Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Tuesday inaugurated the Lagos State University, LASU, Library Complex at the institution’s main campus in Ojo.
Sanwo-Olu, in his address at the inauguration, described the library named after him as a symbol of the state’s unwavering commitment to education, knowledge, and innovation.
It was reported that the newly inaugurated complex is a 350-seater, four-storey library comprising different sections which include 24-hour reading rooms, seminar halls, conference halls, administrative offices and others.
According to the governor, the Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu Library Complex, is the biggest university library in West Africa.
He said that the library represents more than a physical structure and a living testament to the transformative power of learning and the dreams of generations to come.
“This moment is deeply personal for me, not because it bears my name, but because it embodies the ideals that have shaped my journey.
“Education remains the bridge between potential and purpose, the most enduring legacy any generation can bequeath to the next,” Sanwo-Olu said.
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The governor said that the new library complex, equipped with digital research facilities, reading lounges, innovation labs, and extensive archives, would serve as a place where printed words meet digital possibilities, and where heritage meets innovation.
According to him, the edifice stands as a reflection of his administration’s THEMES plus agenda, which prioritizes education and technology as twin engines of development.
He said: “Over the years, LASU has grown into a citadel of excellence and a beacon of progress.
“It stands today as the best state university in Nigeria and the most sought-after in the entire black nation,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the contributions of his predecessors, including Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, and Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, toward the growth of the university.
He added that his administration had committed more resources than ever before to complete the library and other educational projects across the state.
“We see this not just as an infrastructure masterpiece, but as part of our ongoing investment in minds.
“Lagos will never stop investing in education because it is the educated mind that creates inventions, heals wounds, and redefines tomorrow,” he said.
The governor also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his continued commitment to human capital development and for supporting initiatives that advance education across the country.
Sanwo-Olu noted that under his administration, Lagos had continued to build an ecosystem where learning becomes “the passport to prosperity”.
“To have this library bear my name is not a monument to self, but a symbol of service.
“Leadership is not about leaving names on walls, but about leaving impact in people’s lives,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He urged students and staff of LASU to take ownership of the facility, safeguard it, and use it to nurture creativity, research, and innovation.
“This library will be a space of discovery, dialogue, and dreaming where the next Nobel Laureate, great author, visionary leader, or even future president will begin their journey,” the governor said.
Quoting the late literary icon, Chinua Achebe, Sanwo-Olu reminded students that “one of the toughest tests of integrity is a blunt refusal to be compromised,” urging them to be unwavering and incorruptible in their pursuit of knowledge.
“Let this complex inspire generations to come to think deeper, act better, and serve selflessly. While the building may age, knowledge and innovation will endure,” he said.
The governor concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the continued development of LASU and other educational institutions in the state, pledging to complete the ongoing faculty complex and other projects within the university.
He declared the Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu Library Complex open as “a territory of learning, a beacon of innovation, and a gift to prosperity”.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor, LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, said that the inauguration was a historic milestone in the school.
“We are here for the long-expected, eagerly awaited commissioning of what now stands as the largest university library in West Africa.
“A mortal symbol of vision, perseverance and partnership, this remarkable journey began about 14 years ago.
“The completion of this magnificent structure has now become a reality under my administration as the VC.
“I consider this both humbling and profoundly symbolic, a testament to God’s perfect timing and the enduring spirit of continuity in public service,” she said.
She said that the library added to the catalogue of remarkable infrastructure developments recorded by the university under the governor’s visionary leadership.
“Nearly two months ago, you led an array of distinguished Nigerians to commission the Tunji Bello Auditorium at our Epe campus, another landmark achievement that bears the hallmark of excellence.
Also speaking at the inauguration, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, applauded the state government for continuously ensuring that education remains a priority.
“LASU is the most sought after university, and It’s just not by coincidence, it’s by the attention of one person, the governor of Lagos State.
“It’s not just patronizing you. It’s a validation of your fervent belief in human capital development. You need to be celebrated.
“I am encouraging other governors in the country to be the tool of what the governor of Lagos State is doing,” he said.
While recognizing the library as the largest in any university in West Africa, Alausa said that the architectural masterpiece symbolized ambition, discipline, and a commitment to academic development.
“The Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu Library Complex is more than just a repository of books and journals, it preserves categorical knowledge, embodying the human quest for learning, innovation, and growth.
“As a smart and technology-driven library, it provides students with access to an extensive array of digital resources, journals, and global learning interfaces.
“It equips them with essential tools to thrive in modern world.
“The library complex signifies the future of learning, providing an environment that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and innovation for students.
“It also enhances research capabilities, and fostering potential for the university,” he said.
He added that he was always inspired each time he stepped into LASU.
“I’m always inspired by the leadership, innovation, and positive energy that emanates from the community.
“It is not a surprise that the university continues to grow from strength to strength. You’re building not just structures, but a legacy that will endure for the future.
“Continue to think globally, continue to advance, and push the boundaries,” he said.
Present at the inauguration were senior staffs of the university and the management.
NAN
