By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Emeka Oluka
The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) owes much of its distinguished reputation to the vision and leadership of Prof. Nurudeen Olorun-Nimbe Adedipe, its Foundation Vice-Chancellor. A highly revered Plant Scientist and academic trailblazer, Prof. Adedipe’s contributions laid the foundation for what would become the best University of Agriculture in Africa and 7th in the world, including one of Nigeria’s premier universities in agricultural education and research.
Born at Ikorodu on December 20, 1940, Prof. Adedipe’s life was defined by a commitment to academic excellence and a passion for agriculture. His early promise was evident, earning numerous scholarships and accolades that set the stage for an illustrious career. His secondary education was at the prestigious Ibadan Boys High School and he later pursued higher education at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, where he obtained a B.Sc. in Agriculture (Plant Science) in 1966 and later completed his Ph.D. in Environmental Plant Physiology in 1969. His studies equipped him with deep expertise, which he channelled into research and teaching upon returning to Nigeria.
Prof. Adedipe’s rise through the academic ranks was marked by significant milestones. As a Professor of Plant Physiology, he became the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry at the University of Ibadan (1978-1980). His leadership extended beyond the faculty, serving as the Chairman of the Committee of Deans, University of Ibadan, between 1979 and 1980. These roles cemented his reputation as a dynamic scholar and administrator.
Prof. Adedipe’s most transformative role came when he chaired the National Universities Commission (NUC) team that recommended restructuring the Federal Universities of Technology into specialised universities of agriculture. This strategic decision birthed the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) and the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (Now Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi), on January 1, 1988, followed later by the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. Prof. Adedipe was entrusted with the monumental task of steering the new University of Agriculture in Abeokuta as its First Substantive Vice-Chancellor.
Assuming office on January 8, 1988, Prof. Adedipe embarked on building the nascent University from the ground up. Initially, January 1 was celebrated as the University’s Foundation Day, until a Council decision in June 2010 rightly affirmed January 28, 1988, as the official foundation date, in line with the University’s legal establishment.
Under his stewardship, FUNAAB quickly became a beacon of excellence, attracting students and scholars from across Nigeria and beyond. Prof. Adedipe’s visionary leadership was anchored in the University’s Tripodal Mandate: Teaching, Research, and Extension Services. He recognised the importance of blending academic rigour with practical agricultural development, ensuring that FUNAAB not only educated but also contributed to Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Prof. Adedipe’s efforts bore fruit as he fostered a culture of innovation and excellence. He championed community outreach programmes and spearheaded research initiatives that addressed critical challenges in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. His tenure as Vice-Chancellor (1988-1995) laid a strong foundation for the University’s future growth and success.
Prof. Adedipe’s influence extended beyond FUNAAB. He was a respected member of several scientific organisations, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Ecological Society of Nigeria. His expertise was sought in various capacities, including as Chairman of the Governing Council of Lagos State Polytechnic (1985-1986) and as Chairman of the Presidential Visitation Panel to the then Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, in 2004.
In his later years, Prof. Adedipe played instrumental roles in the establishment of several private universities in Nigeria. He was the Chairman of the Planning Committees for Crescent University, Abeokuta (2003-2004), Fountain University, Osogbo (2004-2005), and Caleb University, Lagos (2005-2006). His contributions to higher education in Nigeria were pivotal in shaping the academic landscape.
Beyond his professional achievements, Prof. Adedipe was a devoted family man. He was married to Alhaja Silifat Olanrewaju Adedipe, and their union was blessed with three daughters and two sons. He found joy in spending time with his family and indulged in hobbies such as Table Tennis, Lawn Tennis, Landscaping, and Travelling. His love for sports and nature offered him a balance to the demanding life of an academic leader.
Prof. Nurudeen Olorun-Nimbe Adedipe’s passing on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, marked the end of an era, but his legacy endures. He was laid to rest the following day according to Islamic rites, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, dedication, and service. His contributions to FUNAAB and the broader field of agricultural education remain a guiding light for future generations.
As we reflect on the life of Prof. Adedipe, we celebrate a man who was not only a pioneer in Plant Science and education but also a visionary who believed in the transformative power of agriculture. His work has left an indelible mark on FUNAAB and the entire nation, inspiring the next wave of scholars, researchers, and agricultural leaders.
Prof. Adedipe would forever be remembered as the architect of a dream that blossomed into a reality, touching countless lives and reshaping the future of agricultural education in Nigeria.
For tributes, please mail deenade@me.com
Memorable pictures are attached below👇
