By Ghazali Ibrahim
Managing Director of Mutual Capital International and finance expert, Mr Afeez Ismaila, has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, Telade IV, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, on his historic appointment as the 6th Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU).
In a felicitation message made available to the BlackBox Nigeria, Ismaila described the appointment by the Governor of Lagos State as “a historic and well-deserved elevation,” expressing “profound honour, immense pride, and heartfelt joy” over the monarch’s emergence as Chancellor.
The Alara of Ilara, who also serves as the Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Chairman of the Council of Obas and Chiefs in Epe Division, and Southwest Coordinator of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), was praised for what the statement termed “rare leadership marked by resilience, tenacity, purposefulness, sustainability, and magnanimity.”
According to Ismaila, the appointment is a recognition of the monarch’s “unwavering dedication to the advancement of traditional institutions, educational development, and national progress.”
He noted that the royal father’s leadership journey reflects a commitment to sustainable development and progressive transformation, adding that his resilience in preserving the dignity of the traditional institution and his magnanimity in fostering unity have earned him widespread respect.
Describing the new role as a bridge between tradition and academia, Ismaila said, “This prestigious appointment represents a significant bridge between traditional wisdom and academic excellence. It is a testament to Your Majesty’s visionary capacity to inspire innovation, strengthen institutional values, and promote sustainable intellectual development.”
He added that the monarch’s presence as Chancellor would “enrich the university community, instill discipline and ethical leadership, and encourage the emergence of innovative ideas that will shape a brighter and more sustainable future.”
The statement further described the appointment as a moment of pride not only for the Ilara Kingdom and Epe Division but also for Lagos State and the entire traditional institution in Nigeria, noting that it reaffirms the relevance of traditional leadership in modern governance and education.
Ismaila prayed for divine wisdom, strength and longevity for the monarch as he assumes the new responsibility, concluding that the Alara’s “legacy of resilience, purposefulness, and visionary leadership continues to inspire generations.”
Oba Ogunsanwo’s appointment as LASU Chancellor marks a significant milestone in the university’s history, further strengthening the bond between traditional leadership and higher education in Lagos State.
