Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the appointment of Professor Badejo Ayodeji Olawunmi as the new Vice-Chancellor of the Lagos State University, Ojo, in a decision announced on Wednesday by the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso.

Professor Badejo, whose maiden name is Faji, is a scholar of Guidance and Counselling who was born on August 4, 1962. She holds both a doctorate and a Master of Education degree in Guidance and Counselling from the University of Lagos, where she built much of her academic career before rising to the helm of one of Lagos State’s foremost tertiary institutions. Her appointment was made in line with the provisions of the LASU Law, with Governor Sanwo-Olu acting in his capacity as Visitor to the university.

She takes over from Professor Ibijoke Olatunji-Bello, who is stepping down after completing a five year tenure that saw her steer the affairs of the institution through a demanding period for Nigerian higher education. Olatunji-Bello had assumed the role in January 2021 and leaves the position having overseen the university through a term the state government says has now formally expired.

The appointment adds Professor Badejo to a growing list of women who have taken up leadership of major Nigerian universities in recent years, and it comes as Lagos State continues to place emphasis on strengthening governance structures across its tertiary institutions.

Further details on the incoming vice chancellor’s tenure and transition plans are expected as the university formally announces her resumption date.