CGNS celebrates LASU VC, launches Chronicles of Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello

Cyriacus Nnaji

Monday, October 14, 2024, in the history of the Lagos State University would forever be remembered as the day their amiable and courageous Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello was specially honoured by her constituent.

The crème de la crème in the academia, politics, commerce and industry, the media and well-meaning Nigerians gathered at the popular Radissson Blu Hotel and Suites in Ikeja Lagos to give honour to who it is due, by unveiling a special book written in her honour by the Centre for General Nigerian Studies (CGNS) of Lagos State University.

The 160 page book “Chronicles of Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, co-authored by Professor Mubasiru Olayiwola Mohammad, Mr. Martin Ademola Adekoya; Mr. Adeyemi Sulaiman Dada; Mr. Adewunmi S. Olori; Mrs. Abidat O. Mohammed; and Mr. Seun Gbanja was Published by Lagos State University Press, and reviewed by the Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University of Education, Lagos, Professor Bidemi Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye.

According to the reviewer, the book is structured into several sections, each delineating different aspects of Professor Olatunji-Bello’s life and work. It encompasses a collection of essays, testimonials, and critical reflections that collectively highlight her achievements in the fields of education and public service.

She added that a central theme of the book is the transformative power of education. ‘Professor Olatunji-Bello’s philosophy emphasises inclusivity, empowerment, and the importance of nurturing intellectual curiosity. The editor and contributors effectively capture her dedication through various narratives and case studies, demonstrating how her work transcends traditional boundaries of academia.

“The writing throughout the book is clear and accessible, making it suitable not only for scholars but also for a broader audience interested in the interplay between education and social development. The editorial coherence is commendable, maintaining a consistent tone while allowing individual voices to shine through. The inclusion of illustrations and photographs enriches the narrative, reinforcing the personal connection to Professor Olatunji-Bello.”

The 9th Substantive Vice Chancellor and second woman to have occupied the position in the institution was appointed to the position in 2021.

The book dedicates significant attention to Professor Ibiyemi’s tenure as the Vice Chancellor of LASU. It outlines her vision for the institution, her strategic goals, and the various initiatives undertaken during her administration. Her efforts focused on improving academic and professional programmes, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting the welfare of staff and students.

Olatunji-Bello’s administration focused on six strategic goals: academic programme accreditation, research and development, infrastructural improvements, revenue generation, staff and student welfare, and participation in sports and recreational activities.

According to the book reviewer, the book provides a comprehensive and insightful portrayal of Professor Ibiyemi Ibitola Olatunji-Bello’s life and career. The book offers an inspiring account of a woman who defied the odds to rise to the pinnacle of her profession. “Chronicles of Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello” is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a commitment to service. The collectanea celebrate her accomplishments, highlighting her resilience, determination, and dedication to education. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring leaders, especially women, in academia and beyond. Readers will find inspiration in her story, which demonstrates that with vision, tenacity, and grace, obstacles are surmountable.

Conclusion, she said “Chronicles of Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM” is more than just a biographical account; it is a tribute to a remarkable educator who has significantly shaped her field and community. The thoughtful compilation by Professor Mohammad and contributors serves as both an inspiration for future generations and a valuable resource for understanding the pivotal role of educators in society. “This book is a must-read for educators, students, and anyone who is interested in the discourse of educational reform, community development, impacts of educational leadership, and the legacies of transformative figures in academia.”

The Director, Centre for General Nigeria Studies (CGNS) Prof. Mudashiru Olaiwola Mohammed, the lead author and Chairman of the Organising Committee, who commended the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello for giving approval for the writing of the book described her with an acronym IBIYEMI

He said that letter I stands for integrity. “There is no contradiction or any debate on the integrity of Prof Olatunji-Bello as her records everywhere are unblemished. She lives by her principles and values which make her stand out among her peers and as a Vice Chancellor.”

The letter B, he disclosed, stands for Benevolent, Brilliant, and Beautiful. “People can attest to Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello’s kind-heartedness and philanthropic gestures. Her brilliance shines through not only in her academic achievements but also in the wisdom with which she handles every situation. Wherever she meets people, she treats them without sentiment but with love, grace, and kindness, reflecting the beauty of her character. No wonder she is referred to as the Senior Abiyamo of Nigeria (SAN). Her benevolence is second to none and unrivalled, which is a testament to how she has touched many lives and continues to do so with brilliance and a beautiful spirit.

Other letters include I, which stands for innovative ideas. “She has consistently contributed to the development of LASU with her numerous innovative ideas, which have impacted positively in every facet of life in the university. A generous 98% score was gathered in this regard. Y also stands for Yearning. Prof Olatunji-Bello always yearns to be the best in any area she finds herself as the best because she doesn’t see herself at the bottom but at the summit. This can be seen in her career life and her triumphant to becoming the Vice Chancellor. She is an example of a courageous, dogged and rugged individual.

“E stands for Exemplary. The Vice Chancellor is an exemplary leader. She has consistently behaved in an exemplary fashion even in a position that’s mostly dominated by men folks and she no doubt stands out and exudes that aura of excellence whenever you come across her. M – stands for Magnificent. She is extremely beautiful, outstanding, very good gorgeous, glittering, elegant, brilliant, grandiose and so on. She is passionate and adorable, which makes her an amazon that everyone wants to associate with. I stands for intellectual sagacity – Her intellectual sagacity has ensured that solutions are being proffered to myriad challenges facing the university. She consistently engaged robustly with the government, industries and private sectors on how to move the university forward,” Prof Mohammed stated.

Prof Mohammed disclosed that the acronym explained why Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello deserved to be celebrated at this present time when she is marking her 3rd year anniversary in office. “I have chosen not to dwell explicitly on her achievements so as not to be seen as playing to the gallery and x-raying some of the content of the book. The acronym IBIYEMI, however, says it all about the personality of the Vice Chancellor whom we are happy to celebrate today.”

Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, in her response, thanked God for making the day a reality. “Permit me to start by giving glory to the Almighty God for making today a reality. I also return all glory to Him for making me a woman worth celebrating, someone with a value that people can see and celebrate. To Him alone be all the glory. I am humbled by the array of the esteemed personalities who have also gathered today at the invitation of the Centre for General Nigerian Languages to celebrate the launch of this book -The Chronicles of Ibiyemi Ibilola OLATUNJI-BELLO – in my honour.”

She commended those who put the book together without any funding from the university coffers. “Finally, I reserve the biggest appreciation to the Chronicles of Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello team, under the leadership of my dear Director of CGNS, Prof. Mubashiru Olayiwola Mohammed. I lack the words to adequately convey the extent of my happiness, my joy at the initiative to write this book and launch it on my behalf.

“Today, without funding from the university, Prof. Mohammed and his team have put this extraordinary event together, leveraging on their connections and the support of some wonderful friends of the university. Please celebrate them with me,” the VC stated.

Those at the book launch include Her Excellency Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire Special Adviser to the President on SDGs, who was the chairman of the occasion; the Chief Launcher, Dr Chris Bamidele Onalaja, MD/CEO Revolution Plus, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education Hon. Tolani Sule, represented by Permanent Secretary, Tertiary Education, Ministry of Education, Dr Adeniran Waheed Kasali; Pro Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council, LASU Sir, David Sunmoni and other members of Governing Council, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academics Prof. Olufunsho Omobitan; Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel A. Fabulous; Bursar, Mr. Said Olayinka; Librarian, Dr. Omawunmi Makinde; Deans of Faculties, staff and other well- meaning dignitaries.