FUNAAB Inaugurates SERVICOM Marshals, Student Brigades to Drive Accountability and Service Standards

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has inaugurated a new set of SERVICOM Marshals and student Brigades in a move to strengthen service delivery, accountability, and institutional efficiency across the university.

The inauguration, held on April 15, 2026, forms part of ongoing efforts to reinforce quality service standards and align operations with best practices in public service.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, described the initiative as a significant step in advancing the university’s commitment to excellence. Represented by the Dean of the Postgraduate School, Prof. Olusiji Sowande, he noted that the programme reflects the institution’s guiding philosophy, “Knowledge for Development,” and its responsibility to meet the expectations of both internal and external stakeholders.

He explained that SERVICOM, the Service Compact with All Nigerians, was established in March 2004 under former President Olusegun Obasanjo to promote timely, transparent, and citizen-focused service delivery in public institutions. According to him, FUNAAB’s SERVICOM Charter operationalises these principles, providing a framework for efficiency across all service points within the university.

The Vice-Chancellor said the newly inaugurated Marshals, drawn from both academic and non-teaching staff, alongside student Brigades, would be responsible for monitoring compliance with institutional regulations, identifying service delivery gaps, and reporting deficiencies to the SERVICOM Unit for prompt action.

He urged the appointees to carry out their duties with professionalism and integrity, cautioning against misconduct such as extortion, harassment, and intimidation. He also advised them to avoid accepting gifts or favours that could compromise their objectivity, while encouraging the recognition of exemplary service where observed.

In her welcome address, the SERVICOM Focal Officer, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Dawodu, said the exercise represents the second phase of efforts to involve both staff and students in promoting accountability and improving service delivery standards within the university system. She described SERVICOM as a social contract between the government and citizens, guaranteeing access to quality service and mechanisms for redress.

Mrs. Dawodu, a former Acting Registrar of the university, explained that the SERVICOM Unit oversees service delivery across key operational areas, including colleges, departments, directorates, centres, institutes, hostels, lecture rooms, laboratories, and major academic processes such as examinations, matriculation, and convocation. She added that periodic reports are submitted to management to address identified gaps and sustain performance standards.

While acknowledging the commendable performance of several service units, she called for a review of the existing SERVICOM Charter to better reflect current operational realities and enhance effectiveness.

She expressed confidence that the newly inaugurated Marshals and Brigades would strengthen compliance monitoring, deepen awareness of SERVICOM principles, and improve service delivery outcomes across the university.

The event was attended by the Head of the Office of Advancement, Mr. Olujinmi Ogundimu; a representative of the Headteacher of FUNAAB Staff School, Mr. Saburi Sanusi; and the Matron of the FUNAAB Students’ Union Government, Mrs. Olukemi Fashina, among others.

The ceremony concluded with appreciation to the university management for its continued support, alongside renewed commitment from staff and students to uphold service excellence across the institution.