FUNAAB Marks 33rd Annual Christmas Carol, Celebrates Enduring Legacy Since 1993

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has once again etched another memorable chapter in its rich spiritual heritage with the celebration of its 33rd Annual Christmas Carol Service, a revered tradition that dates back to 1993 at the University’s temporary site at the old Grammar School, Isale-Igbein.

With the theme “Jesus, The Name Above Every Other Name,” the Carol Service was a profound blend of soul-lifting hymns, fervent prayers and heartfelt thanksgiving, as members of the University's Christian Community gathered in unity to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and reflect on God’s unfailing faithfulness over the years.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olusegun Idowu, expressed deep gratitude to God for preservation, progress and purpose throughout the year. He described 2025 as a landmark year for FUNAAB, marked by notable strides in teaching, research, innovation and infrastructural development, while commending staff and students for their resilience, dedication and unwavering commitment to the University’s core values.

The Vice-Chancellor further noted that Christmas epitomises love, humility and hope, charging members of the University to embody compassion, unity and selfless service, both within the campus and the larger society.

Earlier in his Welcome Address, the University Chaplain, Prof. Christian Ikeobi, reflected on God’s faithfulness to the institution over the decades, recalling that the Christmas Carol tradition began in Isale Igbein in 1993. He highlighted FUNAAB’s rising profile, reaffirming its status as the best University of Agriculture in Africa, and expressed confidence in the institution’s growing global relevance.

Delivering the sermon, the Guest Minister, Brother Segun Ariyo of Potters House Christian Mission, Nigeria, dwelt on the supremacy of the name of Jesus, describing it as “a name above every other name.” He urged Christians to build lives anchored on integrity and righteousness, stressing that a good name outweighs wealth, influence or anointing.

Quoting Philippians 2:9–11, he emphasised that God exalted Jesus and bestowed upon Him a name before which every knee must bow, underscoring the authority of the name of Jesus over sickness, adversity and all opposing forces.

The service was graced by Principal Officers and distinguished members of the University Community, including the Registrar, Dr. Titus Adeniyi; Mrs. Margaret Omisope (representing the Bursar); Dr. Taiwo Koleade (representing the University Librarian); Dean, COLBIOS, Prof. Iyabode Kehinde; Dean, Student Affairs, Prof. Festus Adeosun; Director, CEADESE, Prof. Adeboye Fafiolu; Dean, COLAMRUD, Prof. Emmanuel Fakoya; Director, ICGNS, Prof. Remi Aduradola; Chairperson, Ceremonials Committee, Prof. Temitope Ajadi and the immediate past Bursar, Mr. Chukwuwinke Ezekpeazu, among several others.

The highpoints of the Service were Christmas Songs rendered by the Chapel of Grace Choir and several choreographic displays by the Chapel's members, including children from adjoining communities of the University. 

By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Raymond Osemene