Last Updated on January 26, 2026 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
… As the University Holds 33rd Convocation Ceremony Interdenominational Service
By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Femi Dansu
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, today, January 25, 2026, reaffirmed the commitment of the University Management to building, strengthening and sustaining a flourishing University that would endure across generations.
Prof. Kehinde stated this while addressing the Christian community during a special service held as part of activities marking the University’s ongoing 33rd Convocation Ceremony and the 38th Founder’s Day. He noted that the milestones being celebrated were not coincidental but a call to greater responsibility, stewardship and sustained growth.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, “For this University to flourish and continue flourishing, we must do the needful. We must wisely deploy and trade with the resources God has entrusted to us so that FUNAAB will continue on the path of progress He has ordained.” He cautioned against complacency, stressing that the rising visibility and achievements should inspire a renewed commitment rather than a sense of comfort.
Prof. Kehinde observed that the University was presently flourishing in tangible and measurable ways, citing improvements in infrastructure, financial stability and material development. He, however, emphasised that sustaining these gains required collective effort, discipline and visionary leadership at all levels.
Addressing staff and leaders across Colleges, Institutes, Directorates, Departments and Units, the Vice-Chancellor charged them to embrace the shared responsibility of preserving the University’s growing reputation. “This flourishing must be sustained in such a way that even when we retire, we can return with pride and say we were part of a legacy that endured,” he said.
He expressed deep appreciation to the Academic and Non-Teaching staff, as well as staff of FUNAAB Staff School and the FUNAAB International School, for their dedication. “You have kept the flag of this University flying. Management sincerely appreciates your commitment and sacrifice,” he added.
Addressing the Graduating students, the Vice-Chancellor congratulated them on the successful completion of their academic programmes and offered prayers for divine guidance, open doors and a prosperous future. Drawing on his personal academic journey, he encouraged the graduates to remain teachable, disciplined, and attentive to mentorship and divine direction, noting that life’s path may not always be clear at the outset, but that obedience, diligence, and right counsel are vital for long-term success.
Earlier in his sermon titled “Building and Sustaining a Flourishing Institution,” the University Chaplain, Prof. Christian Ikeobi, charged the University Community to embrace righteousness as the foundation for sustained growth. Quoting scriptures, including 1 Corinthians 1:30, he explained that righteousness is rooted in the finished work of Jesus Christ and is essential for true flourishing.
Prof. Ikeobi described flourishing as the capacity to glow, grow and develop in a healthy and enduring manner. He identified four critical factors for building and sustaining a flourishing institution: the God factor, Godly and visionary leadership, the right kind of knowledge and righteous, committed stakeholders.
He stressed that leaders must possess knowledge inspired by God, referencing Genesis 41:14–16, and added that institutional success depends not only on leadership but also on the commitment and righteousness of followers, as highlighted in Genesis 41:33–34 and Proverbs 29:2.
The Chaplain concluded by praying for the continued growth of FUNAAB and the successful completion of activities lined up for the remaining days of the 33rd Convocation Ceremony.
