The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has officially lifted its decade-long suspension of student union activities, inaugurating a new leadership team headed by Bolaji Akinpelu.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at Tayo Aderinokun Hall, was presided over by Folasade Ogunsola, Vice-Chancellor, marking a significant step in restoring student representation on campus.
The development brings an end to a 10-year hiatus that began in 2016 when the university suspended the Students’ Union following protests that escalated into violence and property damage.
Dean of Students’ Affairs, Prof. Johnson Agunsoye, described the inauguration as a major milestone, noting that it signals the beginning of a broader transition toward a fully operational Students’ Union structure.
Ogunsola urged the newly elected executives to embrace responsible leadership and contribute to building a better institution.
To support the union’s takeoff, the university approved a N5 million grant, temporary office space, and the refurbishment of an 18-seater bus.
The Divisional Police Officer of Sabo Police Station, CSP Comfort Alabi, also charged the student leaders to promote peace, discipline, and avoid cultism and other disruptive activities.
Alongside Akinpelu as president, Apalomo Sunday was sworn in as vice-president, while Solomon Daniel assumed the role of general secretary.
The inauguration also covered executives across halls of residence and the Institute of Continuing Education, ensuring a broad leadership structure for student representation.
University authorities said the current arrangement is part of a phased transition, with plans to establish a fully constituted Students’ Union Executive Council and Students’ Parliament in the 2026/2027 academic session.
The move signals a renewed commitment by UNILAG to student engagement, following years of administrative management of student affairs in the absence of a formal union.
