UNILAG 55th Convocation: Damilare Adebakin, Samuel Badekale Shine with Perfect 5.0 CGPA

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) celebrated academic brilliance during its 55th Convocation, honoring Damilare Adebakin and Samuel Badekale for achieving a perfect Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 5.0. The two outstanding scholars, both from the Department of Cell Biology and Genetics in the Faculty of Science, were the highlights of the ceremony, which conferred degrees and diplomas on 16,409 students.

The convocation, held from January 10 to January 15, 2025, marked a significant milestone for the university. Speaking at the pre-convocation briefing, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, described the event as a celebration of dedication, excellence, and innovation. The graduating class included 9,684 undergraduates, 6,659 postgraduates, and 66 graduates from the UNILAG Business School.

A Moment of Academic Excellence

Adebakin and Badekale’s stellar achievements were celebrated with resounding applause in the J. F. Ade Ajayi Auditorium, reflecting their hard work, resilience, and intellectual brilliance. Their accomplishments underscore UNILAG’s commitment to fostering exceptional talent and academic rigor.

Keynote Lecture by NESG CEO

The convocation featured a keynote lecture by Dr. Oluwatayo Aduloju, CEO of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, titled “Universities as Hubs for Development and Wealth Creation.” Dr. Aduloju highlighted the pivotal role universities play in national development and global competitiveness, proposing strategies for Nigerian universities to unlock their full potential.

The lecture drew widespread praise, with Prof. Ogunsola commending its relevance and former Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, calling it “timely and profound.” Fashola emphasized the need for academia, industry, and government collaboration to drive innovation and progress.

Commissioning of New Projects

The convocation also featured the inauguration of transformative projects, including:

• The African Centre of Excellence for Drug Research, Herbal Medicine Development, and Regulatory Science, supported by the World Bank.

• A 120-bed extension of Moremi Hall, expanding student accommodation.

• The Learning Commons, a modern facility aimed at fostering collaboration and research among students.

Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), the Pro-Chancellor, praised the Vice-Chancellor’s leadership and vision, describing the projects as milestones in UNILAG’s journey of excellence.

A Commitment to the Future

As the convocation drew to a close, Prof. Ogunsola reaffirmed the university’s mission to produce well-rounded graduates ready to tackle global challenges. “Our mandate is to create knowledge, develop solutions to pressing issues, and equip our students to shape the future,” she stated.

With Adebakin and Badekale’s achievements shining as a beacon of academic excellence, UNILAG’s 55th Convocation will be remembered as a celebration of brilliance, innovation, and progress.