By DAYO ADESULU| Lagos, Nigeria | October 2025
The Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) is set to host the maiden edition of the Hassan Centre for Leadership and Governance Lecture and Fundraising Programme, an event expected to spark high-level conversations on democracy, leadership, and development in Africa.
The programme, organized in collaboration with Comrade Hassan Sunmonu and his family, will take place on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., inside the Yusuf Grillo Hall, YABATECH, Lagos.
Toyin Falola to Deliver Inaugural Lecture on African Democracy
The theme of the lecture, “Democracy and the Dynamics of Development in Africa,” will be delivered by Professor Toyin Falola, a globally acclaimed historian and cultural scholar.
Professor Falola, who holds the Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities at the University of Texas, Austin, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most distinguished voices on history, governance, and policy reform. His lecture is expected to provide fresh insights into how democratic institutions can drive sustainable development across the continent.
Comrade Hassan Sunmonu to Grace Event as Special Guest of Honour
Adding prestige to the occasion is Comrade Hassan Sunmonu, OON, the first President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and a proud alumnus of YABATECH. A celebrated labour leader and advocate for social justice, Sunmonu’s lifelong commitment to workers’ rights continues to inspire generations of leaders and reformers across Africa.
His participation symbolizes the fusion of academic excellence, leadership, and civic responsibility that the newly established Hassan Centre seeks to promote.
YABATECH Reaffirms Commitment to Leadership and Development
The event will be hosted by Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, Rector of YABATECH, with Professor Funsho Afolabi, Chairman of the Governing Council, serving as Chief Host.
Both expressed enthusiasm about bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, scholars, and students to discuss Africa’s democratic evolution and leadership challenges.
> “This lecture represents YABATECH’s continuing commitment to thought leadership and national development,” Dr. Abdul stated.
“The Hassan Centre will serve as a beacon for ethical, visionary, and people-centered leadership across Africa,” added Prof. Afolabi.
A Milestone for the Hassan Centre for Leadership and Governance
More than just a lecture, the event marks a significant milestone in the official establishment of the Hassan Centre for Leadership and Governance — envisioned as a hub for research, dialogue, and mentorship that fosters responsible leadership in Africa.
The centre aims to inspire ethical governance, promote institutional accountability, and equip the next generation of African leaders with tools for sustainable nation-building
Expectations High for October 23 Event
As YABATECH continues to strengthen its reputation as Nigeria’s premier institution for innovation and leadership training, the Yusuf Grillo Hall is set to become the meeting ground for ideas, experience, and vision — where stakeholders will chart new pathways for Africa’s democratic growth and sustainable development.
