GO DE JUBILEE CONVOCA 0 SPEECH Day 0 e: ednesday, February 6, 2013 Day"Two: Thursd y, ebruary 7, 2013 Day Three: Fri ay, February 8, 2013 Delivered By Professor R. A. Bello, FAEng Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Nigeria. f DATE: Wednesday, February 6-8 , 2013 VENUE: Multi-Purpose Hall & Main Auditorium, University of Lagos , ~ _7 " THE UNIVERSITY OF FIRST CHOICE AND THE NATION'S PRIDE .,j REMARKS OF PROFESSORRAHAMON A. BELLO FAEng AT HIS INVESTITURE CEREMONY AS VICE-CHANCELLOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF -LAGOS, NIGERIA ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5,2013 IN THE MAIN AUDITORIUM, MAIN CAMPUS, AKOKA Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosu, The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of UNILAG Governing Council, Deacon (Dr.) Gamaliel O.Onosode OFR, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of University of Ibadan Governing Council, ChiefWole Olanipekun, SAN The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & Research), Professor Babajide Alo, FAS, The Registrar, Oluwarotimi O.A. Shodimu, Esq, The Bursar, Mr. L.A. Odekunle, The Acting Librarian, Dr. Okanlawon Adediji, Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Sade Ogunsola, Deans here present, Directors and Heads of Departments and Units, Vice-Chancellors and representatives of other universities, Presidents and Representatives of Professional bodies, Members of the Alumni Association, here present, Our Dear Students, Ladies and Gentlemen, Gentlemen of the Press, It is my singular honour and great pleasure to address this gathering on the occasion of this epoch-making Investiture Ceremony. Today is a historic day in the life of University of Lagos, as this is the first Investiture Ceremony of a Vice-Chancellor. Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, any person conversant with contemporary developments in our University will. agree with me that there is no better note for me to start this address than to give glory to Almighty God for his total control of my life to this moment and for his divine grace on me which has led to the event of today. I express intense appreciation to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele [onathan, GCFR, the Governing Council and the Senate of our University following my appointment as the 11'h Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos with effect from November 12, 2012. It will be recalled that following the sudden, sad and shocking death of our. io" Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe, FAS, the Governing Council appointed me to serve as the Acting Vice-Chancellor for six months from May 12 to November 12, 2012. I want to seize the opportunity of this address to thank all the stakeholders of this University for extending their unreserved cooperation to me and other members of the management team of this great University during this period. I also want to pray to God to comfort the family of our late Vice-Chancellor while praying for the repose of his soul. To say that I am grateful to staff and students, especially Senate and the Governing Council led by Deacon (Dr.) Gamaliel Onosode, OFR, will amount to expressing the very obvious. The University of Lagos is poised to achieve even higher levels of recognition and impact because of your special talents and the energy that you all devote to making this University a great institution. Iwant to assure you that I cherish your goodwill and support, which I do not take for granted. I want to pledge that in the conduct of the University' affairs, Iwill apply justice, fairness and equity. I thank my wife and family. We have been a team for years. We will not be on this stage today were it not for your commitments to keeping our family balanced, and for your steady support as I took on increasingly larger challenges. I thank you all for your love, and for seeing possibilities in me that I could not see. I also want to appreciate my professional colleagues here, Fellows of Nigerian Academy of Engineering and Nigerian Society of Engineers, my classmate (UNIFE '74), my community friends from Yewaland and all who are able to be part of this event. Today's event is a powerful personal experience which my family and friends are also honoured to be part of. This event, with all of its pomp and pageantry, offers an opportunity for us to celebrate our University and its heritage as we mark a passage in leadership; as well as renew our commitment to the values and goals that have helped this extraordinary University to thrive for half a century. As we continue to march along the path of excellence, let me highlight some of our plans to take the University of Lagos to the number one spot in Africa and a comfortable position in the league of top-class universities in the world: 1. INFRASTRUCTURE: We have commenced the process of upgrading teaching infrastructure in the University. As part of the upgrading exercise, each classroom will be rehabilitated and have interactive leT board, internet connectivity, air-conditioning and comfortable seats and all conveniences as necessary. A new 1S-floor library, befitting the current and future needs of University of Lagos is in the offing. Both the upgrading and the new library are to be funded with the TETFUNDN3billion high impact intervention. On infrastructural development, a new thrust is being put in place, due to the constraint on available land for the University. Vertical developments have to be effected from now on. Hence, all new buildings are to be designed for a minimum of 12 floors irrespective of how many floors are to be immediately constructed. This will make expansion easier in the future. 2. RESEARCH Research activities are being re-engineered to put Unilag back on the league ofleading research institutions. Senate just endorsed the establishment of a Research Development and Innovation Office. Fulltime Research Fellows are to: • coordinate multidisciplinary research proposal development • attract research grant locally and internationally • carry out intellectual property right registration as n~cessary • find end-users for research results and commence the process of fund generation through research and development of industrial parks. 3. e-ADMINISTRATION We are poised to effect immediate changes in the way things are done in the University. ICTapplication will not only be limited to teaching and research, e-administration has commenced in earnest and paper conservation in the University is bound to be down by SO percent by the time the first phase is concluded. Meetings will be conducted on e-platform and documents will be stored on virtual database as well. 4. ENDOWMENT AND DONATIONS The University has been lucky in the last while and a few remarkable projects have been endowed. These include: a. NIMASA MARITIME INSTITUTE The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has concluded plans to build a Maritime Institute which is to cost Nlbillion and to provide facilities for training human resources for the maritime industry. b. CBN ULTRA MODERN "CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE" PROJECT The Central Bank of Nigeria has commenced the construction of an ultra-modern "Centre of Excellence" in the University of Lagos. When completed, the centre will include an 8-storey Faculty Building and 7-storey Five-Star Hostel. These and others still being pursued will add to other additional teaching and research resources being promised by agencies and philanthropists. 5. STAFF AND STUDENT WELFARE This administration will respect and honour all statutory rights of all members of staff and will be fair and just in its dealings with all members of the community. Continuous dialogue with all the staff unions will be employed to resolve all possible issues that may arise. Payment of salaries and allowances will be assured as atwhen due. Accommodation challenges for both staff and students are to be ameliorated through the BOT arrangements for hostels and staff accommodation. These will be pursued to find fund shortly. Asto student unionism, processes are already in place to ensure the restoration of full student unionism at the University of Lagos, soonest. The successes recorded so far will be used as the springboard. Allstudents are enjoined to eschew violence and other negative activities to enable this transition to be smooth. CONCLUSION: At this juncture, I seek your indulgence for us to consider the popular tale of the elephant and the blind men. In that story, each man touched a different part of the animal and they all came away with widely divergent impressions of what it was that they were touching. As highlighted in that story, the elephant represents the future, which we all have different visions of. In other words, we do not know yet the true nature of the future. However, we all can act to shape that future. Now, as we did in the past, is the time to recommit ourselves to being a University that makes a major difference. I believe the way you