By Esther Olaoluwa |
Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, has honoured Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, with its Leadership and Service Award in recognition of what the institution described as his outstanding performance and commitment to public service in Lagos State.
The award was presented during the university’s 24th Undergraduate Convocation Ceremony for the conferment of degrees and prizes, which attracted 3,400 graduating students, members of the academic community, parents and other distinguished guests.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Sanwo-Olu urged the graduating class to embrace new opportunities with faith, resilience and integrity, while contributing innovative solutions to Nigeria’s development challenges.
Governor Urges Graduates to Lead with Purpose
Delivering the convocation lecture titled “Breaking New Ground: Faith, Grit and the Work of New Beginnings,” the governor described leadership as a responsibility founded on integrity, accountability and service to humanity.
He encouraged the graduating students, known as the 2026 Undergraduate NOVA Class, to remain resilient in the face of challenges and actively contribute to nation-building by developing practical, evidence-based solutions to societal problems.
According to him, young Nigerians have an important role to play in shaping the country’s future through innovation, creativity and responsible civic engagement.
Reflecting on Seven Years of Governance
Reflecting on his administration, Sanwo-Olu recounted leading Lagos State through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the #EndSARS protests, describing those periods as defining moments that tested leadership, resilience and decision-making.
He noted that despite the challenges, the state has continued to record progress across key sectors, including transportation, education, healthcare, housing and technology.
The governor said Lagos State’s budget has grown from less than ₦900 billion in 2019 to ₦4.44 trillion in 2026, while the state was recognised by the Dealroom Global Tech Ecosystem Index in 2025 as the world’s fastest-growing technology ecosystem.
He added that his administration established two additional state universities, introduced digital learning initiatives in public schools, delivered thousands of housing units and is completing what he described as the largest children’s hospital in sub-Saharan Africa.
Babcock University Commended for Educational Excellence
Sanwo-Olu also commended Babcock University for its contributions to higher education and for producing graduates who continue to excel in different professions and sectors.
He encouraged the graduating students to uphold the values instilled by the institution and remain committed to excellence, integrity and lifelong learning as they begin new phases of their personal and professional lives.
Convocation Celebrates Outstanding Academic Achievement
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Miss Simisola Abore described the academic journey as demanding but rewarding, urging her fellow graduates to uphold the values of the university and contribute positively to society.
The convocation also recognised exceptional academic performance, with Miss Amosu Oluwapelumi emerging as the Overall Best Full-Time Graduating Student.
She received a cash prize of ₦10 million and attributed her success to consistency, discipline and hard work, encouraging other students to remain focused in pursuit of their goals.
The 24th Undergraduate Convocation Ceremony concluded with the conferment of degrees and prizes on 3,400 graduates, celebrating their academic achievements while encouraging them to embrace leadership, service and innovation in their future endeavours.
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