Last Updated on August 26, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide

By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Raymond Osemene

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has received yet another remarkable gift of love and legacy as two of its distinguished alumni, Prof. Adeniyi Afolabi and Farmer Ayopo Somefun, officially endowed the University with the Ojogbon Orchard Park. The commissioning of the project, held on August 22, 2025, was described as a humanitarian gesture that would serve as a blessing for generations to come.

Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, expressed profound gratitude to the donors, noting that the initiative was both Godly and selfless. He explained that the Orchard Park transcends mere showmanship, stressing that it was carefully conceived to provide continuous nourishment and relief for students, particularly during demanding academic seasons such as examinations.

According to him, the project’s strategic location was intentionally chosen to ensure accessibility and visibility during major occasions like convocation ceremonies and other landmark University events. Prof. Kehinde added that the Orchard was more than a beautification effort; it is a model for sustainability, wellness, and shared responsibility within the University environment.

While acknowledging the challenges of sustaining such an initiative, including regulating access to prevent abuse, the Vice-Chancellor underscored the importance of reorienting the societal mindset. He expressed confidence that the long-term vision of the project would not only benefit today’s students but also stand as a legacy for future generations of FUNAABites.

In his remarks, Prof. Adeniyi Afolabi, one of the brains behind the project, described the Ojogbon Orchard Park as a deliberate and strategic intervention designed to beautify the campus and enrich the well-being of staff and students. He revealed that the park would offer both nourishment and inspiration as members of the University Community freely enjoy nature’s bounty.

Prof. Afolabi disclosed that about 1,000 fruit trees comprising 10 different varieties had been planted in the first phase, with another six to seven varieties planned for introduction in the coming year. He emphasised that the goal was to ensure fruits are available all year round, making the park a permanent source of refreshment and relaxation for the University Community.

Sharing the usage guidelines, he noted that while visitors are free to enjoy fruits within the park, they are advised not to take away more than two at a time. This, he explained, would sustain fairness and ensure availability for everyone. He also expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for his strong backing, assuring that subsequent phases would expand the orchard to accommodate more fruit varieties and strengthen its enduring legacy.

Speaking also, Farmer Somefun revealed plans to further expand the facility by installing concrete seats and tables to make it more comfortable for visitors. He stressed that the Ojogbon Orchard initiative, was a call to action for fellow alumni and well-meaning individuals to channel their resources towards life-impacting projects, even as he encouraged more graduates of FUNAAB to rise up and support their alma mater.

in his Goodwill Message, the President of the Alumni Association, Mr. Bolaji Gbadamosi, described the Vice-Chancellor as “the luckiest VC,” noting that the contributions of FUNAAB Alumni have become a cornerstone of the University’s progress. He highlighted the efforts of international alumni chapters, particularly those in the United Kingdom and the United States, which have consistently supported students through the provision of foodstuffs during examination periods, sponsorship of major projects, and over ₦20 million in scholarships for indigent students.

Mr. Gbadamosi lauded Prof. Afolabi and Farmer Ayopo Somefun for their visionary roles in initiating the Orchard Park, describing it as a symbol of innovation, generosity, and community service. He reaffirmed the Alumni Association’s unwavering commitment to the growth and development of the University, stressing that the spirit of giving back is the hallmark of true alumni engagement.

The colourful event was graced by top dignitaries including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Olawale Dairo; Bursar, Mr. Olukayode Osinuga; Deputy Dean, COLPHYS, Prof. Idowu Osinuga; Students’ Union Matron, Mrs. Olukemi Fashina; and other distinguished members of the University Community, who all commended the donors for their exemplary generosity and humanitarian spirit.