LASU new VC, Badejo, calls for unity, reaffirms open-door policy

Professor Badejo giving her response

Stanley Ihedigbo

Newly appointed Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Ayodeji Olawunmi Badejo, has called for unity among members of the university community, stressing that collective effort is essential to moving the institution forward.

Badejo also reaffirmed her commitment to an open-door policy in the administration of the university, saying staff, students and other stakeholders would have access to her, provided their engagements were geared towards the progress of LASU.

The Vice Chancellor made the remarks during a special prayer session organised in her honour by the Lagos State University Muslim Community (LASUMUC) at the University Central Mosque, Main Campus, Ojo, Lagos.

The Muslim community also presented a gift to Badejo as a symbol of togetherness and friendship.

Speaking at the gathering, the Vice Chancellor urged members of the university community to work together irrespective of their religious affiliations.

“Whether you are a Muslim or a Christian, we are all one. Let us unite and move LASU forward,” she said.

Badejo, who recalled her childhood experience growing up in Ebute-Metta, Lagos, said the spirit of religious harmony she witnessed while growing up should continue to be promoted within the university community and society.

She recalled that Muslims and Christians in her community celebrated festivals together, sharing food, meat and drinks.

“Once again, my doors are open; I operate an open-door policy. I thank the Muslim Community for this special moment and for the special prayers. Thank you so much,” she said.

Earlier, the Chairman of LASUMUC, Prof. Babatunde Yusuf, said the Muslim community had aligned itself with the Vice Chancellor’s Eight Strategic Pillars for the development of the university.

Yusuf urged the Vice Chancellor to lead the institution with justice, fairness and wisdom, while praying for divine guidance in the day-to-day administration of the university.

The prayer session was led by the Chief Imam of LASUMUC, Prof. Kudus Amuni, with the support of members of the Imam-in-Council, including the Deputy Chief Imam, Prof. Kabir Paramole, Dr Salman Yunus and Dr Sideeq Uthman.

Prayers were offered for Badejo’s success, divine protection, wisdom, outstanding achievements and peace throughout her five-year tenure as Vice Chancellor.

The session also provided an opportunity for members of the university’s Muslim community to formally welcome the new Vice Chancellor and pledge their support for the continued development of LASU.