In a groundbreaking move to bolster agricultural development, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, declared that “government has no business in business” during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the FUNAAB Alumni Association.
This partnership aims to establish an impressive 800-hectare farmland on the university campus, a significant step towards promoting innovation in agriculture.
At the MoU signing ceremony held today, October 17, 2024, Prof. Kehinde acknowledged the pivotal role played by the immediate past Global President of the Alumni Association, Dr. Segun Ogundiran, in initiating this essential partnership.
He expressed his satisfaction that this vision has now materialized, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in advancing agricultural practices.
Referencing a line from the University Anthem, “A School of Farming, Science, and Skills,” Prof. Kehinde stressed the urgency of prioritizing agriculture, stating, “My administration is bringing agriculture to the forefront, leveraging partnerships such as this one to expand farming activities.”
He pointed out the pressing economic challenges facing Nigeria, which have necessitated better utilization of the university’s vast land resources.
Currently, only 10 percent of FUNAAB’s extensive 10,000-hectare land is being utilized, prompting the university to seek out Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to engage in large-scale commercial agriculture. Prof. Kehinde, who is a Fellow of the Genetics Society of Nigeria (FGSN), noted that the new farmland project would not only enhance agricultural output but also serve as a vital training ground for both alumni and current students, thus empowering them and enhancing the Association’s capacity to contribute to the university’s growth.
The Vice-Chancellor commended the Alumni Association for its continuous support in paying school charges for indigent students and providing food supplies during examinations. He called for further contributions, particularly in establishing an emergency relief fund to assist students with urgent medical needs.
In his address, the Global President of the FUNAAB Alumni Association, Mr. Bolaji Gbadamosi, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prof. Kehinde for his unwavering support. He announced the Association’s commitment to invest nearly ₦20 million to cover school charges for students in the 2024/2025 Academic Session. He also thanked the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, HRM Oba Abdur-Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi, Odundun IV, for recognizing the efforts of the Association.
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by a host of distinguished guests, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Kola Adebayo; Deputy Registrar II, Mr. Moses Ayanda; and the University Legal Officer, Mrs. Olanrewaju Tanimowo. The entourage of the Global President featured notable figures such as Alh. Sikiru Salako, Global Vice President I; Mr. Femi Ajayi, Global Secretary; and Mrs. Tolulope Akinola, Global Director of Socials. Other attendees included Dr. Segun Ogundiran, Immediate Past President; Mr. Biodun Ajayi, Director of Alumni Venture; and Dr. Funmilola Ilori, Chairperson of the MoU Committee.
This collaboration stands as a testament to FUNAAB’s commitment to agricultural excellence and its dedication to nurturing future leaders in the field.
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