The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has conferred a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in French on a 78-year old man, Dr Hammid Taju.
The UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, announced this in her address at the 56th convocation ceremonies in Lagos on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Ogunsola said: “We have among the graduands today, Dr Taju, who obtained PhD in French at a youthful age of 78 years. He is the oldest graduating student this year.
“We also have an inspirational figure, Oba Sulaimon Bangbande, the Olofin of Isheri, who is also graduating with Master of Science (MSc) in System Engineering.”
Ogunsola added that other graduating students from UNILAG’s School of Postgraduate Studies and University of Lagos Business School (ULBS) will be awarded their degrees.
The UNILAG VC added: “The highlight of the day will be recognition of various individuals for their outstanding contributions to scholarship and humanity.
“Two retired academics, Prof. James Olowokudejo of the Department of Botany and Prof. Duro Oni of the Department of Theatre Arts will be honoured as Emeritus Professors.
“In addition, Prof. Akinsanya Osibogun, a distinguished Scholar of Medicine, will be conferred with the title of Distinguished Professor.
Over 16,000 students to graduate as UNILAG holds 56th convocation
“Gold medals will also be awarded to Prof. Ayoka Olusakin, a Professor of Counselling Psychology.”
She further stated that there would be recognition of other individuals for outstanding contributions to scholarship and humanity.
Ogunsola disclosed that 5,775 students graduated from UNILAG’s School of Postgraduate Studies and ULBS.
Ogunsola said 479 students completed their postgraduate diploma programmes, among which 41 made distinction.
The UNILAG VC revealed that 5,184 finished their Master’s programmes, with 429 making distinction.
She added that among 112 ULBS students, 32 made distinction.
“The overall best PGD student, who is also with the best PhD thesis in sciences, is Mr Haruna Abubakar,” Ogunsola said.
Ogunsola disclosed that Abubakar had a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering, (Structure Option).
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