Tokunbo Abiru, a Senator representing Lagos East, has urged young people to model their success after individuals who have achieved greatness through fostering strong bonds, embracing teamwork, and demonstrating unwavering dedication to hard work.
Gatekeepers News reports that Abiru made this remark while speaking at the sidelines of the 35th-anniversary celebration of the Alumni Pioneer Class of 1988 at Lagos State University (LASU), themed “A New Phase – Managing Life After Retirement.”
Abiru, who himself is a member of the class of ’88, emphasized the valuable lessons to be learned from the class of ’88, highlighting the enduring spirit of bonding among its members.
Reflecting on the journey since graduation, Senator Abiru remarked, “We graduated 35 years ago and went our separate ways, but there is still a bond that is bringing us together. So, the younger generation coming behind should learn from such an arrangement because that is how a society evolves properly. The fact that we can lean on one another, reach out to one another, I think, is part of how a society evolves in a very decent manner.”
In addition, Prof. Abiodun Denloye, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at Lagos State University of Science and Technology, shared valuable advice for young individuals. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning for staying relevant in one’s chosen career.
He advised, “I encourage individuals to understand that what you studied yesterday may no longer be applicable today. Hence, it is crucial to maintain a continuous learning process. Personally, I initially studied zoology, but over time, I evolved into an expert in biosecurity. This transformation signifies a shift from theoretical knowledge to practical applications, making a substantial difference. The pursuit of knowledge should be perpetual, and we must also embrace the spirit of teamwork.”
During his address, Olabode Garbadeen, the President of the LASU Pioneer Class ’88, highlighted the primary purpose of the gathering.
He stated, “Our assembly serves as a testament of gratitude to God and provides a unique opportunity for interaction, the exchange of experiences, and collaborative planning for the future, particularly in terms of contributing to our alma mater.
“Today marks 35 years since our graduation from LASU, and a total of 39 years since we first entered the institution. This milestone calls for celebration, considering the significant journey we’ve traversed. The fact that many of our members have excelled in various industries, social circles, government, military, and diverse spheres of life is a cause for collective celebration.
“Hence, the fundamental reason for our convergence today is to showcase our achievements, express gratitude for what God has done for us, and outline our path forward. We aim to provide a platform for social, business, and moral interactions, emphasizing the manifold reasons why our coming together is not only beneficial but essential,” Garbadeen stated.
In her address earlier, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the Vice-Chancellor of LASU, described the anniversary as a momentous occasion of immense significance, both for the class and the university as a whole.
Recognizing the historic role of the class of 1988 as pioneers, Olatunji-Bello remarked, “Celebrating 35 years since your graduation is fitting, and I take great pride in sharing this moment with every member of the class of 1988 present here today. This event calls for reflection on the remarkable journeys each of you has undertaken.”
While acknowledging the individual accomplishments of the alumni, the Vice-Chancellor urged them to shift their focus from self-centric living to a life devoted to serving humanity and, notably, their alma mater. She emphasized,
‘’LASU is currently in a state of rapid development, metamorphosing into the best university in West Africa by the grace of God. LASU is the foundation of the success of what you have made today; Now it is time to give back so that the university can be in a place to also give life to the dreams of other young ones.”
