The University of Lagos (UNILAG) hosted the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark to Nigeria, Mr Jen Ole Bach Hansen, and the Danish Consul-General in Lagos, Mrs Jette Bjerrum, on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in a visit aimed at strengthening international collaboration and enriching academic and cultural exchange.
The delegation was received on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research), Professor Bola Oboh; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Muyiwa Falaiye; Registrar, Mrs Abosede Wickliffe; and Director of Academic Planning, Professor Mathew Ilori.
Professor Oboh expressed the university’s enthusiasm for building a long-term relationship with Danish institutions, noting that UNILAG’s ongoing efforts are aimed at internationalising its curriculum. She highlighted the institution’s commitment to research in areas such as food security in urban environments, renewable energy, and other solution-driven initiatives through its innovation hubs and Centres of Excellence.
Additionally, Professor Falaiye identified potential areas for collaboration in Arts and African Studies and, along with Professor Oboh, reaffirmed the university’s readiness to launch joint projects that would foster innovation and strengthen institutional ties between UNILAG and Denmark.
In his remarks, Ambassador Hansen commended the serene and welcoming atmosphere of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) campus. He applauded the university’s dedication to academic excellence and cultural diversity, noting that Denmark is keen to deepen its diplomatic and educational engagement in Africa, with Nigeria positioned as a key regional hub.
He reiterated Denmark’s commitment to facilitating partnerships between Danish and Nigerian universities, including student and faculty exchange programmes and expanding existing Memoranda of Understanding between UNILAG and Danish institutions.
Speaking further, the Danish Consul-General, Mrs Jette Bjerrum, said the visit was part of ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation in education, the arts, and cultural exchange.
The engagement was facilitated by Tumi Onamade, Sustainable Value Chains Advisor for Denmark in Nigeria and an alumna of the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Both parties concluded the meeting with a shared commitment to explore areas of mutual interest, with a particular focus on student mobility, research collaboration, and promotion of the creative arts.
