By Emeka Oluka
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR has urged graduates of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), to embrace innovation, integrity, and commitment as they step into the real world and the dawn of a new chapter in their lives.
The President, who is also the Visitor to the University, made the charge while speaking at the 32nd Convocation Ceremony of FUNAAB, held on January 25, 2025, at the Oluwafemi Balogun Ceremonial Building.
Represented by the Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, the President emphasised the crucial role agriculture plays in Nigeria’s development, noting that it was the bedrock of the economy, the sustenance of the people, and the engine of rural communities.
The President commended the University for its achievements, including being ranked the Best University of Agriculture in Africa and 7th globally by the Times Higher Education World Universities Ranking. He encouraged the graduates to put their knowledge into practice, think outside the box, and harness technology to transform the agricultural sector.
“Remember, dear graduates, that the world you are entering is one yearning for solutions. Embrace the responsibility that comes with your education. Be the innovators, the leaders, and the changemakers who turn knowledge into action and nurture a brighter future for Nigerian agriculture,” he stressed.
The President also advised and prayed for the graduates, saying, “As you step out into the world, carrying the torch of knowledge and hope, may the lessons learned within these hallowed halls serve you well. May your talents flourish, your endeavours find success, and your contributions build a more prosperous and food-secured Nigeria for all.”
President Tinubu announced that his government would continue to support universities of agriculture with funds to commence mechanised farming.
The Visitor, therefore, appreciated the Chancellor, His Royal Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi, Otu V, the Obong of Calabar, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi, Odundun IV, Asoludero, members of the Governing Council and the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, as well as the Senate, staff and students for their sacrifices which have resulted in the success of the day. He also appreciated the graduating students of the University, parents, guardians, well-wishers, and dignitaries present at the Convocation Ceremony.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde appreciated the Visitor to the University, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, all affiliated Ministries, Agencies and Stakeholders for their support towards the development of FUNAAB.
Prof. Kehinde disclosed that the University has been engaging in various partnerships and collaborations to drive agricultural development and ensure food security.
From the Vice-Chancellor’s speech, it was obtained that the University graduated a total of 3,567 students with Bachelor’s Degrees in various disciplines, and for the Higher Degree, the University graduated a total of 30 Postgraduate Diplomas, 274 Masters Degrees and 136 Ph.Ds in various fields
