A delegation from the Lagos State University Centre for Afro-Brazilian Studies (LASUCAS), led by the Director of the Centre, Professor Tayo Ajayi, has paid a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Distinguished Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, following the successful hosting of the Centre’s 4th International Conference in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
The delegation comprised members of staff of the University who participated in the landmark academic gathering held at the Faculty of Architecture, Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA), Salvador. The visit provided an opportunity to brief the University leadership on the outcomes, achievements, and impact of the international conference, which further positioned LASU as a leading institution in promoting global academic engagement and cultural diplomacy.
The 4th LASUCAS International Conference, held from Monday, 29th June 2026, was themed: “South-South Cooperation: Nigeria and Brazil’s Roles in Fostering Collaboration among Emerging Economies.” The conference brought together a distinguished gathering of academics, researchers, policymakers, diplomats, traditional rulers, cultural leaders, and stakeholders from Nigeria and Brazil to deliberate on pathways for strengthening cooperation between both nations.
Hosted in the historic city of Salvador, Bahia — a major centre of Afro-Brazilian heritage and cultural identity — the conference explored critical areas of partnership, including economic development, technological advancement, cultural exchange, sustainable development, education, and global governance.
The event highlighted the enduring historical and cultural connections between Nigeria and Brazil, particularly the influence of Yoruba and other African traditions in Brazilian society. It also provided a platform for scholars and practitioners to examine how South-South cooperation can contribute to innovation, inclusive development, and stronger relationships among emerging economies.
During the courtesy visit, Professor Tayo Ajayi commended the support and vision of the University leadership in advancing LASUCAS’ mandate of promoting research, cultural understanding, and academic collaboration between Africa and the African Diaspora. He noted that the conference represented another significant milestone in strengthening institutional partnerships and expanding LASU’s international footprint.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, expressed appreciation to the delegation for representing the University on the global stage and reaffirmed LASU’s commitment to initiatives that promote academic excellence, intercultural dialogue, and strategic partnerships with institutions across the world.
The conference also served as a reminder of the important role universities play in preserving cultural heritage, advancing knowledge production, and creating platforms for collaboration beyond geographical boundaries.
The delegation was composed of distinguished academics and senior administrative officials of Lagos State University. It included Professor Henry Hunjo, the University’s Orator; Professor Salami Dada of the Department of Economics; Associate Professor Sunday Bamisile, Assistant Director of the Lagos State University Centre for Afro-Brazilian Studies (LASUCAS); Dr. (Mrs.) Adetola Oye, former Head of the Department of Foreign Languages; and Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Opaleye, Deputy Registrar and Administrative Secretary of the Centre. Together, they represented the University’s commitment to advancing academic collaboration, cultural diplomacy, and Afro-Brazilian studies through international engagement.
Through LASUCAS, Lagos State University continues to deepen its engagement with Brazil and the wider global academic community, reinforcing the historical bonds between Nigeria and Brazil while contributing to contemporary conversations on development, identity, and international cooperation.