mak a difference in the future is by focusing on both the fundamentals and th big drivers in the present. Teaching and research ar th heart of what we do at University of Lagos. Nothing el me tt rs ifw do not getthis right. Our goal at all times must be to provid > the highest quality education and lead in conducting and diss minating irnportant r earch. Through team-work, op n administration and democratic gov mane ; ware poised to do our bestto take the University to an nviabl \ h ight. Our sole aim is to make the University of Lagos to be numb r on in Africa in the next few years and one of the best 100 univer iti globally as soonas possible. We cannot do this alone; all hand must be on deck. This means that there must be asynergy among the University Management, the students, staff and other stakeholders. By stakeholders here I am referring to you all. You are our stakeholders. I seize this opportunity to urge you to join forces with us at the University through patronage of our endowment, sponsorship of intellectual programmes such as conferences, seminars, workshops and provision of scholarship to our students. On this note, I thank you for your kind attention. PROFESSOR RAHAMON A. BELLO FAEng VICE-CHANCELLOR, UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS, NIGERIA TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5,2013 THE UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS, NIGERIA ADDRESS OF THE VICE-CHANCEj:.LOR, PROFESSOR RAHAMON A. BELLO, FAEng, AT THE FIRST DAY OF THE 2012 GOLDEN JUBILEE CONVOCATION CEREMONIES HELD ON WEDNESDAY. , FEBRUARY 6, 2013 IN THE MULTI-PURPOSE HALLS, MAIN CAMPUS, AKOKA. His Excellency, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele [onathan, GCFR; The Honourable Minister of Education, Professor Ruquayyatu A. Rufai; The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN; Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, Professor Iulius Okogie; The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, University of Lagos, Deacon (Dr.) Gamaliel Onosode, OFR; Pro-Chancellors of other universities present; Members of the Diplomatic Corps; Royal Fathers here present; Vice-Chancellors of other Universities present; Principal Officers of the University of Lagos; Recipients ofEmeriti Professorship; Recipient of Distinguished Professorship; Recipients of Honorary Doctorate Degrees; Senate Members, Administrative and Technical Staff of the University of Lagos; Parents and Guardians of graduating students; Our graduating students; Gentlemen of the Press; Ladies and Gentlemen; PREAMBLE It is indeed a great pleasure for me to welcome you all to the first day of the 2011/2012 Golden Jubilee Convocation Ceremonies. This is the first Convocation Ceremony that I am addressing since my appointment as Vice-Chancellor. I want to welcome in a special way the graduating students of today, their parents and guardians. I also want to congratulate the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and R arch), Professor Babajide Alo, FAS, and Professor Duro Oni (Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services) who ar both tt nding this ceremony in their capacities as Deputy Vie -Chancellors for the first time. I also congratulate the new Deans and Directors attending the convocation ceremonies for -the first time in their various official capacities. I feel highly honoured that we are celebrating scholarship today. Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, any person conversant with contemporary developments in our University will agree with me that there is no better note for me to start my address on than to give glory to Almighty God and express intense appreciation to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele [onathan, GCFR, the Governing Council and Senate of our University for appointing me the 11thVice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos with effect from November 12,2012. It will be recalled that following the sudden, sad and shocking death of our io" Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe, FAS, the Governing Council appointed me to serve as the Acting Vice-Chancellor for six months from May 12 to November 12, 2012. During that six-month period, all stakeholders extended their unreserved cooperation to me and other members of the management team. To say that I am grateful to staff and students, especially Senate and the Governing Council, will amount to expressing the very obvious. I want to assure you that I cherish your good will and support, which I do pot take for granted. I want to pledge that in the conduct of the University affairs, Iwill apply justice, fairness and equity. STATISTICS OF GRADUATING STUDENTS Distinguished Ladies and gentlemen, by the end of today's ceremony, a total of two thousand, three hundred and fifty-three (2353) students who have successfully completed their studies would have been admitted to their various Diplomas, Certificates and Degrees in the Faculties of Arts, Education, Environment Sciences, Science, Social Sciences and the Distance Learning Institute (DU). Today, we will graduate students across the following disciplines: FACULTY Arts Education Environmental Sciences Sciences Social Sciences Distance Learning Institute Total 315 354 218 418 491 557 2353 An overall total of ninety-one graduating students finished with First Class Honours. Amazingly this year, our two best graduating students are Ibok Favour Asuquo of the Department of Accounting with Cumulative Grade Point (CGPA) of 4.89 and Miss Gabtony Flora Nkeiru of the Department of Psychology with CGPAof 4.88. At this juncture, it is important to state that we are determined to continue our tradition of producing quality first-class brains that can compete favourably with their counterparts in any part of the world. I will not fail to remind you that the vision of the University of Lagos remains' "to be a top-class institution for the pursuit of excellence in knowledge through learning, research and community service". We have vigorously maintained that tradition over the years. THE UNIVERSITY The approach of Independence in the early 1950's rekindled the desire for the establishment of universities in the country. This national desire was informed by the need to train a requisite workforce for the economic development of the nation. This led to the establishment of the University of Lagos in 1962 by an act of Parliamehtwith the mandate to: • encourage the advancement of learning and to hold out to all personswithout distinction of race, creed, sex or political conviction. provide courses of instruction and other facilities for the pursuit of learning in all its branches, and to make those facilities available on proper terms to such persons as are equipped to benefit from them. encourage, promoteand conduct research in allfields of learning and human endeavour; and undertake any other activities appropriate for a University of the highest standard. • • • Iam happy to inform today's august gathering that to an appreciable extent, the University of Lagos has met this mandate. The University began with a medical school and two Faculties: Business and Social Studies, and Law.The Faculties of Arts, Education, Engineering and Science were added in 1964. From this humble beginning and in spite of all challenges, the University of Lagos has metamorphosed into a "Centre of Excellence" having three campuses at Akoka, Idi-Araba and Yaba, with a College of Medicine, a Distance Learning Institute, a School of Postgraduate Studies and twelve (12) Faculties, namely: Arts, Basic Medical Sciences, Business Administration, Clinical Sciences, Dental Sciences, Education, Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Law, Pharmacy, Science and Social Sciences. Today, the University of Lagos is the first and best University in Nigeria and the 16th best in Africa. As at the last Convocation, the University has produced one hundred and forty seven thousand.ieight hundred and thirty- five (147, 835) graduates, many of whom are captains of industry and can be found at the helm of affairs in both the public and private sectors, locally and internationally. I want to assure you that our University will continue to march along the path of excellence and with the help of the Almighty, we are already on course to become the number one and best University in Africa. COMMISSIONING OF PROJECTS Ladies and gentlemen, it has become part of the University's culture to use Convocation Ceremonies to commission important projects. I VI' t to seize this opportunity to inform you that the Visitor to our U l' -ersity, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele [onathan, GCFR will commission important projects necessary for effective teaching and research in the University, such as the Distance Learning Institute (DLI)Classroom Block & e-Resource, the Maternity and Laboratory Centre, Human Resources Development Centre (HRDC)building, Simulation Laboratory and so" Anniversary Park among others. . On behalf of the staff