By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Pro. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe and Prof. Yunus Adeleke Dauda |
BADAGRY, Lagos – The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, has issued a stern charge to the newly admitted students of the Lagos State University School of Basic and Advanced Studies (LASUSBAS), emphasizing that entry into the university’s 200-level degree programs is a reward for excellence, not a guaranteed right.
Speaking on Monday at the 2025/2026 Orientation Programme held at the LASUSBAS Badagry Campus, the Vice-Chancellor described the Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) program as a rigorous academic bridge. She noted that while LASU provides a world-class foundation, only students who demonstrate consistent discipline and high performance will successfully transition to full undergraduate status.
The event was graced by Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, a prominent figure in the Badagry Local Government, who shared a nostalgic connection to the campus. Reflecting on the institution's evolution, Hon. Hunpe noted that he started his own career at the very same location back when it was known as the LASU Guest House.
Commending the Vice-Chancellor for her transformative leadership, Hon. Hunpe stated, "We want to say we are very proud of her." He further reassured the incoming students of their safety within the host community. "I would like to tell the students that Badagry is very peaceful and we would continue to maintain that peace. They should be rest assured, settle down, and face their studies," he added.
Professor Olatunji-Bello clarified that the LASUSBAS program is far more than a "waiting room" for admission seekers. Instead, it serves as a competitive preparatory platform designed to sharpen the intellectual capacity of students.
"Let me state clearly that progression into 200-level or full undergraduate admission is not automatic," the VC warned. "It is highly competitive and strictly based on performance, conduct, and compliance with institutional regulations."
Reinforcing the university's reputation for character and learning, the Vice-Chancellor reminded the students that LASU maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward academic misconduct and anti-social behavior. She urged the freshers to stay away from any activities that could jeopardize their stay, noting that the university promotes a culture of integrity and responsible citizenship.
The Director of LASUSBAS, Prof. Yunus Adeleke Dauda, echoed the VC's sentiments, urging students to remain focused to ensure they meet the criteria for the 200-level transition. He highlighted the rapid expansion of the university under Prof. Olatunji-Bello’s leadership, including the establishment of four new faculties: Allied Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Environmental Sciences, and Archival and Information Science.
Despite the achievements recorded, Prof. Dauda used the occasion to request further developmental support for the Badagry Campus. Key requests presented to the University Management included: Construction of additional classrooms and science laboratories. Establishment of a dedicated clinic for students and staff. Provision of a 32-seater Hummer bus for campus logistics. Development of new male and female hostels within the campus.
In a significant update regarding the future of the program, it was revealed that the JUPEB Board has proposed conducting the 2026 examinations via Computer-Based Testing (CBT). This move aligns with LASU's vision of becoming a digitally innovative institution, ensuring that students are prepared for the technological demands of modern education.