The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba (Dr.) Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, has described the outgoing Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Professor Oluwafemi Olaiya Balogun, as a visionary leader and an administrator par excellence.
Speaking with FUNAAB Bulletin in his palace, Oba Gbadebo observed that the University had grown in leap and bounds over the past five years because it has been blessed with a focused Chief Executive Officer; “a goal-getter, who has the best interest of the University, dear to his heart”.
The monarch, who is a Honorary Awardee of the University, lauded the administrative acumen of Professor Balogun which he noted had won the University, various international recognitions and grants. Oba Gbadebo commended the dedication and commitment of Professor Balogun, as an illustrious son of Egba, praising him for piloting the University
to the second position amongst Universities in Nigeria.
According to him, “Professor Balogun has done us proud as an Egba son. Because for the first time, an Egba son was made the Vice-Chancellor of the University and we are very proud of his achievements”.
He added that “the ambience of the University, as a citadel of learning is unparalleled while the rapport amongst members of staff is exemplary”.
The Alake of Egbaland revealed that the Egba Kingdom had decided to honour the Vice-Chancellor with a chieftaincy title, in recognition of his contributions to knowledge and the development of the agricultural sector.
Oba Gbadebo acknowledged the transformational achievements recorded during the tenure of Professor Balogun as he urged his successor, Professor Olusola Oyewole to build on his legacy.
“It is good to lay a good foundation, which is what Professor Balogun has done. Whoever is coming should just oil the system, add few initiatives here and there and the University will be the best, not 2nd best again, in this country”, he added.

Alake of Egbaland, Oba (Dr.) Adedotun Gbadebo