and students of the University of Lagos, I express a deep appreciation to all public-spirited individuals who have supported us in the realization of these projects. CONCLUSION My dear graduating students, I congratulate you once again on the successful completion of your studies. I want you to consider yourselves fortunate to have started and completed your studies. I also want to congratulate your parents/guardians, lecturers and other members of staff who have contributed so much to your success. Asyou leave the four walls of the University, it is your responsibility to propagate the good image of the University. Identify with your alma mater and contribute your widow's mite to the development of the University. In this regard, I urge you to visit the Office of -e-, Advancement of the University, register and play an active role in the Alumni Association. Always remember your University the Preferred University the University of First Choice and the Nation's Pride. I thank you all. God bless the University of Lagos. God bless Nigeria. . Professor Rahamon A.Bello FAEng Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Nigeria. Wednesday, February 6,2013 ADDRESS OF THE VICE-CHANCELLOR, PROFESSOR RAHkMON A. BELLO, FAEng, AT THE SECOND DAYOF THE 2012 GOLDEN JUBILEE CONVOCATION CEREMONIES HELD ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2013 IN THE MULTI-PURPOSE HALLS, MAIN CAMPUS, AKOKA. His Excellency, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele [onathan, GCFRi The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SANi The Honourable Minister of Education, Professor Ruquayyatu A. Rufai; Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, Professor Inlius Okogie; The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, University of Lagos, Deacon (Dr.) Gamaliel Onosode, OFRi Pro-Chancellors of other universities present; Members of the Diplomatic Corps; Royal Fathers here present; Vice-Chancellors of other Universities present; Principal Officers of the University of Lagos; Recipients ofEmeriti Professorship; Recipient of Distinguished Professorship; Recipients of Honorary Doctorate Degrees; Senate Members, Administrative and Technical Staff of the University of Lagos; Parents and Guardians of graduating students; Our graduating students; Gentlemen of the Press; Ladies and Gentlemen; Preamble It is my great honour and pleasure to welcome you all to the second day of our Golden Jubilee Convocation Ceremonies. As graduating students in the so" year of the University, you are golden. We welcome to this event representatives of other Universities as well as friends and relations ofour graduating students. This morning, we shall present prizes, award Diplomas and Certificates and confer first degrees on students who have distinguished themselves in various academic fields during the 2011/2012 Academic Session in the Faculties of Basic Medical Sciences, Business Administration, Clinical 'Sciences, Dental Sciences, Engineering, Law, Pharmacy, Collegeof Medicine and the School of Postgraduate Studies. / Statistics of Graduating Students Today,a total of1311 graduates of this University will be admitted to first degrees while a total of3,268 will be admitted to higher degrees of this University. The breakdown of the statistics of our graduating students is as follows:- College 0/ Medicine (Faculty a/Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Clinical Sciences and Faculty 0/ Dental Sciences) -253 -467 -299 -194 -98 Faculty o/Business Administration Faculty o/Engineering Faculty ofl.aw Faculty o/Pharmacy The breakdown of those being admitted to higher degrees is as follows: Postgraduate Diploma Masters Degree Master of Philosophy Doctor of Philosophy =38 =3182 =1 =47 At the end of today's ceremony, the University of Lagos would have awarded 3,664 first degrees and 3,268 higher degrees for the first and second days of the Golden Jubilee Convocation Ceremonies This story of success eloquently attests to the hard work of our Staff and seriousness on the part. of our students. The peaceful environment under which we conduct the affairs of the University made it possible for staff and students to settle down for serious academic work, the results of which are now evident. Permit me, therefore, to thank the Governing Council, Senate, management, staff and students of this university for their cooperation, sacrifice and commitment to the philosophy of this administration, which made all these achievements possible. Ladies and gentlemen, on a historic occasion like this, it is customary to reflect on the overall performance of the institution in the last 50 years vis-a-vis its philosophy, its aspirations, and objectives within the context of our national goals. Youwill recall that this University was established partly to satisfy the expanding needs of University education but primarily to provide professional education in Law, Commerce, Science, Medicine and Technology. I will therefore seize this opportunity to reflect on our achievements, challenges and the innovative strategies adopted in surmounting these challenges. Prudent Resource Management Here at the University, we have responded positively and creatively to the challenge of scarcity and resource inadequacy. Our prudence is clear for everyone to see. Our achievement in the area of uninterrupted electricity and water supply on this campus for the past fifteen years, our maintenance of a decent housing environment, our reorganization of our health care delivery, our attention to our library, to our equipment and laboratory apparatuses, are tangible proof of prudent resource management by the University. Academic Excellence In the last 50 years, we have kept faith with the core mission of the University, which is teaching, research and community service. I herefore have no doubtthatthe accomplishments of this University In academic activities have met the expectations of the founding fathers. It is therefore not surprising that this University, which opened its doors to those seeking knowledge in 1962 with a medical school and two Faculties: Business and Social Studies and Law has now metamorphosed into a centre of excellence with three Campuses at Akoka, Idi-Araba and Yaba. Today; the University has a College of Medicine, a Distance Learning Institute, a School of Postgraduate Studies and twelve Faculties namely: Arts, Basic Medical Sciences, Business Administration, Clinical Sciences, Dental Sciences, Engineering, Education, Environmental Sciences, Law, Social Sciences, Pharmacy, and Science. Excellence of Staff and Students Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, the diligence, hardwork and seriousness on the part of staff and students of the University of Lagos have yielded tremendous dividends. Our staff and students have continued to win laurels in national and international competitions. Let me enumerate a few of those that came up in the last one or two years. Three students of our University- Miss. Adedoyin Babalola, Mr. Olalekan Akinyemi and Mr. Ordia Efosa of the Department of Architecture- emerged overall winners of the African Unions of Architects and Nigerite Young Architects Competition which took place on Friday, December 28,2012. The African Union ofArchitects Awards is part of the developmental programmes put in place to encourage students of Architecture in Africa to take part in the regeneration of Africa's urban settlements as city changers. Again, an undergraduate of the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering of this University, Miss. Machado Munirat Adebowale, emerged overall winner in the maiden edition of Budding Engineers Scientists and Technologists (BEST) Competition organized by the Federal Ministry of Education in Abuja. She took the first position with 81.33 percent among twenty- two (22) undergraduates of Engineering, Science and Technology related disciplines in Nigerian Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education. In addition, four students of the University came first in the West African Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG)competition. The competition was for all Africa Universities offering Geosciences. The team travelled to the United States of America where they participated in the America Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) Annual Convention and Exhibition at the Alexandria University in Long Beach, California, USA. In our Faculty of Engineering, ten outstanding students with cumulative Grade Point Averages ranging from 4.0 to 4.9 received scholarship awards worth fifteen thousand US Dollars ($15,000) from LG Electronics Nigeria Limited. These students will enjoy automatic placement for industrial training and job placement with the company on graduation. Ladies and gentlemen, our lecturers have also been blazing the trail in their different specializations. At the Distance Learning Institute (DLI) of the University, Mr. Sylvester Feyi Akinbuli won the Outstanding Research and Best in Session Awards at the Business