Words are grossly inadequate to express the atmosphere of Joy and colour across the length and breadth of the Lagos State University campus on Tuesday 23rd of April, 2024, as the institution celebrated her Amiable, Visionary, Selfless and Esteemed leader, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, as she clocked 60 years in the land of the living.
The Phenomenal leader, an astute university administrator, a reputable scholar par excellence, and a consistent achiever whose footprints dot the entire landscape of our prestigious citadel of learning – the Lagos State University. No doubt, has a penchant for transformation and rapid development of LASU.
This has resonated across the length and breadth of the University within the last few years of her visionary and purposeful leadership.
Interestingly, through her dogged commitment and tireless efforts, Lagos State University has gained more national and global visibility. LASU is now being recognized as one of the leading and fastest-growing Universities in Nigeria, even West Africa, courtesy of her towering inputs and influence that have attracted remarkable development, both in academic and infrastructure, to the arguably best tertiary point of learning in the Centre of Excellence.
This visionary Vice Chancellor facilitated three massive legacies for the university: the LASU bakery, the LASU water and the revamped LASU printing press. It is significant to mention that all of these were achieved within the first two years of her five-year single tenure. Also in her inclusivity view to administration, the vice chancellor was also kind enough to facilitate a befitting club house for members of the Lagos State University Senior Staff Club within her first two years.
It is on this joyous note, that on Sunday 28th, April 2024 , Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji Bello, alongside her husband , Mr. Tunji Bello, former Lagos State commissioner for environment and water resources, her children and senior management of Lagos State University friends , filed out for an historic thanksgiving service aimed at celebrating Gods faithfulness and his mercies at Redeemed Christian Church of God, Testimony Chapel , Zone 9 Headquarters, new Ilasan Road Lekki, Lagos.
The diamond age celebration of the academic wizard was electrified with songs of praises and worship, coupled with lots of heartwarming activities.
The special guest who join the Olatunji Bellos in celebrating the 60th Birthday of their wife, Mother, grandmother and academic scholar are: the number one woman in Lagos State , Her Excellency. Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwoolu , Dr. & Mrs. Kaadri Obafemi Hamzat – the number two man in Lagos State (Deputy Governor) who coordinated the cutting of birthday cake after the spelling of grace because he believes the grace of God is what kept her till today.
Former Deputy Governor Lagos State. Hon. Adejoke Adefulire, hosts of serving and former Honourable Commissioners, permanent secretaries, Lagos State University Board members and senior management also lit the atmosphere.
Our devout prayer is that as you enter this new year, you will find abundance of blessings, happiness, and fulfillment in both your career and your family life. Happy 60th Birthday.
As demonstrated in the preceeding pages of this magazine, and the following observations and facts, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello is a remarkable personality and surely loved by the university’s community as its VC ,her nuclear and extended family members, friends,church members, and other public figures especially in Lagos State.
On the joyous occasion of her 60th birthday Thanksgiving service, .Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), was surrounded by an overwhelming turnout of family members, friends, office colleagues, students, old schoolmates, and members of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). This grand gathering is a testament to the impact and significance of Prof. Olatunji-Bello has had in countless lives.
Kind-hearted and always ready to extend a helping hand, Prof. Olatunji-Bello embodies the true essence of compassion and empathy. Her commitment to assisting others has left an indelible mark on the lives of many individuals, both within and outside the university community. Whether it is offering guidance to troubled students or providing support to her colleagues, she has nurtured a culture of care and inclusivity at LASU.
An achiever in all realms of life, Prof. Olatunji-Bello has set a towering example for everyone around her. Her unwavering determination and tireless efforts have contributed to the growth and transformation of LASU as an institution. Under her leadership, the university has witnessed remarkable accomplishments, including improved academic standards, infrastructure development, research advancements, and industry collaborations. Prof. Olatunji-Bello’s dedication to excellence has undoubtedly propelled LASU to new heights.
Beyond her professional achievements, Prof. Olatunji-Bello is known for her unwavering faith and a deep reverence for God. Her strong spiritual foundation serves as a guiding light in both her personal and professional life, impacting those around her. She exemplifies the values of integrity, honesty, and humility, instilling them in the university community.
A family woman at heart, Prof. Olatunji-Bello strikes a remarkable balance between her professional responsibilities and her personal life. Despite the demanding nature of her role as Vice-Chancellor, she has consistently prioritized her family, nurturing strong bonds and cherishing precious moments with her loved ones. Her devotion to her family reflects her ability to lead not only with competence but also with warmth and compassion.
One can not help but notice the agelessness and beauty that radiates from Prof. Olatunji-Bello’s heart. Her positive energy, infectious smile, and genuine concern for others create an aura of warmth and approachability. She has the ability to connect with people from all walks of life, making her an inspiration to many and nurturing a sense of belonging within the LASU community.
As we celebrate this milestone in Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello’s life, let us pay tribute to her exemplary leadership, her kind-heartedness, her achievements, and her unwavering faith She serves as a role model, guiding us to strive for excellence while uplifting those around us. Prof. Olatunji-Bello’s impact transcends the boundaries of LASU, leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touches.
