FUNAAB VC Tasks Male Staff to Actively Drive Gender Equality as Institution Marks 2026 International Women’s Day

Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta has reiterated its commitment to gender inclusion as the institution joined the global community to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day, with a strong call for male staff to take a more proactive role in advancing gender equality.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Babatunde Kehinde, made the appeal on March 18, 2026, during a commemorative event organised by the National Association of University Women (NAUW), FUNAAB Chapter, held at the Postgraduate School Auditorium. He was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Olusegun Idowu.

He urged male staff to function as allies and active partners in promoting equity, stressing that sustainable progress in gender inclusion depends on collective responsibility. He also reaffirmed the university’s zero-tolerance policy on harassment, alongside its commitment to fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in career advancement.

Delivering the keynote lecture, the Dean of the College of Biosciences, Professor Iyabode Kehinde, traced the historical roots of women’s movements globally, highlighting their evolution from early labour activism to internationally recognised advocacy frameworks. She underscored the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and institutional support in strengthening women’s leadership.

She noted that while initiatives such as the global “Give to Gain” campaign promote professional development and mentorship, time constraints and competitive academic environments often limit their effectiveness, calling instead for sustained collective commitment.

The event, themed “Rights, Justice and Action for All Women and Girls,” also featured the unveiling of a Festschrift in honour of the NAUW National President, Professor Comfort Onifade, recognising her contributions to scholarship and mentorship.

In her remarks, Professor Onifade described the recognition as a reflection of shared academic and mentorship values, paying tribute to her late husband, Professor Sunday Onifade, and urging young academics to prioritise impact over recognition.

The FUNAAB NAUW Chapter President, Professor Emily Ayo-John, encouraged female graduates to pursue their careers with confidence while highlighting ongoing initiatives such as girl-child education advocacy and childcare support through the university crèche.

The programme also included a send-forth ceremony for retiring members, a health awareness session focused on women’s wellbeing, and the presentation of awards to individuals recognised for advancing gender equality within the institution.

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening mentorship structures and sustaining institutional efforts aimed at promoting gender balance and inclusivity across the university system.