Retired Justice Oguntade Honoured at Faculty of Law, UNILAG

The University of Lagos' Faculty of Law has honoured retired Supreme Court Justice George Adesola Oguntade with a newly refurbished annexe lecture hall in appreciation of his contributions to Nigerian legal education and jurisprudence.

With the help of alumni and associates, the facility was renovated and equipped with air conditioning and other modern conveniences, turning what had been a dilapidated area into a more comfortable learning environment for instructors and students.

The Faculty of Law is one of the institution's flagship faculties, with a long history of academic distinction and strong alumni engagement, according to Prof. Afolabí Lesi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), who spoke on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Folasade Ogunsola.

He pointed out that among law faculties across the country, the faculty has one of the largest numbers of Senior Advocates of Nigeria teaching, a strength that he claimed is demonstrated by the academic achievement of its graduates.

He claims that in the most recent bar exams, UNILAG's first-class graduation rate was the highest. Lesi emphasised the value of honouring excellence while it can still inspire and praised the donors for their decision to honour Justice Oguntade during his lifetime.

“We are not gathered to celebrate him in death, but in life,” he said. “The reward of an eminent jurist is not only in heaven but also here on earth.”

According to Prof. Abiola Sanni (SAN), dean of the Faculty of Law, the annexe hall plays a crucial role in the faculty's academic operations by housing several required and core courses.

He revealed that the building had been neglected for years before the intervention, resulting in structural wear and ongoing roof leaks that interfered with instruction.

“The renovation has been thorough and professionally handled,” Sanni said. “It restores dignity to the space and greatly enhances the quality of our teaching environment.”

Speaking as well, Lagos State Chief Judge Kazeem Alogba urged communities and institutions to foster a culture of honouring respected people while they are still living.

“Too often, we reserve accolades for when people are gone. It is far more meaningful to recognise excellence in a way that allows it to continue to inspire,” he said.