Finance Research Conference recently held in Honolulu, Hawaii, the United States of America. Five hundred (500) scholars from over two hundred and fifty Universities across the world participated in the ten-day conference which took place in January 2012. Postgraduates Education Our School of Postgraduate Studies has been playing a dynamic role in Postgraduate education in Nigeria. This is evident in the significant increase in not only the number of postgraduate The School of Postgraduate Studies has consistently brought town and gown together under the platform of its annual lecture series. • Alhaji Muhammed Sa'ad Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto, delivered the 5th Annual Lecture of the School of Postgraduate Our annual Research Fair and Conference instituted in 2004 is our Studies, University of Lagos in 2009. It was entitled institutional response to the need to strengthen the intellectual Leadership, Higher Education and the Challenges of capacity of our staff to design and carry out robust research projects Developmentin Nigeria. directed towards finding solutions to societal problems. The theme • General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God of the Golden Jubilee Research Fair and Conference which took place (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, delivered the 6th from Tuesday, 6 to Thursday, November 8,2012, was: Research and--------------------------------~-------- ~U programmes but also postgraduate enrolment. Here, in the University of Lagos, we believe in producing the much-needed high level manpower, especially for younger universities, other institutions of higher learning and research institutes. We believe in playing a significant role in the area of postgraduate research with a view to building a strong base for research, which is the backbone of industrial revolution. . f The school produced its youngest PhD holder in the 2011 convocation, Miss. Olabisi Adeyemi. The 26-year old young woman had, in 2006, graduated with a first class degree in Botany at UNILAG. Her performance qualified her to enroll for the M. Phil programme, on completion of which she started the Ph.D programme in the 2007/2008 session, which she completed in record time of three years. . Again, four of our postgraduate students won the 2008 and 2009 Nigerian Universities Doctoral Theses Award. The University of Lagos topped the list of Nigerian Universities Doctoral Theses Award Scheme (NUDTAS) 2008 and 2009 Award Winners. The National Universities Commission (NUC) selected the theses of four doctoral students of University of Lagos for the Awards after a rigorous process which involved very high parameters/indices and a wide scope competitors drawn from all accredited Nigerian Universities. lecture entitl d The Nature of Light on Monday, February 15,2010. • Former Presid nt Olusegun" Obasanjo delivered a Lecture entitled Strategic Positioning of Postgraduate Education in Nigeria on Monday, February 28, 2011. • The amiable Executive Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, delivered the 8th Annual Lecture for the 2011/2012 academic session entitled Education, Research and National Development. • The Ambassador/Head of Mission, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the United States of America, Professor Adebowale Ibidapo Adefuye delivered the Distinguished Lecture of the School of Postgraduate Studies on Friday, December 14, 2012. The lecture was entitled UNILAGat 50: from Excellence to Distinction A Roadmap. E-Registration and Result Computation In line with global trends in information technology, the University now operates an e-registration for students and an e-result computation system. Our students also register for accommodation online. Research Effort World Class Universities are known and judged by the quality of their teaching, research facilities and research output. A true academic, therefore, justifies his or her position in the academia through teaching and rigorous research. Innovation for Economic Development in a Globalising Nigeria. It featured a keynote address delivered by the Former Director- General, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure and the current Chief Executive Officer of Adewoye Technology Advancement and Innovation Limited, Lagos, Professor Olusegun Oyeleke Adewoye, Fellow of both the Academy of,' Engineering and Academy ofScience. Physical Infrastructure Development In addition to constantly refurbishing and rehabilitating lecture halls, halls of residence and administrative blocks through painting, undertaking plumbing works and general maintenance, the University has continued to Source for additional physical infrastructure on its campuses at Idi-Araba, Yaba and Akoka. For example the University has been able to add the Newest Halls 1and 2 built by the Federal Government, and the Honours Halls of residence. The University has added the Julius Berger Hall,ChiefAfe Babalola Auditorium, Multipurpose Halls, New Business Administration Block, Faculty of Science Extension and a good number of buildings that will be commissioned by the Visitortomorrow. Conclusion For our graduating students, today's ceremony symbolizes a major landmark in your lives. I congratulate you and your families, guardians and friends on this laudable achievement. I urge you to be good ambassadors ofyour University. Visit the Advancement office, and register as a member of the Alurnni ASSOciationto enable you to contribute to the development of your Alma Mater. I trust you will not fail this University and our nation. YourExcellenCies,Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank you for your presence and attention. DAYTHREE•'- .~"'~. ~SAlll)IIl THE UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS, NIGERIA ADDRESS OF THE VICE-CHANCELLOR, PROFESSOR RAHAMON A. BELLO, FAEng, AT THE THIRD DAYOF THE GOLDEN JUBILEE CONVOCATION CEREMONIES HELD ON FRIDAY,FEBRUARY 8, 2013 IN THE UNIVERSITY MAIN AUDITORIUM, AKOKA. His Excellency, President and Com~an.der in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of NIgena; Dr. Goodluck EbfelLeJonastthatne,~:~abatunde Raji Fashola,The Governor 0 agos a, . ~~Z~overnor ofBauchi State, Alhaji Issa Yuguda, The Honourable Minister of Education, . Professor Ruquayyatu A. Rufai; Executive Secre.tary, '. National Universities Commis~ion, pro:e~sor J~h~~~~;s~~' of The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman 0 ounci , Lagos Deacon (Dr.) Gamaliel Onosode, OFR; Pro-Chancellors of other Universi.ties present; Members of the Governing Council ofUNILAG Members of the Diplomatic Corps; Royal Fathers here present; Vice-Chancellors of other Universities present; Principal Officers of the University of Lagos; Recipients of Honorary Doctorate D~grees; Recipients of Emeritus Professorship: 2120 Rec}pientof Distinguished Professorship; Se~ate ~embers, Administrative and Technical Staff of the University of Lagos; Parents and Guardians of our students' Gentlemen ofthe Press' ', Ladies and Gentlemen', Preamble, On behalf of ~ena~e, staff and students of the University of Lago.s the University of First Choice and the Nation's Pride-, I specially ~elcome you all to Day Three of our Golden Jubilee Convocation Ceremonies. Permit me. t? specially acknowledge the presence of the ~stee~ed Visitor to the University, President and Commander- m.-ChIefof the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria HISExcelle~cy,Dr.Goodluck, Ebele [onathan, GCFR. Sir,pleas~ a.cceptour smcere appreciation for taking time out ofyour very tight ~c~edule to graciously attend this ceremony and comrmssion la~d~ark projects within our University. These newly comm iss io n ed projects - Human Resources De~~l.opmen~ Centre (HRDC) Building, DLI e-Resource facilities, Kesmgton ~debukunola Adebutu Foundation (KAAF) Labora~ory/Mater~I~ Centre, Simulation Laboratory, Faculty of Busmess Administration and so" Anniversary Park at Lagoon Front.are ~ot o.nlyvital but crucial to effective teaching and research m this University, ~als.oa:knowledge the presence of all the Alumni of this great mstitution, all t~e distinguished guests, recipients of honorary awards and their guests, parents, guardians and well wishers of our graduating students and all stakeholders of this University In the last two days, we have conferred Certificates, Diplomas, First and Masters Degrees on six thousand, nine hundred and thirty two (6,932) worthy stugents of this University comprising three thousand, six hundred and sixty four (3,664) First Degrees and three thousand, two hundred and sixty eight (3,268) Higher Degrees including forty seven (47) Doctoral , . Degrees. Out of the First Degree graduating students, ninety one (91) passed out with First Class Degrees. It may interest you to know the two best graduating students are females - Ibok Favour Asuquo of the Department of Accounting with Cumulative Grade Point (CGPA)of 4.89 and Miss Gabtony Flora Nkeiru of the Department ofPsychology with CGPAof4.88. Today,which is the third and