UNILAG celebrates achievements, rewards excellence at 55th convocation 

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has marked its 55th convocation with a celebration of academic excellence, inclusivity, and innovation.

The event held at the J.F. Ade Ajayi Auditorium, Akoka, Lagos, saw outstanding students and key stakeholders in the education sector honoured for their contributions and achievements.

Vice chancellor of the university, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, announced an exceptional feat where three students achieved the highest academic honours.

They are Mr. Damilare Haroun Adebakin and Mr. Samuel Akinade Badekale, both from the Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, who graduated with a CGPA of 5.0, sharing the title of overall best graduating students.

In the humanities, Olamide Idris Emida from the Department of Accounting, Faculty of Management Sciences, emerged as the best graduating student with an impressive CGPA of 4.95.

“This level of academic excellence underscores the commitment of our students and faculty to maintaining the highest standards,” Ogunsola remarked.

Highlighting the university’s commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), Professor Ogunsola celebrated the graduation of six visually impaired students.

These graduates, three males and three females, earned degrees across the Faculties of Education, Law, and Social Sciences, demonstrating UNILAG’s inclusive approach to education.

“Our university is inclusive in nature, and we promote equity and diversity. These graduates are a testament to our commitment to creating an environment where everyone can excel,” she added.

A total of 16,590 students will be conferred with diplomas and degrees during the ceremonies. Of these, 9,865 graduates received their first degrees and diplomas, with an impressive breakdown: 560 First Class Degrees and Distinctions (5.8 per cdnt); 3,960 Second Class Upper Degrees; 3,878 Second Class Lower Degrees; 1,164 Third Class Degrees; 79 Pass Degrees and 224 Unclassified Degrees.

Professor Ogunsola expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s support of education in Nigeria.

Represented by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the President was commended for initiatives such as the introduction of student loans through the NELFund, which has expanded access to education, and the removal of universities from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), allowing greater financial autonomy.

“We appreciate the strides you have made in repositioning the educational sector despite the obvious challenges. These initiatives have positively impacted our institution and the broader educational landscape,” Ogunsola noted.