By Olasunkanmi Olajide, Femi Dansu & Ayobami Oyinloye
The Alumni Association of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, on January 11, 2025, held its 27th Annual Convention and 26th Annual Annual Lecture at the Red Chamber, signifying the successful culmination of a remarkable week-long event.
Held under the theme “Rejuvenation and Building Prosperous Alumni in the Heart of National Economy Stagflation,” the convention attracted a significant turnout of members.
Welcoming the alumni members to the University, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, highlighted notable achievements recorded by FUNAAB over the past year. He proudly shared that the Times Higher Education ranking named FUNAAB as the Best University of Agriculture in Africa and the 7th Best Globally in its category.
The Vice-Chancellor also disclosed that FUNAAB now offers 51 fully accredited academic programmes and has expanded access to education, with an enrollment of over 23,000 students.
On research advancements, Prof. Kehinde spotlighted groundbreaking projects like the Smart Soil Project led by Prof. Mutiu Busari and the Bio-Fortification of Tomatoes with Iodine, among others underscoring the University’s dedication to innovation and collaboration to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Delivering the Convention Lecture titled, “The Trajectory of Building an Agro-Prosperous and Zero Hunger Nation: Navigating The Paradox of Farm Insecurity and Emerging Threats,” Hon. Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka, Member of the House of Representatives for Yewa North/Imeko-Afon Constituency, highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to embrace a bold, comprehensive, and sustained agricultural revolution.
Hon. Isiaka emphasised the importance of rural security, climate adaptation, and inclusive policies, urging the government, private sector, and civil society to unite in driving agro-prosperity and ensuring food security for all Nigerians. He reiterated that strategic actions, unwavering dedication, and a shared vision are critical for transforming the nation’s agricultural landscape and achieving zero hunger.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, encouraged alumni to actively engage in policy discussions and initiatives that support the agricultural sector, further strengthening their alma mater’s legacy.
The Global President of the FUNAAB Alumni Association, Mr. Bolaji Gbadamosi, provided updates on the Association’s activities, including acquiring land for an alumni farm, interventions in tuition fees for indigent students, and post-graduate summits.
Mr. Gbadamosi, also a member of the University’s Governing Council, expressed profound gratitude to sponsors and branches for their steadfast backing, with special appreciation extended to the USA Branch and Bishop (Dr.) Felix Owolabi Foundation, Dr. Abdulfattah Durojaye’s Kind Heart Foundation, and Engr. Olusina and Prof. Subuola Fasoyiro’s Grace Reachfill Development Foundation, for their generosity and commitment to student welfare.
Mr. Gbadamosi called for a collective resolve to build a stronger and more vibrant alumni association, ensuring continued impact in education and agriculture.
Highpoint was the presentation of Appreciation and Humanitarian Awards to dignitaries and some members of the Alumni Association.
The convention ended on a high note with thanksgiving and a renewed commitment to advancing the goals of the FUNAAB Alumni Association.
Pictures are attached below 👇
Credit: Tofunmi Adebayo
