LAGOS: The University of Lagos (UNILAG) Alumni Association has unveiled plans to construct an 1,800-bed hostel on the institution’s campus to address the growing accommodation challenges faced by students.
The announcement was made by the Association’s President, Ifeoluwa Oyedele, during the 55th Anniversary Commemoration, Awards, and Dinner held on Friday in Lagos.
The event celebrated distinguished Nigerians and outstanding alumni with Platinum, Alumni, and Lifetime Achievement Awards for their contributions to national development and the university community.
Oyedele disclosed that the Association had obtained approval from the university authorities to use a suitable parcel of land for the hostel project, adding that construction would begin before the end of the year.
We have reached an advanced planning stage and are optimistic that work will commence before year-end. This project is part of our commitment to improve the learning and living environment for students, Oyedele said.
We are fortunate to enjoy a strong partnership with the university management, which continues to foster a seamless, cooperative relationship, he added.
Oyedele further revealed that beginning from the next convocation, the Association will introduce prizes for excellence in character and learning.
These awards targeted at academic staff, non-academic staff, and graduating students will be named after distinguished alumni honored at the event.
Beyond the hostel project, other initiatives were also announced. They include:
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Installation of two lifts in the administrative building of the College of Medicine.
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Refurbishment and upgrading of the Alumni Secretariat to international standards.
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Provision of renewable energy systems and restoration of water supply to various faculties; and
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Supply and installation of medical equipment at the UNILAG Medical Centre.
The Alumni Association honoured several prominent Nigerians for their outstanding contributions to the university and the nation.
Among the recipients were:
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Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun
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Chairman/CEO of Channels Media Group, Dr. John Momoh
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Chief (Dr.) Folashade Noimat Okoya (MON)
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Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN, CFR, OFR), Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council
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Chief Tunde Fanimokun, Life Director, Folawiyo Group
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Senator (Dr.) Opeyemi Bamidele, Senate Majority Leader
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Sir (Chief) Kessington Adebutu, Founder/CEO, Premier Lotto Limited
Others honoured included Olorogun Dr. Sonny Folorunsho Kuku (OFR, FAS, FAMEDS), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack (OON, mni), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Senator (Dr.) Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia (FCA, FCIB), Chief Christopher Adebayo Ojo (SAN), Dr. Kola Adeshina (MFR, FNSE, DSC), and HRH Prof. Epiphany Ainge (SAN, OON)
The well-attended event also featured the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, who represented the Lagos State Governor, and the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, who represented Chief Kessington Adebutu.
Others present included Hon. Oladipupo Olatunde Adebutu and several other distinguished guests.
The evening reaffirmed the Association’s unwavering commitment to supporting UNILAG through impactful projects, fostering excellence, and promoting strong alumni engagement for national progress.
