By Olasunkanmi Olajide
The Former Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Oluwafemi Olaiya Balogun, on October 19, 2024, hosted a dinner to honour the newly-appointed Bursar, Mr. Olukayode Osinuga, in celebration of his appointment as the Substantive Bursar of the University.
The Dinner, which also coincided with Prof. Balogun’s birthday, was specially organised by Prof. Balogun’s family to celebrate Mr. Osinuga’s perseverance, contentment, and patience. Reflecting on their shared history, Prof. Balogun recounted how Mr. Osinuga, as Chief Accountant during his tenure as the 4th Substantive Vice-Chancellor from 2007 to 2012, diligently served the University. He also commended Mr. Osinuga’s dedication, noting that even while on Sabbatical Leave at the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), Ondo State, he remained committed to FUNAAB’s responsibilities.
Widely regarded as the “Architect of Modern FUNAAB,” Prof. Balogun concluded by praying for Mr. Osinuga’s successful tenure.
In his Goodwill Message, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, described Mr. Osinuga as an astute and hardworking Accountant, stating that he performed excellently to the admiration of the interviewers during the interview process for the Bursar position.
Prof. Kehinde, who is the 7th Substantive Vice-Chancellor of FUNAAB, emphasised that Mr. Osinuga’s appointment was based on merit as he performed brilliantly during the rigorous interview exercise. He added that the Bursar had previously served as Ag. Bursar in 2013 and 2023 before his recent appointment as the Substantive Bursar.
Similarly, the 6th Substantive Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Felix Kolawole Salako, lauded Mr. Osinuga for his unwavering support during his tenure as Vice-Chancellor, despite the Sabbatical Leave. He likened Mr. Osinuga’s journey to a passage from Psalm 126 in the Bible, suggesting that his time in Ondo was preparation for his current role as Bursar. Prof. Salako also paid tribute to Prof. Balogun, acknowledging him as a great leader who mentored many within the University Community.
Other Goodwill Messages were delivered by former Bursar, Mr. Moses Ilesanmi; Chairman of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU-FUNAAB), Com. Olurotimi Fasunwon, and Omoba Olufemi Adeniji, among others.
Responding, the honouree, Mr. Osinuga, referenced 1 Chronicles 12:6, citing hard work and loyalty as his guiding principles.
He reflected on his early career days at Ogun State Television (OGTV), where his dedication earned him two awards. He shared his belief that his career path, which began in 1998 when he joined FUNAAB as Accountant I, had always been destined to lead him to the role of Bursar by prophecies from Top University officials.
He expressed deep gratitude to Prof. Balogun and his family for organising the event and thanked all who attended, wishing them continued celebrations in their own lives.
Meanwhile, the Toast and the Vote of Thanks were given by the Ag. Director, Directorate of University Farms (DUFARMS), Dr. Emmanuel Bankole and the Deputy Registrar I, Senate & Admissions, Dr. Abdussobur Salaam, respectively.
Among the distinguished guests at the occasion were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development, Prof. Kola Adebayo; Registrar-Designate, Dr. Titus Adeniyi and the University Librarian, Prof. Abayomi Owolabi.
The Dinner was also graced by several distinguished guests, including Elder Joju Fadairo and his wife; Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUTECH), Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya; Provost, Federal College of Education (FCE), Osiele, Dr. Rafiu Soyele and his wife; former Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Prof. Bisi Balogun; former University Librarian, Dr. Mulikat Salaam; and former University Librarian, Dr. Abayomi Agboola, among several others from academia and the industry.
