Prof Olatunji-Bello urges Nigerians to reflect on nation’s cultural diversities, history, values that guarantee unity
admin October 2, 2025 0
The Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU) Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, has urged Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s cultural diversities, history and values that guarantee unity.
Prof Olatunji-Bello made the call at the institution’s General Nigerian Studies, GNS Day which took place at the Makanjuola Lecture Theatre in Ojo, on Thursday, October 2, 2025.
The event which was a tripartite one, apart from being used to mark the 4th anniversary of the 9th substantive Vice Chancellor of the great institution, the GNS Day also coincided with a significant national celebration, the 65th Independence Anniversary of Nigeria.
Prof Olatunji-Bello said, “As we commemorate Nigeria’s journey since independence, it is timely and symbolic that we reflect on our diverse cultures, histories, and values that make us united people. Despite our ethnic differences, we are one nation with a common destiny.”
Speaking on the theme of the event, she said it couldn’t have been more relevant and harped on emotional intelligence which she said is germane in today’s multicultural society. “The theme for this year’s GNS Day, Ethnic Diversity in Nigeria: Emotional Intelligence to the Rescue, could not have been more relevant. Emotional intelligence, which she said is the ability to perceive, understand, and manage one’s emotions and relationships, is essential in today’s multicultural society. “It helps us foster respect, empathy, and cooperation among people of different ethnic backgrounds.
“Through emotional intelligence, we can build bridges where there are divides and promote peaceful coexistence in our communities and nation at large.
“It is my sincere hope that everyone present today will benefit immensely from the rich cultural displays and artistic expressions put together by our exceptional students. These presentations are not only entertaining but also educative, helping to awaken and preserve the cultural values that are fast disappearing in the face of modernization,” Prof Olatunji Bello stated.
The VC thanked all present especially the world class students and the Director of GNS. “To our world-class students, I am always proud of your commitment and participation in building the image of our university. Please ensure to make your attendance at today’s programme count. I also commend the Director, Centre for General Nigerian Studies, Professor Mubashiru Olayiwola Mohammed and his team for putting together the remarkable event. Your efforts in promoting cultural awareness and national unity are commendable. I also acknowledge all past Directors of the Centre for their contributions in strengthening the academic and cultural fabric of Lagos State University,” she stated.
In his welcome address, the Director, Centre for GNS, LASU, Prof M.O.B. Mohammed said that the Centre for General Nigerian Studies has consistently been a flagship of showcasing the ethos, values, and cultures that bind Nigerians together. He said, “Through GNS Day, we bring together people of diverse ethnic, social, and cultural backgrounds, by fostering a shared sense of belonging and nationhood.
“To this end, we are proud to spotlight the rich heritage of the five divisions of Lagos State — Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe (IBILE) — alongside cultural representations from other states of the federation. This intentional inclusion promotes unity in diversity, and it aligns perfectly with this year’s theme:
“Ethnic Diversity in Nigeria: Emotional Intelligence to the Rescue.”
“As we all know, Nigeria is a nation blessed with over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own unique language, culture, and tradition. Our diversity, while being our greatest strength, can become a point of tension if not properly managed. Hence, the choice of this theme is timely and apt. We must begin to leverage emotional intelligence — empathy, understanding, self-awareness, and effective communication — as tools to navigate our pluralistic society and build lasting peace,” he said.
Caption: From l to r; The University Liberian; the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Oseni Taiwo Afisi, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Adenike Boyo, the erudite scholar and Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof Olatunji-Bello, the Distinguished Guest of Honour, Chief Kaoli Olatunji Olusanya (Former Commissioner for Rural Development, Lagos State), the Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Fanu, the Bursar, Mr. Said Olayinka and Prof MOB Mohammed during the event
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