Abuja – Lagos State University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, has been honoured by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) as one of forty five Distinguished Nigerians at the body’s 45th anniversary celebration.
The recognition, held in Abuja, cited her steady, people-focused leadership in higher education and her humane and welfarist approach that has earned her the nickname “Senior Abiyamo of Nigeria” among LASU staff and students.
Presenting the award, NANS President Olushola Oladoja commended Professor Olatunji-Bello for exemplary leadership in higher education, commitment to academic excellence, and transformative contributions to university administration.
Oladoja said her work in research, innovation, and human capital development continues to inspire young Nigerians.
In her acceptance speech, the Professor of Physiology thanked the apex student body for the honour, saying her core focus as Vice Chancellor is shaping the lives of young people.
She dedicated the award to LASU’s over 70,000 students, describing them as obedient, diligent, and exemplary in academic excellence.
Professor Olatunji-Bello was honoured alongside other national figures, including Department of State Services Director General, Adeola Ajayi, National Institute of Sports Director General and former Edo Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, Rivers State University Vice Chancellor, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi; and Bayero University Vice Chancellor, Professor Haruna Musa.
The award highlights her influence beyond LASU, with NANS and other groups noting her impact across Nigeria’s tertiary education landscape.
