… As FUNAAB Holds 31st Convocation Interdenominational Service
By Emeka Oluka & Femi Dansu
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde has given thanks and praises to God for where He started with the University, where FUNAAB is currently, and where He is taking the University.
The Vice-Chancellor made the declaration of thanksgiving today at the Interdenominational Church Service held at the University Chapel of Grace to commemorate the 31st Convocation Ceremony.
According to Prof. Kehinde, he expressed his profound gratitude to God for the journey thus far, dwelling on the theme of gratitude.
He commended the dedication of all the staff and the Chaplain of the Chapel, acknowledging their significant contributions.
Addressing the students, Prof. Kehinde appreciated them for fostering a peaceful environment on campus. He extended his appreciation to all stakeholders, attributing the University’s development to their collective efforts.
In his brief exhortation from the Holy Scriptures (Mark 1:32-38), Prof. Kehinde drew parallels between the University and the reported healing miracles of Jesus, emphasising the recognition FUNAAB has received nationally and internationally.
Expressing relief, he thanked God for the timely execution of Convocation Ceremonies in FUNAAB, contrasting it with the challenges faced by other universities.
Prof. Kehinde concluded by affirming the students as the backbone of FUNAAB and encouraged everyone to continue exploring new frontiers.
Earlier, the Chaplain of the Chapel of Grace, Prof. Christian Ikeobi, delivered a sermon titled “Be Ye Thankful” Drawing inspiration from Luke 17:11 and Colossians 3:15-17, he urged staff members to embody the rules for holy living and allow the peace of God to richly dwell in their hearts.
Reflecting on the University’s humble beginnings at the mini campus in Isale-Igbein, Prof. Ikeobi expressed gratitude for the remarkable growth, recounting the days when students engaged in research projects along Kobape-Siun road.
He stressed the importance of immediate gratitude, drawing parallels with the story of the Chief Cupbearer in Genesis 40:23.
Concluding his sermon, Prof. Ikeobi asserted that a grateful heart attracts more blessings, citing the example of Jesus Christ rewarding the one leper who returned to express gratitude.
He encouraged the University Community to show appreciation to God through a life dedicated to service and by extending help to the less privileged.
The event was graced by the presence of key University figures, including the wife of the Vice-Chancellor and Dean, College of Biosciences, Prof. Iyabode Kehinde; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development, Prof. Kola Adebayo; Ag. Registrar, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Dawodu; Ag. Bursar, Mr. Olukayode Osinuga, and the University Librarian, Dr. Abayomi Owolabi, among other distinguished guests such as Deans and Directors, including Heads of Departments and Units in the University.
Meanwhile, the 31st Convocation Ceremony would not only celebrate academic achievements but also serve as a moment of reflection on the University’s astronomical growth and the spirit of gratitude that continues to guide its path.
