The Lagos State University (LASU) Law Clinic has undergone a major transformation following the intervention of a group of philanthropists who refurbished the facility to enhance practical legal training for students.

  The project, carried out in honour of retired Supreme Court Justice, George Adesola Oguntade, was initiated by Olugbenga Ajala and supported by friends and associates committed to improving legal education.

  Speaking on behalf of the donors, Afolakemi Ogunde said the initiative was inspired by Ajala’s desire to honour Oguntade, whom he described as a mentor and father figure, while also addressing the poor condition of the Law Clinic.

  She explained that Ajala mobilised support from like-minded individuals after learning about the state of the facility, leading to its eventual rehabilitation.

  Ogunde noted that the donors had previously undertaken a similar intervention at the University of Lagos, where they renovated an annex lecture hall in honour of the retired jurist, before extending the gesture to LASU, where Oguntade served as Chancellor in 2015.

“For all of us, this was about giving back, creating impact and ensuring that students have an environment that reflects the quality of education and professional preparation we want for them,” she said.

  According to her, an assessment of the Law Clinic revealed that several facilities had become outdated, dilapidated and non-functional, necessitating a comprehensive upgrade.

  She said the donors, alongside their contractor, Tosin Adeoye, inspected the facility to determine the scope of work required.
“It became clear that the environment did not provide the kind of practical learning experience that law students deserve, particularly in a space designed to prepare them for legal practice,” she added.

  Ogunde stated that the renovation focused on functionality and practical training, with emphasis on clinical learning, simulations and professional skills development rather than mere aesthetics.
She expressed optimism that the upgraded facility would produce better-equipped graduates capable of translating theoretical knowledge into practice.

  “Our hope is that students will leave this facility with stronger practical skills, greater confidence and a deeper understanding of the legal profession,” she said, urging the university community to maintain the facility.

  The President of the LASU Law Students’ Society, Emmanuel Sewanu, described the intervention as a significant boost to practical legal education.
He said the renovation had restored the Law Clinic to its core purpose, noting that it was previously used for multiple activities beyond clinical training.

  Sewanu explained that the facility would now enable senior students to establish Students’ Chambers under the supervision of lecturers and begin hands-on advocacy training.

  “The Law Clinic will bridge the gap between learning the law and practising it. It will expose students to real-life legal issues while helping us develop essential skills,” he said.

  A 400-level law student, Mariam Rasheed, said the renovation had greatly improved the learning environment, noting that the facility previously suffered from poor ventilation, damaged furniture and general deterioration.

  She said the upgraded clinic would enhance moot court sessions and other academic engagements.
Similarly, a 300-level student, Israel Omodudu, commended the installation of modern learning tools, including a projector and lectern, which he said would improve teaching and learning.

  He, however, called for additional facilities such as air conditioning to further enhance the learning environment.
The commemorative plaque at the facility describes the project as a tribute to Justice Oguntade, a former Justice of the Supreme Court and past Chancellor of LASU. It also states that the project was dedicated by the Lagos State Head of Service, Olabode Agoro, in July 2026.

  Among the donors are Olugbenga Olusanya Ajala, Atinuke Abanishe-Ajala, Dayo Bush-Alebiosu, Michael Ojomo, Mustapha Ajenifuja, Afolakemi Ogunde, Harrison Agboifoh, Olukayode Adegbola, Kingsley Okpala, Olufemi Oyewole (SAN), Omotayo Oyewole, Tosin Adeoye, Evaristus Bassey, Adetokunbo Davies, Mobolaji Onimole and Debola Elias.

  The refurbished Law Clinic is expected to strengthen hands-on legal training at LASU by providing students with opportunities to engage real-life legal issues while developing advocacy, research and professional ethics skills.