By Peter Omopo,
LAGOS — The University of Lagos Consultancy Services (Unilag Consult) today unveiled plans to host a high-profile book launch, public lecture, and academic inauguration in honour of His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State. The announcement was made at a press conference held this morning at the Conference Hall of Unilag Consult, Akoka.
Professor John Lekan Oyefara, Managing Director of Unilag Consult, led the address, laying out the scope of what he described as a “triple event” — the unveiling of a book, a lecture, and the launch of a new professorial chair. The flagship event is scheduled for Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the Main Auditorium, University of Lagos, Akoka.
What’s Being Launched?
At the heart of the programme is the book Leadership Chronicles of Governor Douye Diri, a curated volume that aims to record, analyze, and celebrate the leadership journey and innovations of Governor Diri. In addition, an International Public Lecture will convene scholars, public servants, and thought leaders from within and outside Nigeria to reflect on leadership, governance, and the future of public service.
Perhaps most notably, the university will on that same occasion inaugurate a Professorial Chair on Leadership and Good Governance in honour of Governor Diri. Professor Oyefara explained that this chair is designed to be a living academic legacy, intended to further research, teaching, and policy discourse in ethics, transparency, innovation, and inclusive governance.
Themes and Vision
In his address, Professor Oyefara described the event as more than just a ceremony; it is a commitment to fostering a culture of documented, accountable leadership in Nigeria. Some of the focal values he highlighted:
Technology-driven governance — the book and lecture will feature how data, digital systems, and innovation are transforming public administration.
Democratic values & national unity — Governor Diri’s record, Oyefara noted, is notable not just for policy but for his consistent advocacy of inclusion, equitable development, and respect for civic freedoms.
Institutional legacy — through the Chair, Unilag intends for the lessons of Diri’s leadership to outlive the moment, influencing future generations of scholars and practitioners.
“We expect the presence of national and international dignitaries, members of academia, policymakers, and the diplomatic community,” said Professor Oyefara. “Governor Diri’s life and service reflect the ideals of purposeful, transparent, and forward-looking leadership.”
The breadth of the invitation list underscores the national ambitions of the project: to make the event a platform not just for celebration, but for cross-regional dialogue on governance.
What to Watch
Observers and members of the press are now looking ahead to November 5, when:
The Leadership Chronicles will be formally revealed
The International Lecture will bring thought leaders to the fore
The Professorial Chair on Leadership & Good Governance will be inaugurated
Insights from public policy, governance, and innovation fields will be shared in real time
The press conference closed with an open invitation — to scholars, media, and the public — to join Unilag Consult in honoring a figure whose work, the institution believes, merits scholarly capture, public reflection, and institutional continuity.
Event Details At a Glance
Date: Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Venue: Main Auditorium, University of Lagos, Akoka
Time: 10:00 a.m. prompt
Media Contact:
Unilag Consult Media Desk
Tel: 08032892222 | 09079025837
