By Noble Uchegbu Uchechukwu Zachariah,
National Publicity Secretary, UNAA
LAGOS, NIGERIA – Under the bright August sun at the sprawling Buba Marwa Auditorium, Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, royalty met academic distinction in a grand spectacle electrifyingly bridging tradition and scholarship. At the centre of this memorable celebration was a woman who embodies leadership, grace, and relentless drive: Queen Dr. Linda Ugochi Agua-Onyekwelu, the Global and National President of the University of Nigeria Alumni Association (UNAA).
August 19, 2026, was not merely another date on the academic calendar, it was a historic convergence of dignitaries, traditional rulers, and educational leaders. Queen Linda officially bagged her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Fisheries and Aquaculture, capping off years of rigorous research, discipline, and intellectual dedication.
A Star-Studded Arena of Majesty and Tradition
The atmosphere inside the auditorium pulsed with vibrant energy as traditional vibes and high-society fanfare welcomed guests to LASU’s 28th and 29th convocation, for the graduating classes of 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 as well the final ceremony led by the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, *Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM.
The event boasted an august assembly of leaders:
His Excellency, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor of Lagos State and Visitor to the University.
His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara and Chancellor of LASU, who notably earned a PhD from the institution on the very same day.
Mr. Babatunde Ogala, SAN, OFR, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council.
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa, and Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). Serving as a special guest at the high table, the Ooni’s royal entry lit up the arena with majestic Yoruba cultural heritage.
Industrial Royalty: Captains of industry were equally represented, with industrialist Alhaji Aliko Dangote represented by his daughter, Alima Dangote, alongside other distinguished honorary degree awardees.
The UNAA Family Unites in Celebration
The swell of pride was palpable among the UNAA family. Alumni members across the Southwestern region flocked to Ojo to honour their President. Both National Officers and Ota alumni flooded the reception.
Even the Deputy National President, Dr. Henry Ogunbamiwo and National Secretary Mr. Tony Chukwu, on behalf of the association, presented customized souvenir jotters shared amongst the delighted guests at the reception held at “Hatchery” inside LASU.
Tributes flowed warmly from across the UNAA leadership network:
”This milestone is a great testament to your hard work, resilience, and God’s grace. It is an inspiration to all of us in UNAA and a source of pride to our great Association.”— Maazi Chimaobi Nwabuko
”You have once again demonstrated that with determination and grace, every mountain can be conquered. Your accomplishment is not only a personal victory but also a source of inspiration and pride to all of us.”— UNAA National Publicity Secretary
Leading by Example
For the global Lions and Lionesses of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Queen Dr. Linda Agua-Onyekwelu’s achievement stands as a beacon of life-long learning. Balancing the high demands of heading a prestigious national alumni network while completing a doctoral degree in a critical discipline like Fisheries and Aquaculture underscores her extraordinary commitment to personal growth and sustainable development.
Reflecting on the joyous occasion, Queen Dr. Linda expressed her deep appreciation to all members, well-wishers, and guests:
“I am very grateful to you all for your prayers and support. May God bless us all and keep giving us reasons to celebrate.”
As Queen Dr. Linda Agua-Onyekwelu steps forward with a new academic title, the entire UNAA family celebrates a leader who continues to restore the dignity of man through intellect, service, and royalty.
Congratulations to Queen Dr. Linda Ugochi Agua-Onyekwelu, PhD!
