FUNAAB COLBIOS Begins 2026 with 3-in-1 Programme, Honours Best Graduating Students

The College of Biosciences (COLBIOS), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), today, January 28, 2026, held a 3-in-1 programme comprising a Prayer Session, the Dean’s Honour Award, and a Get-Together to usher in the 2026 academic year.

The event, themed “Beginning with Prayer, Sustaining Excellence,” brought together Academic and Non-Teaching staff, students, alumni, and invited guests in an atmosphere of gratitude, reflection, fellowship, and celebration of outstanding achievements.

Speaking at the programme, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olusegun Idowu, described the College of Biosciences as “very special,” noting that having a member of the University Council serving across three national institutions was a rare and commendable feat that further underscores the College’s growing reputation and influence.

The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the significant developmental strides recorded at the beginning of the year, describing the moment as “biblical” and indicative of divine backing for the College’s continued progress. He emphasised that the College has benefited from quality leadership, past and present, and urged members of the College to use the occasion for reflection, self-evaluation, and renewed commitment to shared institutional goals. The Vice-Chancellor also commended academic staff, retired staff, and key stakeholders for their immense contributions to the growth of the College, particularly in the induction and mentorship of students.

Congratulating the graduating students, he noted that excellence was not accidental but the product of discipline, sacrifice, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to standards.

In her remarks, the Dean, College of Biosciences, Prof. Iyabode Kehinde, explained that the programme is an annual initiative designed to acknowledge God as the foundation of the College’s progress while sustaining excellence in academic and administrative pursuits.

According to her, the event also provided an avenue for relaxation and bonding after rigorous academic activities, fostering unity, appreciation, and collaboration among staff. She added that the interfaith prayer session, led by both Christian and Muslim clerics, was deliberately included to commit the affairs of the College to God at the start of the year, seeking divine guidance, protection, unity, love, and favour for staff, students, and the entire University.

Prof. Kehinde further noted that COLBIOS remains unique within FUNAAB, citing its facilities, staff dedication, and central role in the academic journey of students across the University.

Also speaking, a former Dean of the defunct College of Natural Sciences, Prof. Tope Popoola, expressed delight at reconnecting with long-time colleagues, recalling shared experiences and teamwork during their years of service. He described the gathering as a testament to the enduring bonds built through dedication, cooperation, and mutual support over nearly three decades.

He stressed the importance of life and good health as the foundation for meaningful service and contributions to the College, praying for God’s continued preservation of lives within the COLBIOS community. Prof. Popoola announced a cash reward for Miss Folashade Osunlana, the best graduating student in the Department of Microbiology, who graduated with a CGPA of 4.60.

Addressing the staff members, the Guest Speaker, Mr. Obawunmi Jiboku, described Prof. Iyabode Kehinde as a selfless, service-driven leader whose vision centres on unity, collective responsibility, and institutional service. He noted that the College’s innovative and impactful initiatives reflect her purposeful leadership. Mr. Jiboku presented a cash prize to Esther John-Babatunde, the overall best graduating student in the College, who graduated with a CGPA of 4.80, and announced his commitment to sponsoring the award annually. He also instituted a cash award for the best lecturer in the College.