The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has officially commenced preparations for its 40th Anniversary celebration with the inauguration of a high-powered planning committee, marking the beginning of activities leading to the institution’s landmark celebration scheduled for January 2028.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Monday, July 27, 2026, reflects the university’s determination to organise a memorable event that will celebrate four decades of academic excellence, groundbreaking research, innovation and contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural and higher education sectors.
Speaking during the inauguration, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olusegun Idowu, congratulated members of the committee on their appointment and urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them by delivering an anniversary celebration that reflects the university’s achievements since its establishment.
He described the 40th anniversary as a significant milestone in the institution’s history and emphasised the need for careful planning to ensure that the celebration showcases FUNAAB’s remarkable journey, institutional growth and impact on national development over the past four decades.
The Vice-Chancellor paid special tribute to the Chairman of the Committee, Prof. Adeniyi Olayanju, acknowledging his distinguished career in academia and leadership, particularly his experience as the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of Landmark University. According to him, Prof. Olayanju’s wealth of administrative experience and proven track record provide strong assurance that the committee will successfully coordinate activities worthy of the university’s reputation.
Expressing confidence in the committee’s capacity, the Vice-Chancellor formally inaugurated the members and directed them to begin work immediately, noting that early planning would allow adequate time for consultation, coordination and execution of programmes leading up to the anniversary.
Responding on behalf of the committee, Prof. Adeniyi Olayanju expressed gratitude to the university management for entrusting the members with such an important responsibility.
He described the forthcoming anniversary as more than a ceremonial celebration, noting that it offers an opportunity to reflect on the institution’s legacy, celebrate its accomplishments and chart a new course for future development.
According to him, FUNAAB’s impressive performance in global university rankings, its expanding research profile and its contributions to agricultural innovation make the 40th anniversary a milestone deserving of national and international recognition.
The committee chairman also highlighted the diverse composition of the committee, explaining that its membership comprises experienced academics, administrators and professionals drawn from different units of the university. He expressed confidence that this diversity would enrich planning and ensure the successful delivery of activities that meet the expectations of the university community and stakeholders.
Prof. Olayanju assured the management that members were fully committed to carrying out their assignment with diligence, professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility, stressing that they viewed themselves not merely as committee members but as stakeholders dedicated to preserving and advancing FUNAAB’s legacy.
He further disclosed that the committee had already commenced strategic planning and would utilise both physical and virtual meetings to achieve its objectives within the stipulated timeframe. He noted that members had been given a clear mandate to accomplish key aspects of their assignment within the first three months of the committee’s inauguration.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior university officials, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Olawale Dairo, alongside other members of the university management.
The committee comprises representatives from various colleges and administrative units of the university. Members include Prof. Olufemi Ojo of the College of Veterinary Medicine (COLVET), Prof. Adegoke Bakare of the College of Food Science and Human Ecology (COLFHEC), Prof. Mutiu Busari of the College of Plant Science and Crop Production (COLPLANT), and Prof. Oluwakemi Irekhore of the Agricultural Media Resources and Extension Centre (AMREC).
Other members are Mrs. Oluwatoyin Dawodu from the SERVICOM Unit, Dr. Abdussobur Salaam of Senate and Admissions, Mr. Olurotimi Fasunwon from the Directorate of Information and Communication Technology Services (DICTS), Dr. Emmanuel Bankole of the Directorate of University Farms (DUFARMS), Mr. Olasunkanmi Olajide, Acting Head of the Directorate of Public Relations, Mrs. Oluremi Adeleke from the Directorate of Internal Audit, and Mr. Julius Sonde of the Bursary Department, while Mr. Olajide Oduyemi of Senate and Admissions will serve as Secretary to the Committee.
Founded in 1988, FUNAAB has grown into one of Nigeria’s leading specialised universities, renowned for excellence in agriculture, science, technology and innovation. Over the years, the institution has produced thousands of graduates, advanced agricultural research, forged strategic collaborations with national and international organisations and contributed significantly to food security and sustainable development.
With the inauguration of the anniversary planning committee, the university has taken the first formal step towards what is expected to be a comprehensive celebration of its rich history, achievements and vision for the future, as it prepares to commemorate four decades of excellence in teaching, research, community engagement and national development in January 2028.
