Lagos State University (LASU) has once again solidified its position as the Best University in West Africa, as ranked by Greenmetrics, by welcoming a record 12,590 new students into its academic fold for the 2024/2025 session.
The historic matriculation ceremony took place at the Buba Marwa Hall on LASU’s Ojo Main Campus on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, with the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, delivering an inspiring address to the freshers. She revealed that the newly admitted students were carefully selected from over 50,000 applicants, emphasizing the competitive nature of the admission process.
“A total number of 12,590 were admitted out of over 50,000 applicants that subscribed to the University,” she announced. “Therefore, you must count yourselves very lucky to be among the very few that were admitted. It is on this note that I will advise you to face your studies so as not to lose the huge opportunity of getting a university education.”
Prof. Olatunji-Bello, known for her firm but nurturing leadership, assured the students that LASU remains committed to their welfare and safety.
“As I mentioned during your orientation program, your welfare remains our top priority. We are committed to ensuring that your learning environment remains conducive, competitive, and secure. Please be assured that your safety within and around the University campus is of utmost importance to the University Management, hence we have put in place adequate security measures. I urge you to report any suspicious activities to the University authority immediately, and we will respond promptly.”
She reiterated LASU’s zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice, indecent dressing, and other vices, urging the new students to uphold discipline and integrity throughout their academic journey.
“Be regular in attending lectures; carry out all your assignments; shun deviant behaviors; avoid indecent dressing; carefully select your friends—bad friends destroy good habits. The university has zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractices, corruption, hooliganism, and other vices that can expose you to danger. Those found culpable will be dealt with in line with our disciplinary mechanisms.”
The Vice Chancellor also emphasized the university’s firm stance against sexual and gender-based violence, highlighting the establishment of a Directorate for Response and Prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence.
“Do not keep silent when you are harassed or assaulted in any manner. If you see something, say something,” she stressed.
Addressing the new intakes, Dr. Abiodun Fatai-Abatan, the Acting Dean of Students’ Affairs, urged them to remain focused and avoid distractions that could derail their academic aspirations.
Adding to the words of encouragement, LASU alumnus and motivational speaker Ayoola Olúwaṣeun Onabokun shared his personal journey, reminding the students of the power of time, knowledge, and money in shaping their future.
“Your ultimate academic grade and what you make out of your future begins with what you do from today. Whether you will become a pride to your parents, university, society, and generation will be determined by what life you choose to live and the priorities you set for yourself from now,” Onabokun advised.
With the matriculation ceremony setting the stage for their academic journey, the new students now embark on a path that will define their future, guided by the high standards and discipline that LASU upholds as West Africa’s premier university.
