Sanwo-Olu Honoured as Patron of UK Varsity’s African Centre, Described as ‘Vice Chancellor of Lagos’ by Ogunsan

Sanwo-Olu Honoured as Patron of UK Varsity’s African Centre, Described as ‘Vice Chancellor of Lagos’ by Ogunsan

By Oki Samson

Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has been officially investitured as the Patron of the Centre for Africa Social and Economic Transformation (CASET), housed at the University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, United Kingdom. The event, which drew dignitaries from Nigeria, the UK, and other parts of the world, was held on the university’s Bristol campus.

Sanwo-Olu's recognition comes on the strength of his impactful THEMES+ Agenda, which has prioritized social inclusion, gender equality, and youth development—catalyzing notable advancements across Lagos State’s socioeconomic and political landscape.

A significant highlight of the governor’s reforms in education includes the EKO Excellence in Child Education and Learning (EKOEXCEL) programme. The initiative has notably improved gender parity in Lagos public primary schools, boosting female enrolment and performance in key examinations such as the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE).

Delivering his keynote at the investiture, Governor Sanwo-Olu lauded the leadership of UWE and the founding team behind CASET, including Vice Chancellor Prof. Sir Steven West and Centre Director Prof. Paschal Anosike. He described CASET as a “beacon of bold and bright promise,” pledging Lagos State’s full commitment to forging productive partnerships.

“Our policies are deliberately designed to equip young people with the skills, platforms, and capital needed to innovate, build businesses, and create lasting impact,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “Lagos is fast becoming a global creative and tech powerhouse—home to thriving artists and several unicorn startups.”

Dr. Ayo Ogunsan, a member of the CASET Advisory Board, presented the governor’s citation at the ceremony. In a powerful tribute, he described Governor Sanwo-Olu as “the Vice Chancellor of the best university in the world—a university called Lagos, with over 22 million students.”

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership has turned Lagos into a dynamic hub of innovation and socioeconomic growth. His contributions to education and youth empowerment perfectly align with the mission of CASET,” Ogunsan added.

The event marks a significant milestone in advancing UK-Africa collaboration on social and economic development, with Lagos State poised to play a leading role through the vision and partnership of its governor.