The immediate past Chancellor of Osun State University, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, on Wednesday urged Nigerians to live with clear conscience and contribute meaningfully to humanity regardless of their social status.
A statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, said Alakija spoke in Osogbo during the grand finale of a valedictory ceremony held in her honour.
The renowned businesswoman and philanthropist, who recently completed her 10-year tenure as Chancellor of the institution, expressed gratitude to the Osun State Government for appointing her, saying accepting the responsibility was one of the best decisions she ever made.
According to her, despite receiving several appointment requests from different organisations at the time, she accepted the UNIOSUN role after seeking divine direction through prayers.
“We should all try to do good no matter how little we have. Everyone can contribute positively to humanity and nation-building,” she said.
Alakija explained that the donation of the multi-billion-naira Modupe and Folorunso Alakija Medical Research and Training Hospital to the university was inspired by what she described as divine instruction.
She recalled that following the commissioning of the world-class medical facility, some people questioned why the project was not located in cities such as Lagos.
She, however, maintained that her decision was guided by God.
“I did what I did based on divine direction from God. I received divine guidance concerning the hospital project for Osun State University.
“I thank the Osun State Government, management, staff and students of the university for the support I enjoyed throughout my tenure. I am fulfilled having contributed my quota to the development of education and healthcare in the state,” she said.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Clement Adebooye, described Alakija’s tenure as transformative and impactful, noting that the institution recorded significant infrastructural and academic growth under her leadership.
Adebooye particularly commended her donation of the ultra-modern medical research and training hospital and her intervention in the construction of the university’s access road, describing the projects as enduring legacies.
Also speaking at the event, former Chairman of the Governing Council of the university, Prof. Yusuf Ali, urged students and young Nigerians to pursue purposeful education capable of positively impacting society.
Alakija served as Chancellor of the university from 2016 to 2026 and was widely recognised for her philanthropic contributions to education, healthcare and infrastructural development at the institution.
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