The University of Lagos Faculty of Engineering Alumni Association (UNILAGFEAA), in collaboration with the University of Lagos Office of Advancement, hosted an engaging interactive session titled “From Lecture Room to Board Room” with Engr. Wole Ogunsanya at the Julius Berger Auditorium, UNILAG, Akoka, on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.

The event provided students and members of the university community with the opportunity to hear directly from a distinguished engineering professional and strategic business leader whose career journey reflects the power of discipline, vision and sustained excellence.

In his remarks, Engr. Ogunsanya described the invitation as deeply meaningful because it brought him back to the environment where important ambitions first begin. He reminded students that the habits, discipline, curiosity and values they cultivate in the lecture room will shape the opportunities available to them in the future. Central to his message was a memorable line: “the boardroom is built on the foundation laid in the lecture room.”

He emphasized that success beyond the university requires more than academic performance. According to him, industry demands adaptability, discipline and continuous learning, especially in fast-changing sectors where technologies, markets and policies continue to evolve. He encouraged students to remain lifelong learners and to see professional growth as a continuous journey rather than a destination.

Engr. Ogunsanya also shared four practical lessons from his experience: focus on competence before titles; value character as much as competence; never stop learning; and do not be afraid of challenges. He stressed that reputation, integrity and reliability remain among the most valuable assets any young professional can possess, and that obstacles often prepare people for greater responsibilities ahead.

As he concluded, he turned attention to the wider national picture, reminding students that Nigeria’s true wealth lies not only in natural resources, but in the capacity of its people to think, innovate and lead. He challenged the audience to prepare themselves not merely for personal success, but for responsible service and meaningful leadership. In another striking line, he noted that “true leadership is measured not by the position you hold, but by the problems you solve and the people you uplift.”

For UNILAGFEAA, the session aligns strongly with the Association’s continuing commitment to connect the Faculty, its alumni and the wider public, while creating opportunities for networking, mentorship and the professional development of younger members. Internal UNILAGFEAA strategy documents identify public lectures, student intervention programmes and events that expose students to industry leaders as part of the Association’s core engagement approach.

The event also fits into the wider story of UNILAGFEAA itself. The Association grew out of a longstanding alumni tradition of supporting teaching, learning and research in the Faculty of Engineering, while also using talks, lectures and institutional engagement to inspire future generations.

“From Lecture Room to Board Room” was therefore more than a guest session. It was a timely reminder that the university experience is not only about earning a degree, but about laying the intellectual, ethical and professional foundation for a lifetime of impact.