Last Updated on December 22, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide

… Prof. Olusiiji Sowande Steps In

By Femi Dansu

The Postgraduate School, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), held a formal handover ceremony today, December 5, 2025, marking the smooth transition of leadership from the former Dean, Prof. Gboyega Adebayo, to the newly appointed Dean, Prof. Olusiji Sowande.

Prof. Adebayo concluded a distinguished six-year tenure, comprising three years as Deputy Dean, three years as Dean, and a brief period as Ag. Dean. In his remarks, he expressed profound satisfaction, noting, “The most important thing is that I am leaving the Postgraduate School better than I met it; that is a goal everyone should aspire to.” Describing the School as a “Ministry of Works,” he encouraged staff to sustain their dedication and assured them that forthcoming changes would advance the School’s collective progress. He also expressed strong confidence in his successor, citing Prof. Sowande’s extensive administrative experience, including two terms as a Dean and previous service on the University Governing Council, among others.

In his acceptance address, the new Dean, Prof. Olusiji Sowande, expressed his appreciation, while affirming his readiness to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor. Highlighting a vision anchored on excellence, he outlined a comprehensive plan to reposition the School, with divine guidance and the support of the Vice-Chancellor and staff. A major thrust of his agenda was the full digitalisation of the School’s operations to enhance efficiency.

Prof. Sowande further pledged to strengthen collaboration with Colleges, noting that as an alumnus of the School, having earned both his M.Sc. and PhD Degrees from FUNAAB, he reaffirmed his commitment to upscaling the high performance and quality output of the School. The ceremony was well attended by staff members of the School.