Wrong to assume all women sleep upward — Lafiaji-Okuneye, LASUED VC

Professor Bidemi Bilikis Lafiaji-Okuneye, the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), shares insights into the complexities of establishing and leading a new institution. She describes the role as one without existing tutelage, requiring her to navigate uncharted territory by drawing on her extensive experience within the university system.

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There is no tutelage; you can’t say this is how it is. And there is no understudying. You know this is a new university. One is not able to learn beforehand.

"There is no tutelage; you can’t say this is how it is. And there is no understudying. You know this is a new university. One is not able to learn beforehand," Lafiaji-Okuneye explained. She highlighted that while deputy vice-chancellors in established universities gain experience for the top role, she had to rely on her own learning and accumulated knowledge.

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How can an ordinary woman…?

Addressing the dynamics of gender in leadership, Lafiaji-Okuneye acknowledged that while her appointment as VC faced no gender-based pushback, issuing directives to some men has required extra effort. She observed that some men resist taking orders from a woman, often revealing their sentiments through their expressions. However, she firmly believes that merit, not gender, should determine who holds positions.

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But I think we have come to the age where anyone who merits anything should be given it. It should not be determined by gender.

"Without being immodest, I could authoritatively say that women are doing better in the areas of administration and leadership," Lafiaji-Okuneye stated. She elaborated that women are less prone to seduction and compromise compared to men, who she believes are more vulnerable to being influenced. This, she contends, makes women particularly well-suited for leadership roles requiring high discipline and integrity.

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And without being immodest, I could authoritatively say that women are doing better in the areas of administration and leadership.