Gani Adams: Semiu Afolabi encouraged me to get diploma, degree at LASU
The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has revealed that Dr Semiu Adeshina Afolabi encouraged him to begin his academic journey at Lagos State University (LASU) by obtaining a Diploma in history and international studies before proceeding to acquire a degree political science from the institution.
Adams made the revelation while speaking at the Lagos State University combined convocation ceremony held at the university’s Ojo campus in Lagos, where Afolabi was among those awarded doctoral degrees.
In his words: “You may not know that Semiu was the one that encouraged me to study at Lagos State University, LASU. He first encouraged me to have a Diploma, and after Diploma, he encouraged me to go for a Degree, which I have today,” Adams said.
The Yoruba leader described Semiu Afolabi as an achiever and progressive individual who has consistently encouraged people around him to improve themselves and contribute positively to society.
“People did not know Semiu very well. He is an achiever, a progressive, he always encourages you to be a better product in the society,” he said.
Adams also urged Afolabi to deploy his academic knowledge and international exposure towards contributing to Nigeria’s economic development.
He said, “The Doctor I have is honorary from different universities, but the one Dr Adeshina Semiu Afolabi has is a pure academic qualification in economics.”
“We need your intellectual contribution to this country. You have travelled out to the US, but even travelling out to the US, we still need your input to drive the economy in possible ways in Nigeria,” Adams added.
The remarks were made during LASU’s combined convocation ceremony, which brought together graduands from the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 academic sessions.
The ceremony was attended by the Lagos State Governor and Visitor to LASU, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, members of the Lagos State Executive Council, university management, academics, traditional rulers, parents and other dignitaries.
The convocation featured the conferment of degrees across various categories, including first degrees, postgraduate diplomas, master’s degrees, professional doctorates and PhDs.
The event also provided an opportunity for the university to celebrate the academic achievements of its graduands and highlight its contribution to human capital development in Lagos State and Nigeria.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who attended the ceremony, charged the graduands to use their knowledge, skills and character to solve problems and contribute meaningfully to society.
He also announced a ₦20 million reward for the best graduating student from each of the two academic sessions.
The Vice-Chancellor of LASU, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, highlighted some of the institution’s achievements, including its efforts to strengthen academic excellence, research and internally generated revenue.
The ceremony also featured the conferment of honorary degrees on prominent Nigerians and attracted notable personalities from the political, business, academic and traditional sectors.
The event also featured a performance by Fuji musician Alhaji Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, who entertained guests as part of activities marking Afolabi’s achievement.
The event was held on August 19, 2026, at the Lagos State University main campus in Ojo, Lagos.
