lasuconscience
The Lagos State University Students’ Affairs Division held its annual Freshers’ Orientation program on Monday, November 17, 2025 and Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at the Buba Maruwa Auditorium. The two-day event was designed to formally welcome newly-admitted students into the LASU community, providing them with essential guidance, inspiration, and information to help them navigate their academic journey.
The first day of the two-day programme commenced on Monday, November 17th, at 9:00 a.m, with the auditorium filled with enthusiastic freshmen. The opening session featured Mr. Olumide, a motivational speaker, who spoke on the price of excellence and the importance of self-development.
The event was officially declared open following the arrival of the University Management Team led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, alongside the Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Abiodun Saani, Librarian, Dr. Omawunmi Makinde, and Acting Dean of Students’ Affairs, Dr. Abiodun Fatai-Abatan.
The Vice-Chancellor in her speech, congratulated the students on their admission into the best state university in Nigeria, and one of the best in West Africa. She emphasized LASU’s zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice, indecent dressing, extortion, assault, sexual harassment, and aggressive behaviour.
Addressing the freshers, the Acting Dean of Students’ Affairs, Dr. Abiodun Fatai-Abatan urged students to maximize school facilities, build strong GPAs, manage their time wisely, and read the LASU Student Handbook, in order to have a productive undergraduate journey.
Additionally, key members of the university community also addressed the students, explaining important information that can contribute to the students’ success and comfort throughout their stay on campus.
The day also featured interactive exercises, with Anibaba Titilayo, a freshman, winning ₦5,000 for her logical contributions.
Building on the momentum, the second day of the two-day event was held on Tuesday, November 18th, and was opened with a keynote speech by LASU alumnus and TechCabal Senior Editor, Mr. Ganiu Oloruntade, who urged students to embrace challenges, be financially responsible, and build skills beyond their academic discipline.
Prof. Igot Ofem, Director for Response to Gender-Based Violence (GBV), educated students on types of assault, and reiterated LASU’s intolerance for abuse. She shared helplines (0913400409, 08111148887) for students to contact in cases of GBV, while describing the location of the centre situated at the Sandwich Building.
Mrs. O.O. Boyejo, Director of Legal Affairs, outlined students’ rights and limitations, stressing that rights must not infringe on others or the university’s reputation.
CSP Oruwole Ojo (Rtd), Chief of Security, gave practical safety tips, warning against unsafe practices such as boarding free buses or engaging in “hookups.” Security hotlines were shared (08037161006, 08022913854).
Other notable contributions came from: Mr. Julius Nunayon (Deputy Registrar for Exams and Records), who emphasized record-keeping; Hon. Akapo Olawale Samson, Special Adviser to the Governor on Education and former LASUSU President, who encouraged students to filter friendships and build strong profiles, and Comr. Adebayo Korede Peters (APK) LASU Students’ Union President, who urged students to embrace unionism and utilize their time on campus wisely.
The day ended with a musical performance by Babatunde Samson, a Music Education student, who serenaded the hall with a LASU-themed song and won ₦10,000, sponsored by the Directorate of Students’ Affairs and Rt. Hon. Aruba Rufai.
The two-day orientation was a rich blend of inspiration, information, and guidance. From motivational speeches to practical advice on academics, health, security, and students’ rights, LASU freshmen were equipped with the tools to navigate their academic journey successfully. The programme reinforced LASU’s reputation as an institution of excellence, discipline, and opportunity.
Akojede Oluwadamilola, Correspondence, LASU Conscience
