FUNAAB VC Pledges Continued Commitment to Sustaining University’s Flourishing Legacy During 33rd Convocation Interdenominational Service

The Vice-Chancellor of Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Professor Babatunde Kehinde, has reaffirmed the University Management’s dedication to building, strengthening, and sustaining a flourishing institution capable of leaving a lasting legacy.

Professor Kehinde delivered the assurance while addressing the Christian community during a special interdenominational service held as part of FUNAAB’s 33rd Convocation Ceremony and 38th Founder's Day celebrations. He emphasized that the milestones being celebrated were not accidental but a call to greater responsibility, stewardship, and sustained growth.

“For this University to flourish and continue flourishing, we must do the needful. We must wisely deploy and trade with the resources God has entrusted to us so that FUNAAB will continue on the path of progress He has ordained,” Prof. Kehinde stated, cautioning against complacency and urging the community to channel achievements into renewed commitment rather than comfort.

Highlighting the University’s tangible progress, the Vice-Chancellor pointed to improvements in infrastructure, financial stability, and material development, noting that sustaining these gains requires collective effort, discipline, and visionary leadership at all levels. He charged staff across Colleges, Institutes, Directorates, Departments, and Units to embrace shared responsibility in preserving FUNAAB’s growing reputation.

“This flourishing must be sustained in such a way that even when we retire, we can return with pride and say we were part of a legacy that endured,” he added. He also expressed appreciation to the Academic and Non-Teaching staff, including personnel of FUNAAB Staff School and FUNAAB International School, for their dedication and sacrifice.

Addressing graduating students, Prof. Kehinde congratulated them on completing their academic programmes and prayed for divine guidance, open doors, and a prosperous future. Drawing from his own academic journey, he encouraged graduates to remain teachable, disciplined, and receptive to mentorship, stressing that diligence and obedience are critical for long-term success.

Earlier, in a sermon titled “Building and Sustaining a Flourishing Institution,” the University Chaplain, Professor Christian Ikeobi, urged the FUNAAB community to embrace righteousness as the foundation for sustained growth. He defined flourishing as the ability to glow, grow, and develop in a healthy and enduring manner, and outlined four critical factors for building a flourishing institution: the God factor, godly and visionary leadership, the right kind of knowledge, and righteous, committed stakeholders.

Prof. Ikeobi emphasized that effective leadership must be guided by knowledge inspired by God and highlighted the role of committed followers in institutional success. He concluded by praying for the continued growth of FUNAAB and for the successful completion of the 33rd Convocation activities.