By Feyisayo Arowolo
The University of Lagos has formally admitted 9,179 fresh Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), Direct Entry (DE), and Institute of Continuing Education (ICE) students at its 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony.
The ceremony was held at Jelili Adebisi Omotola Hall on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 and attended by principal officers of the university, including the Vice-Chancellor, the Registrar, Faculty Deans, the Dean of Student Affairs, among others.
Proceedings began at 9:00 a.m. with the procession hymn and the university anthem. The Registrar, Mrs. Abosede Victoria Wickliffe, administered the matriculation oath and invited faculty deans to present their students.
Delivering her address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folashade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, congratulated the new students on securing admission into the “University of First Choice and the Nation’s Pride.”
She described their admission as a product of merit, hard work, and purpose, noting that the ceremony marked the beginning of an important chapter in their lives.
She also acknowledged Miss Olufunke Adio, a newly admitted Law student, for donating a cake on behalf of the matriculating students.
Professor Ogunsola stressed that education at UNILAG goes beyond academics, as it also focuses on building strong character and values.
“Academic excellence without integrity is an empty achievement,” she said.
She urged the students to conduct themselves with honour, honesty, and dignity at all times, both within and outside the campus.
“Reputation, once lost, is difficult to regain. Let your actions whether in the classroom, hostels, or the wider society reflect truth, responsibility, and respect.”
The Vice-Chancellor also cautioned students on the responsible use of social media.
“If you cannot say something in person, then you should not be able to say it digitally,” she added.
Describing university life as a journey of personal discovery and preparation for life beyond the campus, Professor Ogunsola encouraged students to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to give up.
She urged them to take advantage of the university’s resources, including library services, research and entrepreneurship centres, mentorship programmes, innovation hubs among others.
She further advised the students to familiarize themselves with and adhere strictly to the university’s rules and regulations.
“Following these rules is not a sign of weakness but of maturity and professionalism. Let discipline guide your choices and responsibility define your stay here,” she said.
Professor Ogunsola encouraged ethical collaboration, active intellectual engagement, and positive representation of the university and the country.
She also warned against social vices and urged students to choose their friends wisely and build good character.
She concluded her address with a quote by Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world – and yourself.”
In interviews with The Press Club, UNILAG, some matriculating students shared their feelings about the ceremony and their expectations.
“I feel good. What stood out for me was the Vice-Chancellor’s speech; she spoke like a mother to us, and it really touched me. I expect stress, fun, and success,” said Tamilore, an English Language student.
“I feel very happy. It was a long journey to gain admission into the best university in Nigeria. I loved the coordination of the ceremony, and I expect great opportunities,” said Adefolarin, a Computer Engineering student.
“I am glad that after all these years, I am finally in the university. I loved the uniformity in our dressing, and I look forward to gaining experiences and building entrepreneurship skills,” said Chinedu, a Geology student.
“I feel good, and what stood out for me was the cake because they said it had never happened before. I expect many good things,” said Victor, a Library and Information Science student.
Parents present at the ceremony also advised the new students to remain focused, avoid bad associations, uphold good values, and stay mindful of their goals and future.
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