By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Lydia Adebayo
On August 21, 2024, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) held a Commendation Service in honour of the departed Prof. Olufemi Sunday Onifade of the Department of Pasture and Range Management (PRM), College of Animal Science and Livestock Production (COLANIM).
During the Service, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, paid tribute to Prof. Onifade, describing him as a “gentle giant” and a man of great integrity.
Prof. Kehinde noted that the late Prof. Onifade had a profound impact on many lives and was a source of pride to his family and the wider community.
Photo credit: Tofunmi Adebayo.
Reflecting on the late Professor’s life, he expressed deep emotion, revealing that the departed had been looking forward to his retirement next year. He extended heartfelt words of comfort and strength to the bereaved family.
Delivering an exhortation titled, “Death: A Must Pick-Up Call,” the Head of Department of Animal Production and Health (APH), Prof. Lawrence Egbeyale, while drawing from Hebrews 9:27, noted that although it might appear that Prof. Onifade had passed away, he was merely “sleeping,” having lived a life of deep faith and service to God. “This exhortation is not for Prof. Onifade, but for us, the living,” he stated, urging the audience to reflect on the inevitability of death and the importance of living with humility and purpose.
He stressed the need for genuine Christian living, cautioning against the danger of professing Christianity without embodying its true essence.
In his tribute, the Dean of COLANIM, Prof. Abimbola Oso, described the late Prof. Onifade as a gentle and peaceful man who served as a mentor and father figure to many within the College.
He highlighted Prof. Onifade’s significant contributions to local and international journals, asserting that “a researcher does not die” and that his scholarly work would continue to be referenced for years to come.
Similarly, Dr. Peter Dele, Head of the PRM Department, remembered Prof. Onifade as a fatherly figure, an academic grandfather, and a pillar of wisdom and knowledge. He stated that Prof. Onifade was a man of few words but profound actions, who has left an indelible mark on the Department and the University.
Dr. Nancy Okorie, Vice-Chairperson of the ASUU-UNAAB Chapter, spoke of Prof. Onifade’s unwavering commitment to student welfare and development.
She highlighted the positive impact he had on his students, both professionally and personally, noting that many were inspired by his guidance and support.
Tributes also came from other notable dignitaries, including Prof. Jimoh Olanite of the Society for Grassland Research and Development in Nigeria (SOGREDEN); Barrister Adebayo Onifade, a family representative; Prof. Goke Bodunde, Former Dean of the College of Plant Science and Crop Production (COLPLANT); and Dr. Tunde Amole, a former student. Each shared heartfelt memories of Prof. Onifade’s lasting legacy in academia and beyond.
