OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON THE RESTORATION OF STUDENT UNIONISM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS
The Management of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) is pleased to formally announce the lifting of the decade-long suspension on student unionism, ushering in a new era of inclusive, democratic, and responsible governance on the Akoka campus.
The successful inauguration of the newly elected executives of the University of Lagos Students’ Union (ULSU), led by President Bolaji Akinpelu, signals the end of a ten-year period without a central, formal platform for student representation and advocacy. This landmark decision reflects the University’s strategic commitment to fostering constructive dialogue, enhancing student welfare, and integrating the voices of its vibrant student community into the broader institutional decision-making process through transparent and democratic channels.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT: FROM SUSPENSION TO RESTORATION
The suspension of the University of Lagos Student Union (ULSU) approximately ten years ago was a necessary administrative measure taken in response to a series of disruptive protests and internal conflicts that threatened the stability of the academic calendar. In the intervening period, student interests were coordinated through faculty and departmental associations, which, while valuable, could not provide the unified central voice required for effective campus-wide representation.
Over the years, sustained advocacy from alumni, student groups, staff unions, and other stakeholders consistently called for the reinstatement of a structured Students’ Union. The 2026 restoration is grounded in a renewed “New Deal” framework anchored on the pillars of Discipline, Transparency, Accountability, and Responsible Leadership. This carefully calibrated approach is designed to revive student unionism while safeguarding the University’s core mandate of uninterrupted academic excellence and institutional harmony.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, who presided over the swearing-in ceremony held at Tayo Aderinokun Hall, commended the pioneering student leaders for their readiness to chart this new course.
THE EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP: ULSU 2026 CABINET – THE RENAISSANCE ADMINISTRATION
The inauguration has empowered a dynamic and diverse team of student leaders tasked with championing the welfare, rights, and aspirations of the entire UNILAG student body. The Central Executive Council comprises:
Central Executive Council (ULSU)
- President: Akinpelu Bolaji
- Vice-President: Apalomo Sunday
- General Secretary: Solomon Daniel
- President (Institute of Continuing Education – ICE): Oreoluwa Abraham
In his inaugural address, President Bolaji Akinpelu described the restoration as “a new beginning” and declared the incoming administration as the “Renaissance Administration”, pledging purposeful, responsive, and high-impact leadership guided by integrity and service.
HALL OF RESIDENCE GOVERNANCE: CHAIRPERSONS
Recognising the critical role of residential life in student experience, the University has also inaugurated Hall Chairpersons who will serve as frontline administrators for welfare, security, sanitation, and accommodation matters within the hostels:
Male Halls
- King Jaja Hall: Yinusa Teslim
- Eni-Njoku Hall: Junaid Samuel
- El-Kanemi Hall: Egbaaibon Christopher
- Femi Gbajabiamila Hall: Egbaaibon Leonard Kayode
- Prof. Saburi Biobaku Hall: Ebunoluwa Basit
- Makama Bida Hall: Oseni Oyinkansola
- Sodeinde Hall: Babawale Boluwatife
Female Halls
- Moremi Hall: Abiola Olamide
- Madam Kofo Ademola Hall: Augustine-Ojie Emmanuella
- Madam Tinubu Hall: Okpei Peace
- Queen Amina Hall: Erhabor Joanna
- Fagunwa Hall: Abigael Encharia
- Mariere Hall: Ebun Oluwaseun
THE MANDATE: ADVOCACY, WELFARE, AND CONSTRUCTIVE ENGAGEMENT
The new ULSU leadership is expected to operate under a philosophy of Responsible Representation. Key priority areas include:
- Student Welfare: Proactively addressing pressing campus challenges such as accommodation shortages, reliable power supply, efficient internal transportation, and improved learning facilities.
- Academic Excellence: Collaborating with the University Senate and Management to ensure academic policies remain fair, student-centred, and supportive of scholarly success.
- Peaceful Advocacy: Prioritising dialogue, negotiation, and mutual respect over confrontation as the primary instruments for resolving grievances.
This approach is intended to strengthen the partnership between students (“the Gown”) and Management while maintaining the University’s reputation as Nigeria’s “University of First Choice.”
CONCLUSION: A NEW CHAPTER OF DEMOCRATIC PARTICIPATION
The restoration of the Students’ Union Government at the University of Lagos marks a significant milestone in the institution’s evolution toward a more participatory, democratic, and inclusive campus culture. By entrusting leadership to this new generation of student representatives, UNILAG is not only reviving a cherished tradition but also investing meaningfully in the development of future leaders who embody the values of excellence, character, and service.
Management extends its best wishes to President Bolaji Akinpelu and the entire ULSU 2026 Cabinet. We call on all students to support this Renaissance Administration in building a more united, progressive, and harmonious Akoka community. Together, we shall write a new and brighter chapter in the illustrious history of the University of Lagos.
