By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Professor Paul-Sewa Thovoethin |
Professor Paul-Sewa Thovoethin, a renowned expert in Comparative Politics and Public Policy at Lagos State University (LASU), has celebrated a dual milestone: his 25th anniversary at the institution and his recent elevation to the rank of Professor.
The celebration, held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at the Methodist Church in Ajara, Badagry, served as both a thanksgiving and a clarion call to Nigerian youths to prioritize education.
The event marked exactly a quarter-century since Professor Thovoethin joined LASU in February 2001. Reflecting on a career that began with an Ordinary National Diploma (OND), the scholar described himself as a "product of circumstance" who defied the odds to reach the pinnacle of academia.
His journey from a Graduate Assistant to a Professor a path that took nearly 24 years was one marked by resilience in the face of institutional delays and academic politics.
"I will tell you I’m a product of circumstance," Prof. Thovoethin shared during the thanksgiving service. "Ordinarily, I wasn't supposed to be in the academic line because I started as an OND student. By the grace of God, I started as a graduate assistant and, despite the ups and downs, I am hale and healthy today to celebrate being the first Professor in the entire Ajara Kingdom."
Addressing the younger generation directly, the Professor challenged the cynical view that academic pursuits are futile in today’s economy. He emphasized that education remains the most enduring legacy and the surest path to self-actualization.
"I will tell the youths that education is not a scam; it is the best legacy a parent can give. I was once at a stage where I wasn't serious about academics, but I realized there are no two ways to it. If I could achieve this, I believe they can achieve even more than I have done," he added.
The celebration also touched on the political climate in Nigeria. As a Professor of Political Science, Thovoethin lamented the rise of "transactional politics" that prioritizes selfish interests over the masses. However, he expressed optimism regarding the current leadership in Badagry, noting a positive shift toward community-focused governance.
Among the dignitaries present was Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, former House of Representatives member and a key figure in Badagry’s political landscape.
Hunpe lauded the Professor’s contributions to the community, describing him as a "wonderful person" whose intellectual support was instrumental in his own political journey.
"Professor Thovoethin encouraged and supported me to venture into politics. I want the youths to emulate him the first Professor in Ajara Kingdom. We celebrate his life and his dedication to this land," Hunpe remarked.
The 25-year milestone cements Professor Thovoethin’s legacy at Lagos State University, where he previously made history as the first lecturer in the Political Science Department to produce a PhD graduate in 36 years. His story stands as a testament to the fact that with persistence, the "long road" of education eventually leads to the highest peaks of honor.