Zaynab Openiyi, Editor, LASU Conscience
In a significant and strategic move for one of Africa’s leading institutions, Lagos State University (LASU) is set to host the International Conference of Community Psychology (ICCP) 2026. The announcement was made known by the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, during a press conference held at the Senate Chamber on Monday, January 12, 2026.
The press conference, which was well attended by members of the university management — including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Professor Oseni Taiwo Afisi; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Oluwatoyin Ayokunle Enikuomehin; the Registrar; members of the Local Organising Committee; as well as representatives of various media organisations — provided detailed insights into the forthcoming conference and LASU’s role in ensuring a successful hosting.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Gathering in the Motherland: Celebrating Ways of the Waters and Reconnecting to the Source,” the Vice-Chancellor explained that community psychology as a discipline focuses on understanding and improving the relationship between individuals and their broader environments, social, cultural, economic, and physical — with the aim of fostering well-being and positive change at the community level.
According to her, the conference is scheduled to be held from August 28 to September 7, 2026, at LASU. She revealed that the event will take place in three phases: pre-conference activities from August 28 to 30, the main conference from September 1 to 4, and post-conference activities from September 5 to 7. She added that the press conference aims to create public awareness, encourage participation, and mobilise partnerships and sponsorships at national, regional, and global levels.
Furthermore, Professor Moshood Olanrewaju, the Conference Leader, explained that Lagos was selected as the host location due to its prestigious status as “a centre of excellence and a major tourist hub.”
He added that, with the support of the Pan-African Psychology Union (PAPU), the conference is expected to attract over 700 participants from across the globe. He also disclosed plans for the establishment of a “World Community Hub” at LASU after the conference, aimed at deepening African perspectives in global psychology.
Responding to questions from journalists on the expected impact of the conference, Professor Olanrewaju affirmed that the event would bring long-term benefits, particularly for Nigerians and the Lagos community.
The press conference concluded with a call to media organisations, stakeholders, and corporate bodies to support the event through awareness creation, partnerships, and sponsorships, in order to ensure the successful hosting of an impactful conference.
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