By Waziri Isa Adam Gwantu
The University of Lagos has reaffirmed its commitment to providing an enabling environment for scholarship and has pledged continued support to the Nigerian Academy of Letters.
The Vice-chancellor, Professor Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola, made the pledge in a goodwill message delivered through a representative on Thursday, 13th August 2026, during the 28th Convocation and Induction of New Members and Investiture of Regular and Honorary Fellows of the Nigerian Academy of Letters held at the University
The Vice-chancellor’s representative described the induction of UNILAG’s Chancellor, His Royal Highness, Dr. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, CFR, as an Honorary Fellow of the Academy as a proud moment for the university.
“This is particularly important for us at the University as today we recognize our Chancellor, His Royal Highness Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Ibn Umar Gabai El-Kanemi, CFR as Honorary Fellow of this distinguished Academy,” the VC said.
“We are particularly proud about this recognition because it highlights the role the Chancellor has played and still plays in the administration of not just this university, but education generally.”
He added that the Chancellor remains a distinguished member of the university community “even if he acts at the toppest or the topmost edge of this University.”
Speaking further, the VC said UNILAG remains open to all academic bodies in the country. “The University of Lagos is always open and available in the service of all the Academics, particularly the Nigerian Academy of Letters,” he stated.
“It is our considered opinion as a university that one of our major contributions to the development of this country is to create the environment for scholarship and scholars to thrive. That is why we are always excited to have the Nigerian Academy of Letters, which is the highest and the topmost academy for distinguished scholars in this area of academic endeavor.”
The VC also expressed appreciation to the Academy for consistently choosing UNILAG as the venue for its annual convocation.
“The Vice Chancellor is indeed excited and appreciative of your regular choice of this university as the home of your annual convocation. And indeed the University is available and ready to do more when requested and required,” he said.
He concluded by welcoming guests to the University of Lagos – the University of first Choice.