Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced a personal cash gift of ₦20 million each to the top two graduating students of Lagos State University (LASU) during the institution's combined 29th and 30th convocation ceremonies at the Ojo campus. One of the recipients, Adebanjo Samuel Oluolamide, has now accumulated a total of ₦30 million in cash awards after receiving an earlier ₦10 million prize from the Sunbeth Excellence Partnership Programme.
Governor's Personal Donation Announced at Convocation
Sanwo-Olu made the announcement on Wednesday during LASU's combined convocation ceremony held at the university's main campus in Ojo, Lagos. According to Jubril Gawat, the Lagos Governor's New Media aide, the governor disclosed the cash gift during the event. Gawat wrote: "Governor of Lagos State, Mr @jidesanwoolu and Visitor of the Lagos State University (LASU) today announced a cash gift of 20 million Naira (20,000,000) EACH for the Best Graduating Student(s) of the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 Session(s)."
In a video shared from the event, Sanwo-Olu confirmed that the money was his personal donation. "Ayilara Lawal Olawale and Adebanjo Samuel Oluolamide, each one of you will earn 20 million naira each," the governor said.
Meet the Top Graduates and Their Academic Achievements
Ayilara Olawale graduated with First Class Honours in Project Management Technology, securing a 4.96 CGPA to become the best graduating student for the 2024/2025 session. Adebanjo Samuel Oluolamide earned First Class Honours in Aerospace Engineering with an outstanding 4.97 CGPA, making him the overall best graduating student for the 2025/2026 session. Oluolamide's achievement capped a remarkable week where he collected ₦30 million in combined cash prizes, including the earlier ₦10 million from the Sunbeth Excellence Partnership Programme.
Reacting to his achievement, Olawale credited his success to God. "Grateful beyond words to graduate as the Best Graduating Student of Lagos State University, Ojo, for the 2024/2025 Session. Every victory was by Allah's grace. Here's to bigger dreams, impact, and a lifetime of excellence." Oluolamide also celebrated on social media, writing: "4.97 / 5.00 CGPA. First Class Honours in Aerospace Engineering at Lagos State University. Official Senate Approval." He added: "All glory to God for His grace, wisdom, and strength every step of the way. What God cannot do does not exist!"
Over 20,000 Students Graduated Across Two Sessions
LASU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, disclosed that more than 20,000 students graduated across the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 academic sessions. Out of the total number, 494 students finished with First Class honours. The governor's surprise announcement has sparked reactions online, with many Nigerians congratulating the graduates and noting that academic excellence has become a profitable investment.