last day of this exercise, we shall confer Doctoral and Honorary Awards on some eminent Nigerians. UNILAG:The Past Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, at this point, Iwish to pay tribute to the memory of all those who have been associated with the growth and success of the University. I must acknowledge these men of vision such as the members of the first Governing Council of the University led by late Dr.E.N.O. Sodeinde and Management Team led by Late Dr. Eni Njoku because of the various storms and challenges they overcame to lay a strong foundation for this great citadel oflearning. A journey down memory lane shows how the University was ( able to successfully implement the July, 1984 directive of the military government that the Federal University ofTechnology, Abeokuta be merged with UNILAG.This was achieved in a record time of less than three months- October, 1984 as the University of Lagos drew upon its previous experience of 1967 when the Federal Advance Teachers' College was merged with the Faculty of Education. The Institution was renamed College of Science and Technology. Abeokuta (COSTAB), before its demerger from the University in January, 1988 to become the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. Some LandmarkAchievements When the University was set up in 1962, tertiary education in Our country was in its infancy. However, the past fifty years have seen the transformation of the University in line with local and globa! trends, in a variety of ways. Today, we are proud to say that many of the one hundred and fifty-four thousan~, seven hundred and Sixty-seven (154, 767) ,gradu~tes WhICh the University has so far produced are captams of mdustry and sit at the helm of affairs in both the public and private sectors, locally and internationally. Public Sector/Government Some of the University's graduates have contributed ~normouslyto the service'ofthis nation in the public sector and m government. TheYinclude: ~ Current Ministers such as the: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olugbenga Ashiru. Minister ofInternal Affairs, Comrade PatrickAbba Moro Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi; Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu Nigeria's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom D I Tafida , " Current Governor ofEkiti State, Dr.Kayode Fayemi; Current Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswan, Former Governor ofImo State, Ikedi Ohakim; Several former Ministers and Ambassadors First Fe,male Executive Chairperson of the Nigerian EconomIc and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Chief(Mrs.) Farida MzamberWaziri; . The Majority Leader in the Senate, Senator VIctor Ndoma Egba; - Honourable Abike Dabiri of the Federal House of Representatives; The immediate past Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigu-Okauru Private Sector Equally, in no small measure, our ~rad.uates have also ~ade their marks in the private sector as highlighted here unde~. . ~ Mr. Mutiu Sunmonu, the Chairman of Shell Compames m Nigeria; . . ~ Mr. Tunji Oyebanji, the Chairman/Managing DIrector of Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc; ~ Mr. Tony Elumelu, CON, the former Managing Director of United Bank of Africa (UBA) .. . ~ Mr. Dele Olojede, the first winner of the Puhtzer Prize m Journalism in Africa; and ~ Mr. John Momoh, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Channels Television among others. UNILAG,without any doubt, is in the forefront of initiating and promoting robust public intellectual engagements. Its academics are widely published and referenced, both locally and internationally. Many of our members of staff are indisputably pioneers in their various fields. We can not ~ut recognise Professors Osato Giwa-Osagie and Oladapo Ashlr~, both of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos who ~n 1989 successfully accomplished the birth of the first bab~ m West, East and Central Africa conceived by In-VItro of Science and Technology, Abeokuta (COSTAB), before its demerger from the University in January, 1988 to become the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. Some Landmark Achievements When the University was set up in 1962, tertiary education in Our country was in its infancy. However, the past fifty years have seen the transformation of the University in line with local and global trends, in a variety of ways. Today, we are proud to say that many of the one hundred and fifty-four thousan~, seven hundred and sixty-seven (154, 767) .gradu~tes which the University has so far produced are captams of mdustry and sit at the helm of affairs in both the pUblic and private sectors, locally and internationally. Public Sector/Government . Some of the University's graduates have contributed ~normouslyto the service'ofthis nation in the public sector and m government. TheYinc1ude: » Current Ministers such as the: M~n~sterof Foreign Affairs, Olugbenga Ashiru; MmIster ofInternal Affairs, Comrade PatrickAbba Moro Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi; Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu Nigeria's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom D I Tafida , " Current Governor ofEkiti State, Dr.Kayode Fayemi; Current Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswan, Former Governor ofIrno State, Ikedi Ohakim; Several former Ministers and Ambassadors First Fe.male Ex~cutive Chairperson of the Nigerian EconomIc and Fmancial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Chief(Mrs.) Farida MzamberWaziri; . The Majority Leader in the Senate, Senator Victor Ndoma Egba; - Honourable Abike Dabiri of the Federal House of Representatives; The immediate past Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigu-Okauru Private Sector Equally, in no small measure, our ~rad.uates have also ~ade their marks in the private sector as highlighted here unde~. . » Mr. Mutiu Sunmonu, the Chairman of Shell Compames m Nigeria; . . » Mr. Tunji Oyebanji, the Chairman/Managing Director of Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc; » Mr. Tony Elumelu, CON, the former Managing Director of United Bank of Africa (UBA) .. . » Mr. Dele Olojede, the first winner of the Puhtzer Prize m Journalism in Africa; and » Mr. John Mornoh, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Channels Television among others. UNILAG,without any doubt, is in the forefront of initiating and promoting robust public intellectual engagements. Its academics are widely published and referenced, both locally and internationally. Many of our members of staff are indisputably pioneers in their various fields. We can not ?ut recognise Professors Osato Giwa-Osagie and Oladapo Ashlr~, both of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos who ~n 1989 successfully accomplished the birth of the first bab~ m West, East and Central Africa conceived by In-Vitro FertilizatlOn (IVF). EqU3Jly,many of our members of st ff appointments, laurels and awar a are con~tantly receiving contributions to the develo d~ for their services and just a few: pment 0 the country. To mention •. J~::o:~~r~::~e~ the Fahculty of Law, Late Dr. Teslim as t e Attorney-Gen I d com1~I7's2sionderof Justice of the Federation fro:: 96:~0 an later became Chi fJ .Court ofNi . le ustIce of the Supremeigerra: ~ ~ate Professor Ayodele Oluwatuminu '. mventor and academic f' . Awo}obI, great k 0 mternatlOnal rep t I nown by the nickname "The Akoka Giant". u e a so ~~~~~:~~:~~r Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, the Former Health Professor Adebowale Adefuye NI'gerI'a' A bd' s currentm assa or to the United States of Am .others. erica among University of Lagos has the lar . the National Order of M it gAestconcentratlOn of winners of . en ward as well as th N' . Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) P' for Sci e Igenan Some of them are: nzes or SCIence and Literature. ~ Professor Vincent Olusegun Sowemimo Olunl f MFac~tltyof Engin.eering received the Nationa~Y;r~erO~rf en Award m 1998. Professor Alfred Akpovet Susu the F D Faculty f E" ' ormer ean of our Order ofoM ~tgAmeen~g,similarly, received the National en ward m 2003. Professor Tolu Odu b . h . our U" g errn, t e ninth Vice-Chancellor of the 0 ndIvesrsItyan~ cur~ent (pioneer) Vice-Chancellor of n 0 tate Untversity of t h Iec no ogy was a recipient of the National Order of Merit Award in 2007. ~ Professor Akachi Ezeigbo of our Department of English, Faculty of Arts was the 20'b7 Cc-Winner of NLNG Prize for Literature. ~ Dr. Ebenezer Meshida of our Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering was the 2008 Winner ofthe NLNGPrize for Science. I must say here that we will continue to march along the path of excellence to achieve the dreams of our Founding Fathers. It is imperative for me to highlight some of the other giant strides recorded by the University: ~ Establishment of The First University Radio Station The first University radio station in any Nigerian University, Radio UNILAG 103.1 EM. was established in November, 2004. The radio station serves the University Community and its environs, in terms of providing education, information and entertainment. In fact, this ceremony is being broadcast live by UNILAGRadio 103.1 EM. ~ Establishment of UNILAGConsult, UNILAGVentures and UNILAGEndowment Fund From the 1981/82 academic session, the University began to look for other sources of funding to supplement the dwindling annual subvention from the Federal Government. This led to the setting up of Faculty-Based Consultancy Services which metamorphosed into UNILAGConsult. The UNILAG Investment and Development Company (UNIDEV) was created in 2006, to re-position, co-ordinate and Fertilization (IVF). Equally, many of our me bers of s ff appointments, laurels and awar~: ;re con~tantly ~eceiving contributions to the developm t f :r their services and justa few: en 0 t e country. To mention ~ ~~::o:~~r Dean ~the Facultyof Law,LateDr.Teslim. Corn '. serve as the Attorney-General and mIsSIOner of Just' .f h, Ice 0 t e Federation from1966 to 1972 and later became Chi fJ .Court of Ni . le usttcs of the Supremeigena, ~ Late Professor Ayodele Oluwatuminu '. inventor and academic of . t . Awo]obI, great k In ernatIOnal reput I nown by the nickname "The Akoka Giant". e a so Late Professor Olikoye Ransome-Kuti th F Minister; and ' e ormer Health Professor Adebowale Adefuye NigerI'a's A bd' currentm ass a or to. the United States of Am . others. erica among University of Lagos has the lar . the National Order of M it gAestconcentratIOn of winners of . en ward as well as th N' . Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) P' for Sci e igenan Some of them are: nzes or SCIence and Literature. ~ Professor Vincent Olusegun Sowemimo Olunlo f MFac~ltyof Engin.eering received the National ~;r~ero~~ ent Award In 1998. Professor Alfred Akpovet Susu the F D Faculty f E" ,ormer ean of our Ord fOM ~gIneen~g, similarly, received the National ero entAwardIn2003. :~~f~s~or T?lu Odugbemi, the ninth Vice-Chancellor of the 0 ~ve~sIty an~ cur~ent (pioneer) Vice-Chancellor of n 0 tate University of Technology was a recipient of the National Order of Merit Award in 2007. ~ Professor Akachi Ezeigbo of our Department of English, Faculty of Arts was the 2007 Co-Winner of NLNG Prize for Literature. ~ Dr. Ebenezer Meshida of our Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering was the 2008 Winner ofthe NLNGPrize for Science. I must say here that we will continue to march along the path of excellence to achieve the dreams of our Founding Fathers. It is imperative for me to highlight some of the other giant strides recorded by the University: ~ Establishment ofThe First University Radio Station The first University radio station in any Nigerian University, Radio UNILAG 103.1 EM. was established in November, 2004. The radio station serves the University Community and its environs, in terms of providing education, information and entertainment. In fact, this ceremony is being broadcast live by UNILAGRadio 103.1 EM. ~ Establishment of UNILAGConsult, UNILAGVentures and UNILAGEndowment Fund From the 1981/82 academic session, the University began to look for other sources of funding to supplement the dwindling annual subvention from the Federal Government. This led to the setting up of Faculty-Based Consultancy Services which metamorphosed into UNILAGConsult. The UNILAG Investment and Development Company (UNIDEV) was created in 2006, to re-position, co-ordinate and Fertilization (IVF). Equally, many of ou ~members of st ff appointments, laurels and award: :re con~tantly ~eceiving contributions to the devel f or their services and just a few: opment 0 the country. To mention~ i~::o:~~rDean ~ the Faculty of Law, Late Dr. Teslim ' .. serve as the Attorney-General and , CommIssIOner of Justice of the Federation from1966 t 1972 and later became Chi fJ . 0Court of Ni . le usttcs of the Supremergerra, ~ Late Professor Ayodele Oluwatumi .. inventor and academic of . t ~u Awo)obI, great k III ernational reput I nownbythenickname"TheAkokaGiant". e a so ~~~~~:~~:~~r Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, the Former Health Professor Adebbwale Adefuye NI·gerI·a' Ab' s currentm assador to the United States of Am . others. enca among University of Lagos has the lar . the National Order of M it gAestcdoncentratIOn of winners of . en war as well as th N· . Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Pri for Sci e igenan Some of them are: nzes or SCIence and Literature. ~ Professor Vincent Olusegun Sowemimo Olunlo 0 of MFac~ltyof Engin.eering received the National ~rdero~~ erit Award III1998. Professor Alfred Akpovet Susu the F D Faculty f E·· ,ormer ean of our Ord fOM ~gIlleen~g, similarly, received the National er 0 entAward III2003. Prof;ues~orT?lu Odugbemi, the ninth Vice-Chancellor of our mverslty and current ( . IVlthe 0 d S .. pioneer VIce-Chancellor of n 0 tate UmversIty of Technology was a ..recrpienr of the National Order of Merit Award in 2007. ~ Professor Akachi Ezeigbo of our Department of English, Faculty of Arts was the 200' Co-Winner of NLNG Prize for Literature. ~ Dr. Ebenezer Meshida of our Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering was the 2008 Winner ofthe NLNGPrize for Science. I must say here that we will continue to march along the path of excellence to achieve the dreams of our Founding Fathers. It is imperative for me to highlight some of the other giant strides recorded by the University: ~ Establishment of The First University Radio Station The first University radio station in any Nigerian University, Radio UNILAG 103.1 EM. was established in November, 2004. The radio station serves the University Community and its environs, in terms of providing education, information and entertainment. In fact, this ceremony is being broadcast live by UNILAGRadio 103.1 EM. ~ Establishment of UNILAGConsult, UNILAGVentures and UNILAGEndowment Fund From the 1981/82 academic session, the University began to look for other sources of funding to supplement the dwindling annual subvention from the Federal Government. This led to the setting up of Faculty-Based Consultancy Services which metamorphosed into UNILAGConsult. The UNILAG Investment and Development Company (UNIDEV) was created in 2006, to re-position, co-ordinate and Fertilization (IVF). ualIy, many of our members of staff . . appointments, laurels and awards :re con~tantly ~ecelvmg contributions to the development f t~r their services and just a few: 0 e country. To mention » ~~::o:~~r Dean ~ the Faculty of Law, Late Dr. Teslim . Corn .. serve as the Attorney-General and mIsSIOner of Justi if h F ., ce 0 t e edcration from1966 to 1972 and later became Chi fJ .Court otNt . le ustics of the Supremeigena: ~ ~ate Professor Ayodele Oluwatuminu A . . mventor and academic of . t . WOJObI,great k m ernational reput I nown by the nickname "The Akoka Giant"· e a so ~~~~~:~~:~~r Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, the Former Health Professor Adebowale Adefuye NigerI'a's A bd' currentm assa or to the United States of Am . others. erica among University of Lagos has the lar . the National Order of Me lt gAestcdoncentratIOn of winners of . n war as well as th N· . LIquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Pri for Sci e igenan Some of them are: nzes or SCIence and Literature. ~ Professor Vincent Olusegun Sowemimo Olunl f MFac~ltyof Engin.eering received the Nationa~Y;r~erO~~ ent Award m 1998. Professor Alfred Akpovet Susu the F D Faculty f E·· ,ormer ean of our Orde fOM ~gmeen~g, similarly, received the National ro entAwardm2003. :~~~ues~or T?lu Odugbemi, the ninth Vice-Chancellor of mverslty and current ( . ).the 0 d S .. pioneer VIce-Chancellor of n 0 tate Umverslty of Technology was a recipient of the National Order of Merit Award in 2007. ~ Professor Akachi Ezeigbo of our Department of English, Faculty of Arts was the 200' Co-Winner of NLNG Prize for Literature. ~ Dr. Ebenezer Meshida of our Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering was the 2008 Winner ofthe NLNGPrize for Science. I must say here that we will continue to march along the path of excellence to achieve the dreams of our Founding Fathers. It is imperative for me to highlight some of the other giant strides recorded by the University: ~ Establishment of The First University Radio Station The first University radio station in any Nigerian University, Radio UNILAG 103.1 EM. was established in November, 2004. The radio station serves the University Community and its environs, in terms of providing education, information and entertainment. In fact, this ceremony is being broadcast live by UNILAGRadio 103.1 EM. ~ Establishment of UNILAGConsult, UNILAGVentures and UNILAGEndowment Fund From the 1981/82 academic session, the University began to look for other sources of funding to supplement the dwindling annual subvention from the Federal Government. This led to the setting up of Faculty-Based Consultancy Services which metamorphosed into UNILAGConsult. The UNILAG Investment and Development Company (UNIDEV) was created in 2006, to re-position, co-ordinate and Fertilization (IVF). Equally man} of our members of staff appointments, laurels and awards ;re con~tantly ~eceiving contributions to the developm t f ~r their services and justa few: en 0 t e country. To mention ~ ~~::o:~~r Dean ~ the Faculty of Law, Late Dr. Teslim . C .. serve as the Attorney-General and , ommlsslOner of Justice of the Federation from1966 t 1972 and later became Chi fJ . 