FUNAAB Alumnus Wins 2026 Emerging Leader Alumni Award for Conservation Excellence

A 2016 alumnus of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Mr. Samuel Bamidele, has won the 2026 Emerging Leader Alumni Award from the Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS), USA, in recognition of his contributions to conservation leadership, science and professional service.

Mr. Bamidele holds a Bachelor of Agriculture (B.Agric.) degree in Soil Science and Land Management from FUNAAB, which he obtained in 2017. He subsequently earned a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Plant and Soil Sciences from the University of Delaware, United States, in 2024.

The prestigious award recognises alumni of the SWCS Emerging Leaders Programme who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to conservation leadership and continued engagement with the Society’s mission.

Mr. Bamidele has distinguished himself through his active service on the SWCS Awards and Scholarships Committee, where he contributes to the assessment of award and scholarship applications and participates in activities designed to promote excellence within the conservation profession.

He has also served on the SWCS Annual Conference Programme Planning Committee, supporting the organisation of the Society’s annual conference and collaborating with local partners.

In addition, he has served as an abstract reviewer for conference poster presentations, evaluating research submissions focused on conservation models, innovative tools and emerging technologies.

Professionally, Mr. Bamidele serves as a Project Soil Scientist and Field Coordinator with an environmental consulting company in the United States. In the role, he applies his expertise in soil science, land management, soil health, conservation and the sustainable utilisation of natural resources.

His achievements reflect the academic foundation he acquired at FUNAAB, as well as the advanced training and professional experience he has gained in the United States.

Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Mr. Bamidele described the award as a privilege and source of inspiration. He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing conservation science, promoting sustainable land management and contributing to environmental stewardship through professional service and leadership.

The recognition further highlights the growing global impact of FUNAAB graduates in advancing sustainable development and addressing environmental challenges.