The University of Lagos once again cemented its reputation as a citadel of creativity and youth excellence as it hosted the much-anticipated Mr & Miss UNILAG 2025 pageant, the fourth edition of the flagship event since its inception in 2022.
Held on Friday, August 1, 2025, at the Indoor Sports Auditorium of the University Sports Centre, the event was a spectacular celebration of not just beauty, but also intellect, talent, culture, charisma, and the indomitable spirit that defines UNILAG students. Put together by the Students’ Affairs Division, the show has become a campus tradition and this year’s edition delivered an unforgettable experience that brought the entire university community together..
The event was graced by senior members of the university administration, including the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Professor Musa Adebayo Obalola, and the Chairperson of the Organizing Committee and Deputy Dean (I), Dr. Ogunleye, along with other dedicated staff of the division.
Also in attendance were prominent sponsors, invited guests, and other university dignitaries, all of whom lauded the students’ display of brilliance and professionalism.
A total of thirty-four (34) contestants competed fiercely in both male and female categories, representing diverse faculties and departments across the university. From graceful runway walks to electrifying talent displays, and from rich cultural presentations to thought-provoking Question & Answer sessions, each round revealed the poise, confidence, and depth of the young and sassy-looking contestants.
Meet the Winners
But the highlight of the evening came in the grand finale; a moment that stirred pride, cheers, and even a few tears.
After a night of rigorous judgment and captivating performances that stretched into the early hours of Saturday, August 2, John Onyinkansola Rebecca, a 100-level student from the Department of Taxation, emerged as Miss UNILAG 2025, stunning the judges and audience alike with her charm, intellect, and magnetic stage presence. She was closely followed by Sylla Diarra Mame, a 200-level student from the Department of Botany, who claimed the position of 1st Runner-up, and Egbuzobi Doreen Onyinyechi, a 300-level student from the Department of Theatre Arts, Faculty of Creative Arts, who came in as 2nd Runner-up.
In the male category, the crowd roared in approval as Kadiri Omotade, a 300-level student from the Department of Building, was announced Mr UNILAG 2025, following a fierce competition among talented and dashing young men. The runners-up in the male category were Salau Samuel Similoluwa, a 100-level contestant from the Faculty of Creative Arts, as 1st Runner-up, while Adeyehun Temitope, a 200-level student from the Department of Finance came third.
The night was not only about competition but also a full-blown cultural carnival, complete with Afrobeats performances, stand-up comedy, dance battles, and crowd-interactive games. The energy in the auditorium was electric, and the audience, made up of students, alumni, influencers, and lovers of campus entertainment, reveled in every moment.
Before the winners were announced, Chairperson of the LOC, Dr. Ogunleye took a moment to address the audience, offering heartfelt words on the journey that brought the contestants to this stage.
Her words “ The amount of work, passion, and discipline these young men and women have shown since the beginning of their camping is commendable. They have not disappointed us. Anyone who emerges a winner tonight will be a true ambassador of the University of Lagos, but I boldly state that all of them here tonight are already winners. We are immensely proud of what they’ve become through this process.”
She also extended her appreciation to the dedicated team of staff, partners, and sponsors who made the event a resounding success.
As the event came to a close, with confetti filling the air and music echoing through the auditorium, the new Mr and Miss UNILAG stood on stage radiant, proud, and ready to take on a year of social, cultural, and ambassadorial duties. They will represent the university at various engagements, carrying the UNILAG torch with elegance and purpose.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Favour Megwara / Tobi Gisanrin (UNILAG Student Volunteers)
