The Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, MNI, NPOM, fnli, FPhydiol(UK), FPSN, FEnv, FSPSP, has described Prof. Oluwole Banjo as, “a model of true leadership, one that leaves institutions stronger, not louder.”
Delivering the keynote address titled “A Legacy of Excellence: Celebrating the Life, Leadership, and Lasting Impact of Prof. Oluwole Banjo” at the send-forth ceremony held in his honour, organised by the College of Agriculture and Hospitality Management, COHAM.
Prof. Olatunji-Bello praised the outgoing TASFUED Vice-Chancellor, for steering the institution with humility, purpose, and quiet strength.
“His leadership was not flamboyant but firm; not noisy, but deeply effective,” Prof. Olatunji-Bello noted.
Tracing his journey from Oru-Ijebu to international recognition, she added, “He reminded us that true leadership is about leaving institutions better than you found them.”
She highlighted landmark achievements under his five-year tenure, including the Independent Power Project, upgraded laboratories and ICT infrastructure, the construction of a 1,000-seater multipurpose hall, and stronger community engagement initiatives that broadened the University’s impact.
Her remarks set the tone for a celebration that radiated admiration, gratitude, and pride as members of the University Community gathered at the TETFund 2012 Hall to honour the 5th substantive and 2nd indigenous Vice-Chancellor of TASFUED, whose tenure has been described as one of steady growth and visionary transformation.
The Dean of the College of Agriculture and Hospitality Management (COAHM), Prof. Taibat Olusola Ikotun, in her welcome address, lauded the honouree as “a leader who led with integrity, humility, and purpose,” noting the remarkable improvements in infrastructure, research, and staff welfare recorded under his administration.
In his goodwill message, the Registrar, Mr. Dapo Oke MANUPA, FCIA extolled Prof. Banjo’s innovative reforms, including the establishment of the College of Agriculture and Hospitality Management, the Directorate of Counselling and Human Development, and the introduction of over 30 new academic programmes. He also credited him with initiating the University’s 24-hour automated transcript service and promoting ICT-driven administration.
Representatives from sister institutions, including the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Olusola Babatunde Kehinde, who was represented by his Deputy Vice Chancellor, Development, echoed these sentiments, describing Banjo as “a mentor and reformer whose devotion to teaching, research, and community service will remain a reference point.”
For Prof. Oluwole Banjo, FWISON, FASN, FAIMP, dfisn, IELPN, the celebration was one of gratitude and shared accomplishment.
“I inherited a strong and healthy University; I am happy I’m leaving it stronger and healthier,” he declared.
“Together, we upheld the values that define our University excellence, innovation, integrity, and service.”
As applause filled the hall, one message resounded above all, that Professor Oluwole Banjo’s legacy is not just written in structures, but in the people and principles he inspired legacy of excellence time will not erase.
Others who gave goodwill messages at the event included Staff Union leaders, Provost of the Postgraduate College, Prof Alfred Olufemi Fatade among others.