Last Updated on August 11, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide

Barely two months after the majority of the students have completed their 2nd Semester Examinations at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), business owners around the campus have expressed concerns over the decline in patronage, eagerly awaiting the start of the 2025/2026 Academic Session, which is set to begin at the end of the month. With the approval of the academic calendar, there is a renewed sense of excitement on campus.

In this interview with Olaoye Oyewole and Femi Dansu of FUNAAB Bulletin , some members of the University Community share their enthusiasm as the University prepares to resume academic activities, hopeful that the return of students would reinvigorate economic activities and improve livelihoods.

Speaking with the duo, a taxi driver, Mr. Mufutau Osilaja, lamented the downturn in patronage during the students’ absence, noting that the situation has made life more difficult for transport operators. “Ever since the students have been away, business has been dull, and our income is much lower compared to when the campus was active. We believe things will improve when academic activities resume,” he said.

Similarly, a food vendor beside the NASU Complex, Mrs. Funmilola Bamgbola, decried the low sales recorded in recent months. She explained that her livelihood depends largely on the food business and that the absence of students has worsened the situation. “I am tired because this is my only source of living. We really feel the students’ absence,” she stated.

For Mr. Segun Adeniji, popularly known as SP Ventures, the story is no different. He revealed that sales had dropped drastically since the break commenced. “About 80 percent of the FUNAAB environment is made up of students. When they are on campus, trading is completely different. Right now, sales are down, and we can’t wait for the school to resume so things can pick up again,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, the University Management has reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence and creating a conducive learning environment. With the massive rehabilitation and facelift projects currently ongoing, FUNAAB is poised to welcome students back to a better and more vibrant campus.

The collective sentiment within the community underscores the vital role students play in sustaining economic and social activities around the University, as stakeholders look forward to a rewarding new academic session.