Lagos State University, on Monday, hosted its symbolic coconut-breaking ceremony, a cultural event held in the spirit of unity, prayers, and progress for the institution and its community.
The event, led by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, took place at the Ojo campus as part of the 28th convocation activities.
Emphasizing the importance of the ceremony, Olatunji-Bello described it as more than a tradition, a representation of the university’s journey and identity.
“The coconut breaking ceremony serves as a profound reflection of our collective journey as an institution,” she said.
“The act symbolises an opportunity to offer prayers for the general well-being of our staff, students, and all stakeholders.”
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the ritual is a deep expression of LASU’s cultural identity, intricately tied to the heritage of Lagos State.
“The ceremony promotes unity, peace, and the continuous development of the university,” she added.
“Today, as we break the coconut, we break through barriers.”
She further noted the personal significance of the event in her leadership journey at LASU.
“It is with profound pride in our rich heritage and tradition of excellence that I warmly welcome you all to the coconut-breaking festival, one of the most symbolic events marking our 28th convocation ceremony,” she remarked.
“This event holds a special place in my heart as it marks my fourth coconut-breaking ceremony since assuming office as Vice-Chancellor.
“It reflects the enduring cultural identity of Lagos state and upholds the values we cherish at LASU.
“It is also a reminder that the rewards of our labour are not always immediate, but they are always forthcoming when we persevere.”
She urged graduating students to take with them the life lessons symbolized in the act of breaking the coconut.
“I urge you to carry forward the lessons embedded in this tradition, the importance of resilience, the value of hard work and the understanding that your journey will always be shaped by the obstacles you overcome,” she advised.
“As we break this coconut, let us not only celebrate our achievements, but also renew our commitment to the journey that lies ahead.
“Let us embrace the challenges that we will overcome, knowing that every obstacle we face will bring us one step closer to our goals.”
The Vice-Chancellor also appreciated the collaboration between LASU’s Directorate of Advancement and the National Board and branches of the Alumni Association for their role in organising the second LASU Alumni Homecoming, scheduled for December 2024.
“Your collective efforts led to the successful organisation of the event. We appreciate you all.
“I thank all members of management, staff and students for your collaborative support that has significantly elevated the status of our university.
“I would like to appeal to the Alumni Association to continue leveraging its goodwill to secure endowment and grants for research funding in the university,” she added.
She expressed optimism about sustained partnerships with alumni to strengthen the institution’s foundation of excellence.
“I urge you to invest in the LASU project. Your investments will be deeply appreciated and I have no doubt that they will be rewarded by the Lord Almighty.
“I express my heartfelt gratitude and commendation to the Alumni Association for consistently organising the festival as part of our convocation ceremony.”
Also speaking at the ceremony was the National President of LASU Alumni, Mr. Norisson Quakers, represented by Prof. Basirat Oladipupo, who emphasized the geographical and historical significance of the coconut to LASU’s location.
“Considering the area where LASU is situated, which is Badagry, coconut is synonymous to the Badagry area.
“We have made the tradition of coconut breaking in LASU right from the inception. Everybody can bear the witness that coconut is significant to the alumni and it is our tradition.
“This is our heritage, and we, the current executives, will not take it for granted. We want to be part of it,” she affirmed.
Prof. Oladipupo pledged that the alumni body would go beyond ceremonial participation to contribute meaningfully to the university’s development.
“I want to use this opportunity to let you know that it is not only for us to come during ceremonies, wine and dine and break coconut and go.
“Alumni is much more than that. We know what we should do as a body; and we are giving our promise right from now that we will right all the wrongs.
“Whatever that is needed to be done, will be done to your satisfaction. Before you leave this office, you will see our hand very well,” she assured.
The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the LASU Coconut Breaking Festival is a cultural celebration rooted in unity and tradition.
It also serves as a commemoration of Nigeria’s first coconut plantation, established in 1876 by the Roman Catholic Mission on Topo Island in Badagry.
Dignitaries at the event included students, faculty members, university administrators, and guests from other academic institutions.