0Court of'Nt . le ustice of the Supremergena: ~ Late Professor Ayodele OIuwatum· .. inventor and academic of . t I~U Awo)obI, great k m ernatlOnal rep ut 1 nown by the nickname "The Akoka Giant". e a so ~~~~~:~~:~~r Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, the Former Health Professor Adebowale Adefuye NigerI·a's A bd' currentm assa or to. the United States of Am . others. enca among University of Lagos has the Iar . the National Order of Me it gAestcdoncentratlOn of winners of . n war as well as th N· . Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Pri fi. e rgenan Some of them are: nzes or SCIence and Literature. ~ Professor Vincent OIusegun Sowemimo Olunlo f MFac~ltyof Engin.eering received the National ~;r~ero~rf ertt Award m 1998. Professor Alfred Akpovet Susu the F D Faculty f E·· ,ormer ean of our Ord fOM ~gmeen~g, similarly, received the National ero entAwardm 2003. :~~f~s~or T?lu Odugbemi, the ninth Vice-Chancellor of the 0 ~ve~sIty an~ cur~ent (pioneer) Vice-Chancellor of n 0 tate University of Technology was a recipient of the National Order of Merit Award in 2007. ~ Professor Akachi Ezeigbo of our Department of English, Faculty of Arts was the 2007 Co-Winner of NLNG Prize for Literature. ~ Dr. Ebenezer Meshida of our Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering was the 2008 Winner ofthe NLNGPrize for Science. I must say here that we will continue to march along the path of excellence to achieve the dreams of our Founding Fathers. It is imperative for me to highlight some of the other giant strides recorded by the University: ~ Establishment of The First University Radio Station The first University radio station in any Nigerian University, Radio UNILAG 103.1 F.M.was established in November, 2004. The radio station serves the University Community and its environs, in terms of providing education, information and entertainment. In fact, this ceremony is being broadcast live by UNILAGRadio 103.1 F.M. ~ Establishment of UNILAGConsult, UNILAGVentures and UNILAGEndowment Fund From the 1981/82 academic session, the University began to look for other sources of funding to supplement the dwindling annual subvention from the Federal Government. This led to the setting up of Faculty-Based Consultancy Services which metamorphosed into UNILAGConsult. The UNILAG Investment and Development Company (UNIDEV) was created in 2006, to re-position, co-ordinate and restructure income generating units of the University such as the Guest Houses and Conference Centre, UNILAG Ventures, UNILAG Press and Paper Industry, UNILAG Community Pharmacy and UNILAGBookshop. In addition, the University launched an Endowment Fund i~ Nov:mber, 1987, to cater for specific projects such as Academic Chairs, In December, 2003, the $500 million (N72 billion) endowment drive was re-launched. The fund has attracted over N2billion in the form of donations in cash and kind. Establishment of a Pre-Degree Program and Post- UTME Screening On January 5, 1998, the Pre-Degree Program 'now known as Foundation. Programme was established. The University of Lagos was In the fore-front of the initiative to conduct of the Post-UTME Screening. The positive impact of this screening speaks volume. ~ Establishment ofUNILAG Parents Forum The UNILAG Parents' Forum was established on November 2 19~9, t? enable parents and guardians of students in th~ Un~versIty to make input in the governance of the University. ThIS has gone a long way: 1. In fos~e.ring an alliance among parents, University authorities and students in order to enhance students' performance; and In creating a conducive environment for learning.2. ~ Internationalisation Our internationalisation efforts have generated over forty (40) .. partnerships and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Institutions, all over the world. This allows for staff and .nidents exchanges and collaborative research. Part of this is the establishment of the Confucius Institute of the University where Chinese language is taught at various levels, t aching Chinese language instructors and providing Chinese language teaching resources. Arrangements have just been concluded to commence a BA programme in Chinese Language on a 1-2-1 basis with our partner, Soochow University in China. Centre of Excellence in Multi-Media Technology and Cinematography (A STEP-B Project): A Centre of Excellence for Multimedia and Cinematography exits in the University of Lagos under the STEP-B, World Bank mitiative. The Centre is an evidence of the recognition of the University itself as a Centre of Excellence. UNILAG:The Future At this juncture, distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I wish to use the platform provided by this event to renew our ommitment to the values and goals that have helped this University to thrive for half a century. My aspiration as the Vice-Chancellor of this University is to vigorously and r lentlessly work to attain the better ranking of the University of Lagos. We are currently ranked number one in Nigeria and 16 th in Africa and it is our aim to take the University of Lagos to the \ first position in Africa within my tenure in office, so help me God. 2S-YearStrategic Plan (2012 2037) To achieve this, the University Governing Council has approved a 25-Year Strategic Plan (2012 2037), the implementation of which I shall commence. The plan seeks to: 1. Re-invigorate the Quality Assurance of academic programmes; 2. Enhance the information gathering capacities of both staff and students of the University through expansion of materials and access to such materials in the libraries. Currently, our libraries are adopting various measures geared towards achieving this through integrated Library Systems (ILS); Online Databases; Web-Based Resources; Digital Library Collections; e-Books and e- Journals. This we will continue to sustain. 3. Sustain and guarantee continuous improvement of the learning environment to make life more meaningful. 4. Ensure provision and maintenance of adequate teaching facilities for staff and students. 5. Improve security system to guarantee security oflife and property on campus through an efficient and collaborative security network. ~ Research There are many factors pivotal to the University's growth. The impact of research can not be over-emphasied particularly as it is vital to national and global prosperity. It is also an important indicator of the stature of a university. Machinery has been put in place to: t for multi disciplinary A Develop and access gran s . r~search in national and global choncer~t~and begin to develop d for researc resu B. Find en -~sers . research results finding. . parks for Implementmg . hts through patentmg; C. Protect intellectual property rIg ~:ke money for the University from research. D. ~ Funding f h 'or challenges; universitiesdi . one o t ema) f tThe issue offun mg is t dwith It is a known acId have to con en· .din this part of the wor t ould be able to provi e . the governmen w h that there ISn~ way the Institution requires for t. e all the nnancial resources nSl·bilities. We WIll . t tutory respo f performance of ItS sat ursue other sources 0 nonetheless redouble efforts 0 dPnations and internally h ndowment, 0 funding sue as e It ncy services, business ventures generated funds from consu a , and investments. ,t engage in public-prIvate The University will contmuhe °dlemany of our research and , ements to an ' tpartnershIp arrang we are looking up to the prrva e development needs. Here, , the drive for us to pursue sector as critical partners eh d physical development. development oriented researc es an ~ Administration d b'ectivesoftheUniversityis fthe goals an 0 ) , hThe achievement 0 , ion of various factors includmg t e dependent on a co~bmatIO t ess here that I will ensure style of administ~atIOn, Let mee~tr financial prudence, as w~n good administratIVe man~gem, ' ith members of the entIre en and cordial relatIOnshIp Wlas,op , University commumty and town. ICT application will not only be limited to teaching and research, e-adrninistration has commenced in earnest and paper conservation in the University is bound to be down by 50 •percent by the time the first phase is concluded. Meetings will be conducted on e-platforrn and documents will be stored on virtual database as well. This will be in line with the new • 'paperless administration' trend worldwide. , ~ Infrastructure With the rising population of candidates applying for admission into the University, there is a need for expansion of infrastructure to cater for this