The Paramount Ruler and Agura of Gbagura kingdom , HRM Sabur Babajide Bakre, Jamolu II, has expressed satisfaction with the steady development of the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta saying he is very proud of the institution’s landmark achievements within a short period of time.
Oba Bakre stated this even as he commended the University Management for making judicious use of the expanse of land given to them by the Gbagura Kingdom for the establishment of the University.
Speaking during his Royal Visit to the University which is in his domain, the Agura expressed happiness for the visit disclosing that he is impressed with the FUNAAB’s achievements and development so far.
The monarch who described the Acting Vice-Chancellor as a pride of Gbagura Kingdom said with his track record within and outside the University, he is capable of raising the bar of the University to the next level.
Flanked by Royal Fathers, Baales and High Chiefs in his domain, the 9th Agura prayed for peace and stability in the University and its environment, stressing that the visit will bring more goodwill to the University.
Earlier in his Welcome Address, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof Babatunde Kehinde appreciated the highly revered Monarch and his Chiefs for finding time out to visit the University, stating that he was glad when he was informed of the monarch’s decision to see the state of the University.
He revealed that FUNAAB has been performing excellently in all aspects, noting that the Management is happy to be associated with the royal father and Gbagura Land in general.
According to him, “we have stood out and we have just been ranked as one of the best Universities in the world. Also out of 200 Universities in Nigeria we were ranked 9th and we have continued to record more success stories. The glory of God has always reflected on FUNAAB and the University has continued to shine”, he added.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor further stated that, despite the challenges the University has been faced with, it has ensured that its impact as a University of Agriculture has been felt all around by ensuring a robust town and gown relationship.
He hinted that the Agura’s visit will spur the Management to do more for the progress of the University Community and the benefits of mankind.
Meanwhile, the Bashorun of Gbagura and Balogun of Idere Land, Chief Festus Kehinde in his Remarks charged the Management to continue to promote the University’s home made customized products in order to reach bigger markets, stating that they would continue to support the progress of the University.
He commended the University for its academic excellence and for seeing to the welfare of the neighbouring communities and villages, adding that the Agura is proud of the existing town and gown relationship.
Also, the Registrar, Dr Bola Adekola thanked the Agura for his love for the University which according to him has contributed to the progress of the institution, stressing that Agura land has been homely and beneficial to all and sundry.
Dr Adekola commended the monarch for promoting Yoruba culture, noting that the traditional display of the culture by his chiefs and subjects has shown that he upholds the heritage of the Yorubas.
