… As the College Honours immediate past VC, others
By Joy Adeyiga & Temiloluwa Osinuga
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, has congratulated the heroes of the College of Plant Science and Crop Production (COLPLANT) for their significant contributions to the growth and development of both the College and the University, encouraging current staff to learn from these exemplary individuals.
The commendation was given today, July 30, 2024, at the Dean’s Reception during the COLPLANT’s celebration of Heroes Day, which featured a special event and the launch of a book titled “Contemporary Issues in University Administration and Research: A Festschrift in honour of the Immediate Past Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Felix Kolawole Salako.”
Prof. Kehinde lauded COLPLANT’s dedication to excellence and teamwork, noting that the celebration marked a significant milestone in the College’s history.
Themed “System Re-thinking: Celebration of COLPLANT Heroes,” the event also included the unveiling of commemorative marble portraits of the heroes and the public presentation of the Journal of Plant Science and Crop Production.
As a former Dean of the College, Prof. Kehinde praised the College as “first among equals,” highlighting the pivotal role it played in accommodating other colleges when the University relocated to Alabata.
He urged current staff to draw inspiration from their predecessors to avoid regrettable decisions.
Earlier in his Welcome Remarks, the outgoing Dean of COLPLANT, Prof. Jonathan Atungwu, described the College as the University’s cornerstone, applauding its commitment to excellence.
He acknowledged the pioneer members for their mentorship and efforts in creating a conducive work environment, emphasising that Heroes Day was to honour the foundation they laid, significantly contributing to the University’s success.
Prof. Atungwu highlighted the importance of the book launch in honour of Prof. Salako for his remarkable contributions to infrastructure and human capital development, including leadership at the University.
Responding, Prof. Salako expressed his gratitude to the College and the organising committee for the honour. He thanked God for his achievements and acknowledged the support of senior colleagues like Prof. Omolayo Ariyo, former Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development, who was also present, Prof. Abayomi Ojanugba and Prof. Faucett Olasantan,
Prof. Salako commended the initiative to honour those who have served meritoriously, believing it would motivate others to work harder.
He appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for ensuring project continuity and driving the University’s development.
Reflecting on his tenure, he shared that wisdom helped him overcome challenges and urged University unions to seek the truth before arriving at conclusions. He also called for an end to actions that undermine others.
The event was graced by the incoming Dean of COLPLANT, Prof. Bolarinwa Senjobi; Emeritus Prof. Olufunmilayo Adebambo; former Vice-Chancellor, Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, Prof. Steve Afolami and his wife, Prof. Carolyn Afolami; Dean, Student Affairs, Prof. Festus Adeosun; Director, Agricultural Media Resources and Extension Centre (AMREC), Prof. Jacob Olaoye, and the Director, Directorate of Research, Innovations, and Partnerships (DRIP), Prof. Mutiu Busari.
Others were the Chairman, Timetable and Examination Committee (TIMTEC), Prof. Pius Dada; Deputy Dean, Student Affairs, Prof. Oluseyi Ojekunle; Prof. Akin Popoola; Chairman, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU-FUNAAB Branch, Mr. Olurotimi Fasunwon; Global President, FUNAAB Alumni Association, Mr. Bolaji Gbadamosi and the representatives of the Chairman, National Association of Academic Technologists NAAT-FUNAAB Branch, and many other distinguished guests within and outside the University.
Highpoints were presentation of gifts to deserving individuals, including, a retiree, and a staff who was recognised for her hard work and dedication to the College, as well as unveiling of marble portraits of the heroes, including a minute silence for the departed heroes of the College.
Meanwhile, Heroes Day was a testament to COLPLANT’s values of excellence, teamwork, and community spirit, celebrating the College’s achievements and paying tribute to those who have made a positive impact.
