INDEPENDENCE DAY MESSAGE FROM THE VICE-CHANCELLOR ON THE OCCASION OF NIGERIA'S 66TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY

Our dear esteemed staff and world-class students,

On behalf of the Governing Council, Senate and Management of Lagos State University, I bring you warm felicitations as our great nation, Nigeria, marks her 66th Independence Anniversary today, 1st October, 2026.

Today is not just a public holiday. It is a day of reflection, thanksgiving and renewed hope. 66 years ago, our founding fathers, with courage and vision, secured for us the freedom we enjoy today. Their labour, sacrifice and belief in a united, prosperous Nigeria must never be forgotten.

As members of the Lagos State University community; most sought-after University in Nigeria, we have a special role to play in this national project. The University is a microcosm of Nigeria. Here, our students from every tribe, religion and background learn, live and work together in harmony. Here, ideas that will build Nigeria are being incubated daily in our lecture rooms, laboratories and studios.

This year's national theme, "From Reform To Stability: Consolidating Nigeria's Renewed Hope For Shared Prosperity", resonates deeply with our core values in Lagos State University as an institution that is currently consolidating on previous academic excellence, achievements, self-reliance and service to humanity.

On this occasion, I call on all staff and students to recommit to Excellence. Let us continue to be the pride of the nation through diligence, innovation and integrity. Nigeria needs LASU to lead in research and solutions to our national challenges. We need to continue to uphold the peace that the University is known for. We must tolerate one another, respect our diversity and shun all forms of divisiveness, violence and misinformation.

In conclusion, as we celebrate, let us remember that freedom comes with responsibility. Let us be good ambassadors of the brand "LASU" and Nigeria wherever we are.

As Management, we remain committed to providing a conducive environment for teaching, learning and research that will empower staff and students to contribute meaningfully to national development.

On this special day, I wish all staff and students a joyful, peaceful and reflective Independence Day celebration. May we witness more years of peace and progress in our University and our dear country.

God bless you all

Professor Ayodeji Olawunmi BADEJO, FCASSON, FAPROCON, MNAE

Vice-Chancellor,

Lagos State University