Unfortunately, we are constrained by the quantum of land available for use. Consequently, a new policy has emerged: all new buildings are to be designed for a minimum of 12 floors irrespective of how many floors are to be immediately constructed. This will make expansion easier in the future. At this juncture, we like to appreciate all our patners who have assisted us with infrastructural facilities in the past and those that are ongoing and solicit for new partners to the University to greater heights. Weacknowledge: • ChiefAfeBabalola: AfeBabalola Hall • [ulius Berger: Iulius Berger Hall • Chief Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu: KAAFMedical Laboratory and Maternity Centre Ongoing infrastructures include: • e-Resource and Research Centre by ChiefArthur Mbanefo CON,MFR • JP Clark Centre by the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency,Dr.Emmanuel Uduaghan, CON: 'ld' b Mr Biodun OlusinaMass Communication BUl m~'y . Shobanjo ofTroyka Holdings Limited Four-Floor Alumni Building by UNILAG Alumni/Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) f b the General Overseer 0Central Research Laboratory Y .' P t D K Mountain of Fire & Miracles Mmlstry, as or . . ~~~~~:'iverSary Park donated by Deacon (Dr.)Gamaliel O. Onosode OFR .' PTDFFacility for Chemical Engmeerm~. . . The Maritime Institute by the Nlgenan Mantime AdministrationandSafetyAgency(NIM~SA).. . h' h d "Centre of Excellence facilities w IC ~!~u~~:a;::fl~; academic facility and 7-floor five-star hostelfacility . h' h i I des a 15- TETFUNDhigh impact interventIOn w I~ me u storey library and rehabilitation of teachmg Infrastructure. . f the Golden Jubilee Convocation foday- t~e third da~l obe conferring Honorary Degrees, L remomes- we shh' and Distinguished Professorship on ,meritus-Professors IpS . ted on University of Lagos ten reat Nigerians who ~ave lm~ac 0 small measure to the d r tly and hav~ co?t~lbute~ m n and the world in general. d v lopment of Nlg~na m p~rt~c~:~ the recipients of today's Th r is no doubt m my mm from very unique species of H norary Awards are rare gems dl tinguished men and women. h recipients ofthe Honorary Degrees are:---------------- 1. Alhaji Sir AbubakarTafawa Balewa,KBE Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, KBE, was the only Prime Minister of an Independent Nigeria and he was one of the founding fathers of the University of Lagos in 1962. He was a great Nigerian who in fact laid the foundation stone of this institution that has become the flagship of University education in Nigeria. 2. Chief Arthur Christopher Izuegbunam Mbanefo Chief Arthur Christopher Izuegbunam Mbanefo was the Pro- Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos from 1984 to 1985. At different times, he was the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Councils of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Obafemi Awolowo University, IIe-Ife and Nigeria's Ambassador to the United Nations in New York, USA. He is a promoter of qualitative education and has contributed immensely to the growth of university education in Nigeria. He has also donated an e- Resource Research Centre to the University. 3. ChiefEmmanuel Afe Babalola Chief Emmanuel Afe Babalola was the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Lagos between 2001 and 2008. He recorded several milestones such as the establishment ofUNILAG's$500 million (N72 billion) endowment drive and the donation of the AfeBabalola Auditorium. His current efforts at the AfeBabalola University are laudable. The following six erudite and world-class scholars will be honoured with Emeritus Professorships: 1. Professor I.A.Adalemo, retired Professor of Geography and former DeputyVice-Chancellor ofthe University; f P0 Adeniyi retired Professor of Geo~raphyPro essor . .' U· ty of and former Vice-Chancellor, Federal niver s: Technology,Akure; Professor (Mrs) Yetunde Mercy Olumide, retired Professor ofMedicine; f f VO S Olunloyo NNOM, retired Professor 0Pro essor . . . , Systems Engineering; h f L Oyebande retired Professor of Geograp Y Pro essor .' d T h I gyand former Provost, College of Science an ec no 0 , Abeokuta (COSTAB). f AA S U NNOM retired Professor 0Professor ., us, , Chemical Engineering. . Ibid Obe former We shall also appoint Prof~ssor. Oye~~~1OSI(;~~~-2007) and Vice-Chancellor of the UnIVersIty 0 I ug. ity Ndufe-Alike current Vice-Chancellor of th~.F;de~Sh;~ve;:~f~ssor of this Igwo, Ebonyi State, as a IS mg University. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Conclusion . profoundt nd this address without expressmg 1 canno e . -Chancellor and Chairman of the gratitude to the outgomg pr~l D (Dr) Gamaliel Onosode. . G rning Councl, eacon . University ove I bers- Alhaji Adamu Hussaini, Mr. OFR nd other externa mem F b d Dr Bolere b d bo Dallas Mrs. Evelyn Rewane- a yan an d" nd ' ibuti pport a VIce aKetebu, for their immense contn ution, su , prayers. At this point, let me pay special homage to the leadership 1. Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, KBE Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, KBE, was the only Prime Minister of an Independent Nigeria and he was one of the founding fathers of the University of Lagos in 1962. He was a great Nigerian who in fact laid the foundation stone of this institution that has become the flagship of University education in Nigeria. 2. Chief Arthur Christopher Izuegbunam Mbanefo Chief Arthur Christopher Izuegbunam Mbanefo was the Pro- Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos from 1984 to 1985. At different times, he was the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Councils of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife and Nigeria's Ambassador to the United Nations in New York, USA. He is a promoter of qualitative education and has contributed immensely to the growth of university education in Nigeria. He has also donated an e- Resource Research Centre to the University. 3. ChiefEmmanuel Me Babalola Chief Emmanuel Afe Babalola was the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Lagos between 2001 and 2008. He recorded several milestones such as the establishment ofUNILAG' s $500 million (N72 billion) endowment drive and the donation of the Afe Babalola Auditorium. His current efforts at the Afe Babalola University are laudable. The following six erudite and world-class scholars will be honoured with Emeritus Professorships: 1. Professor I.A. Adalemo, retired Professor of Geography and former Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University; f P 0 Adeniyi retired Professor of Geo~raphy Pro essor . .' U· ty of and former Vice-Chancellor, Federal mversi Technology, Akure: Professor (Mrs) Yetunde Mercy Olumide, retired Professor of Medicine; f f V0 S Olunloyo NNOM, retired Professor 0Pro essor . . . , Systems Engineering; h f L Oyebande retired Professor of Geograp Y Pro essor .' d T h 1 gy and former Provost, College of Science an ec no 0 , Abeokuta (COSTAB). f A A S U NNOM retired Professor 0Professor ., us, , Chemical Engineering. f 0 wusi lbidapo-Obe, former We shall also appoint Pro ~ssor. ye La os (2000-2007) and Vice-Chancellor of the untversitv of 1ug . ity Ndufe-Alike current Vice-~hancellor of th~. F;deg~sh;~ve;:~f~ssor of this lgwo. Ebonyl State, as a IS m University. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Conclusion . profoundd this address without expressmg I cannot en . -Chancellor and Chairman of the gra.titud.e to the o~tgo~g pr~l Deacon (Dr.) Gamaliel Onosode Umverslty Govermng ounci b _Alhaji Adamu Hussaini, Mr. OFR and other external mern ers F band Dr Bolere Gbadebo Dallas, Mrs. Evelyn Re~an~- a yan ad~ice and Ketebu, for their immense contnbutIOn, support, prayers. At this point, let me pay special homage to the leadership acumen of our dear Pro-Chancellor, Deacon (Dr.) Gamah cl Onosode OFR, an internationally-acclaimed technocrat, a mos. inspiring leader, a most-reliable champion of excellence and God-fearing man. Under Deacon Onosode, the Council in its 4-year tenure, has been at able to improve the Internally Generated Revenue more than two-fold. The Council 'has been able to re-awaken the cbnsciousness of the role of the University to the society. In the words of Deacon Onosode, the University should be a lighthouse which should be a beaming light to the society rather the traditional ivory tower. Once again, on behalf of staff and students of this University, I wish to thank you for being here today and participating in the Golden Jubilee Convocation Ceremony of our University. It is my hope and desire that we will continue in this spirit to take UNILAG to greater height and consolidate the achievements of our founding fathers. Long live the University of Lagos. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Professor Rahamon Ade Bello, FAEng Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Akoka FRIDAY,FEBRUARY 8, 2013 ( •••••• S STIIIIII lIVE Sin FIII SIS I ITY FFI SIC ICE E ~ Pllnh cl 1)\ (ollt'J!(' ul \\('flu IIU' IIn'''', 1111"\1,,1..1, 1,11.:11' ,