The Lagos State University (LASU) Innovation Hub, established by the former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, and her siblings in honour of their father, the Late Alhaji Jimoh Kareem-Laka Orelope, was officially inaugurated on the 2nd of July, 2025.
This launch included an Open Day in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), where students ranging from undergraduate to Doctorate levels presented their innovative ideas to potential investors, stakeholders, and mentors.
Princess Orelope-Adefulire, who is a former Lagos State Deputy Governor, remarked that innovation and technology remain the hope of the nation, stressing that creating a viable platform like this hub for the teeming youth cannot be overemphasised. She urged young people to nurture their potential to bring pride to their families and the nation at large.
Some of the dignitaries present at the event include the Host, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the Vice Chancellor of the University; Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, the former Deputy Governor of Lagos State; the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, represented by Mrs. Ronke Azeez; Elsie Attafuah, Resident Representative of the UNDP; the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe; religious and traditional leaders; the two Deputy Vice Chancellors of the University; the Dean of Student Affairs; and several other faculty members.
The Innovation Hub, built with contributions from dignitaries who also earned a place on the Honour Wall, was conceived as a legacy project to nurture generations by promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, especially among students. This commitment was evident in the creative solutions showcased during the event.
Following the different presentations, stakeholders were able to connect with the innovators and pledge support in areas of funding, mentorship, and guidance to see that the ideas become reality.
In her speech, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, thanked everyone present, especially the UNDP Representatives and Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, for their contribution to the growth of the University.
Highlighting the importance of the occasion, the Vice Chancellor described the event as not just ceremonial but a call to action, encouraging collaborators and stakeholders to continue supporting and celebrating the achievements of the University’s innovators.
In conclusion, Professor Olatunji-Bello emphasized her belief in the transformative power of innovation within the university community, and in her words, “the future belongs to those who can create and adapt to any situation.”
Orelope-Adefulire said innovation and technology remain the hope of the nation, thus the need to create a veritable platform such as this hub for the teeming youths cannot be overemphasised, while encouraging the youth to develop their potentials to bring glory to their families and the nation at large.
