The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has commemorated the 20th memorial anniversary of its seventh Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jelili Omotola, with a series of initiatives including a moot court competition, scholarship awards, and infrastructure upgrades within the Faculty of Law.
Vice-Chancellor's Tribute
Speaking at the event, Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola described Omotola as a visionary leader whose contributions to legal education and university administration remain indelible. "It is not just about being remembered, but whether a legacy will live on. For Professor Omotola, this is not in question," she said. Ogunsola noted that his tenure as vice-chancellor between 1995 and 2000 was marked by stability, innovation, and a strong commitment to excellence.
Infrastructural and Academic Contributions
She highlighted his contributions to infrastructural development, including the multipurpose halls now named after him, the Faculty of Law Annex, and the Postgraduate Office. She also emphasized his academic influence in Land and Property Law, particularly his works on the Land Use Act of 1978, which continue to shape legal scholarship and practice in Nigeria.
Pro-Chancellor's Remarks
Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), in his tribute, described the late professor as a man of honour whose life exemplified integrity, service, and dedication to the legal profession.
Moot Court Competition
The Dean of the Faculty of Law, Professor Abiola Sanni, said the moot court competition was organized to expose students to practical advocacy, reflecting Omotola's passion for law and excellence. He added that the initiative also demonstrates the global competitiveness of students from the faculty. "As far as we are concerned, our students can hold their own anywhere in the world," he said.
Scholarship Awards
The family of the late Omotola awarded scholarships to 20 law students, each receiving N1 million, to commemorate 20 years since his passing. A representative of the family described the initiative as a deliberate investment in the future of legal education. "Each award represents a year of his absence transformed into an act of presence," he said. He added that the beneficiaries were selected through a rigorous process based on academic excellence, financial need, and character, with students drawn from all levels of study.
Vice-Chancellor on Omotola's Beliefs
Ogunsola noted that the scholarship reflects Omotola's belief that no student should be denied access to education due to financial constraints, referencing his support for initiatives such as the Work-Study Programme.
Launch of LL.M Alumni Body
There was also the launch of the LL.M Alumni Body, which drew participants from across universities, particularly for the inter-university moot court competition. In the competition's final round between University of Lagos and Obafemi Awolowo University, UNILAG emerged winner and was awarded a prize of N1 million.
Family's Commitment
Ogunsola commended the Omotola family for their continued commitment to preserving his legacy through tangible investments in education.
