Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has rewarded the top overall graduating students of Lagos State University (LASU) with ₦20 million each at the university’s combined 29th and 30th Convocation Ceremonies.
Epe Insights reports that the governor presented the cash awards to recognise outstanding academic performance during his final convocation visit to LASU as Governor of Lagos State.
The two beneficiaries were Ayilara Lawal Olawale, who emerged as the top overall graduating student for the 2024/2025 academic session with a 4.96 CGPA.
The second recipient was Adebanjo Samuel Oluolamide, who achieved a 4.97 CGPA in the 2025/2026 academic session.
Adebanjo studied Aerospace Engineering, while Ayilara studied Project Management at the university.
Sanwo-Olu described the recognition as an appreciation of the dedication, discipline and academic excellence demonstrated by the two graduates.
The governor congratulated both recipients for reaching the highest academic performance levels in their respective graduating sessions.
He noted that achieving such results required consistent effort, focus and determination throughout their studies.
Sanwo-Olu said the achievements of the students demonstrated what discipline and commitment could accomplish.
The governor also expressed pride in the academic performance of the two graduates and their contribution to the reputation of Lagos State University.
The cash awards were presented as part of the governor’s recognition of exceptional academic achievement at the institution.
Sanwo-Olu also used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to investing in young people.
He said youth development remains an important part of Lagos State’s development agenda.
The governor noted that supporting outstanding students can encourage academic excellence and motivate other young people to pursue their educational goals.
He encouraged students to remain focused and committed to excellence in their various fields.
The combined 29th and 30th Convocation Ceremony brought together graduates, parents, university officials, government representatives and other members of the LASU community.
The event provided an opportunity to celebrate students who successfully completed their various academic programmes.
It also highlighted the contributions of the university to human capital development in Lagos State.
Sanwo-Olu congratulated all the graduating students and acknowledged the effort required to reach the completion of their academic programmes.
He noted that every graduate had earned recognition for successfully completing the demands of university education.
The governor encouraged the graduates to carry the values of discipline, hard work and commitment into their professional lives.
He also urged them to use their education and skills to contribute meaningfully to society.
For the two award recipients, the recognition marked a significant milestone in their academic journeys.
Ayilara’s 4.96 CGPA placed him at the top of the 2024/2025 graduating class.
Adebanjo’s 4.97 CGPA earned him the distinction of being the top overall graduating student for the 2025/2026 academic session.
Their achievements also demonstrate the level of academic excellence being recorded by students of LASU.
The governor’s decision to recognise the students with financial awards further highlighted the importance attached to academic achievement.
Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State remained proud of the graduates and their accomplishments.
He also reiterated his commitment to youth development until the end of his tenure as governor.
The ceremony was particularly significant for Sanwo-Olu as it marked his final convocation visit to LASU in his capacity as governor.
He used the occasion to celebrate the graduates and encourage them as they begin the next chapter of their lives.
The governor urged all graduating students to remain ambitious and committed to making positive contributions.
He reminded them that academic success should serve as a foundation for further learning, innovation and service.
Sanwo-Olu also congratulated the families, lecturers and other stakeholders who contributed to the students’ achievements.
He acknowledged that academic success is often supported by the encouragement and sacrifices of parents, teachers and other members of the university community.
The LASU convocation therefore served as both a celebration of academic accomplishments and a recognition of the importance of education to the development of Lagos.
The governor’s recognition of the two best graduating students added another highlight to the ceremony.
Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence that the graduates would use their knowledge and skills to contribute positively to Lagos State and Nigeria.
He concluded by congratulating all the graduates and wishing them success in their future endeavours.
