UNILAG SPGS Dean Oshinubi Extols Prof Okanlawon’s Mentorship of Younger Scholars

By Amadi Chidinma

The Dean of the University of Lagos School of Post Graduate Studies, Prof. Abraham Oshinubi, has praised Prof. Olugbenga Okanlawon for his mentorship of younger scholars in the course of his academic journey in the institution.

Oshinubi made this remark at the valedictory lecture of Okanlawon, held on September 6, 2026.

The theme of the send forth lecture was, “Beyond Anatomy: Custodian of Memory, Maker of Scholars, Builders of Institution.”

The dean noted the need to prepare younger academics to sustain institutional knowledge and leadership.

In his address, he said “Academic excellence should not be based on the number of applications, it should not be based on how many people have cited your publication. Academic excellence is a lot more than that”.

Also speaking at the event, the vice chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola hailed Okanlawon for his commitment and discipline which has contributed significantly to the academic institution over time.

She said, “Prof. Okanlawon career demonstrated the importance of service, mentorship and continuity in strengthening the university’s academic community.”

The impact of Okanlawon’s mentorship was evident in the department of Anatomy, right from when he was an undergraduate, securing distinction in Anatomy in 1977.

He became a student demonstrator providing impactful teaching for students a year behind him, from then, he remained a dedicated academic since 1982 influencing the next generation through teaching and mentorship.

The Head of the Department of Anatomy, Prof. Olufunke Dosumu also testified to the academic impact the celebrant had made in the department of Anatomy, adding that she had encountered him as a postgraduate student in 1999.

The HOD said he helped her produce her first scholarly publication and taught her the principles of academic writing.