By For several years, the Lagos State University have distanced itself from profiling Nigerians for possible honorary awards, things are about to change from that as it has listed prominent Nigerians which it classifies as being worthy of honouring.
During the press briefing at the Citadel of learning on Thursday, it was disclosed that the list was indeed streamlined to accommodate just three, the set standard by the University Senate.
Professor Lanre Fagbohun, the institution’s Vice Chancellor disclosed that the three were actually picked due to their activities towards humanity in Nigeria and noted that it had nothing to do with their contribution in LASU.
He listed the awardees as Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Mrs Folorunsho Alakija and Chief Adebutu Kessington. The university also instituted award to the rank of Distinguished Professor to the person of Professor Peter Akinsola Okebukola.
During the interactive session with members of the press, the VC explained that a supposed embargo placed on giving of honourary awards by the institution was a misunderstanding of the former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola.
He stated that BRF, who was the Visitor of the institution at that time warned of not engaging in listing of moneybags who might use money to buy themselves honours from the Univeristy.
Prof Fagbohun maintained that the only body that could decide on the decision of the honourary awards was the University Senate.
The Senate approved the Honourary Doctorate Degree of Business (Hon D. B) to Alhaji Dangote; Mrs Alakija was awarded with the Honourary Doctorate Degree of Arts and Humane Letters (Hon D. A. H); and Chief Adebutu with the Honourary Doctorate Degree of Science – Communication (Hon D. Sc).
He maintained that the awards were issued on merit and had nothing to the with the personalities affiliations with the University. The awards are to be given at the Convocation Ceremony.
