In order to clear its registry of backlog, the Lagos State University (LASU) has extended the deadline for collection of certificates by its graduates by another two weeks.

Mr. Adekoya Martins, the Acting Head, Centre for Information, Press and Public Relations of the institution‎, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos that the extension was due to the impressive turnout by the graduates.

NAN reports that LASU management had on Sept. 30 said that 24,734 certificates of graduates, who left the institution over the last 10 years ago, were lying uncollected at its registry.

The University‎ said that any graduate who failed to collect the certificate before Oct. 21 will pay ‎N15,000 as fine before collection.

‎The university spokesman said the collection of the certificate before the deadline would be free.

“The N15,000 fine is to ensure that the graduates come forward to collect the backlog of certificates lying at the registry,’’ he said.

According to him, most of the certificates are not for recent graduates of two to three years ago, adding that those who failed to collect ”are mostly those who graduated 10 years and above ago,’’.

Martins said the new practice in the university is to send a message to graduates as soon as their certificates are ready.