tone was clear from the outset: this was not merely a social gathering, but a purposeful convergence of minds and hearts invested in UNILAG’s future.
The exhibition gallery, which welcomed guests prior to the banquet, served as a vibrant showcase of recent institutional achievements and donor-supported projects. Attendees toured the displays with pride and curiosity, witnessing first-hand the transformative impact of their contributions.
Leadership Addresses: A Call to Shared Responsibility
The formal banquet commenced just before 5:00 p.m. with a welcome address by Chief Bayo Ojo, SAN, CON, Chairman of the UNILAG Advancement Board. He lauded the alumni community’s sustained support and reaffirmed the board’s commitment to fostering deeper engagement.
A spirited performance by the UNILAG Cultural Troupe followed, grounding the evening in the university’s cultural heritage and energizing the room with colour and rhythm.
Delivering one of the evening’s cornerstone speeches, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, CFR, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, made an impassioned appeal for greater alumni involvement.
“Government alone cannot fund education,” he said firmly, calling on UNILAG graduates to take ownership of their Alma Mater’s future and to embrace transparency and efficiency in partnership with the institution.
Vice-Chancellor’s Address: A Vision Rooted in Optimism
The high point of the evening came with the heartfelt address by Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG. With clarity and conviction, she celebrated the enduring optimism and generosity of the alumni body—qualities she described as essential to the university’s evolution.
“We are not just asking for donations,” she said.
“We are inviting you to invest in something larger than all of us: the continued excellence and impact of the university that helped shape who we are.”
Her words drew wide applause and set a tone of renewed purpose for the evening’s pledging segment.
Celebrating Contributions, Inspiring Commitment
A poignant documentary showcasing UNILAG’s recent strides in research, infrastructure, and community impact was aired, stirring reflections on the collective journey. This was followed by a passionate call for continued giving, led by Engr. Ife Oyedele, FNSE, President Worldwide of the UNILAG Alumni Association. His charge to “give back boldly” struck a chord with many, prompting warm responses from across the room.
A soulful saxophone interlude followed, blending emotion and elegance as guests reflected on their shared ties to the university.
Closing Notes and Dignitary Presence
Delivering the vote of thanks, Dr. Taiwo Ipaye, Director of the Office of Advancement, expressed deep gratitude to the alumni, stakeholders, and guests who continue to make the “UNILAG dream” not just a memory—but a living, evolving legacy.
Among the high-profile dignitaries in attendance were:
- Olorogun Sonny Kuku, Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland and former President of the UNILAG Alumni Association
- Senator Gbenga Daniel, former Governor of Ogun State
- Three Justices of the Supreme Court, underscoring the university’s far-reaching influence
A symbolic group photograph rounded off the evening, capturing the collective spirit of partnership and possibility.
Legacy in Motion
With this grand evening of connection and commitment, the University of Lagos has reaffirmed that its greatest strength lies not just in its history, but in the powerful, enduring network of people who believe in its future. As the institution charts its next chapter, the message is clear: UNILAG is advancing—together.
