FUNAAB VC Tasks University Administrators on Strategic Leadership

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Professor Olusola Babatunde Kehinde, has called on university administrators to embrace strategic leadership, technological innovation and professional excellence to strengthen institutional growth and enhance administrative efficiency.

The Vice-Chancellor, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Olusegun Idowu, made the call on 20th October 2026, during the 2026 Day Celebration of the Association of Nigerian University Professional Administrators (ANUPA), FUNAAB Chapter, held at the University's Red Chamber.

Prof. Kehinde, who is the Grand Patron of ANUPA, underscored the strategic importance of professional administrators in sustaining institutional stability and ensuring effective implementation of university policies.

Earlier, the Chairman of ANUPA, FUNAAB Chapter, Mr. Adewale Ojoye, urged administrators to move beyond routine clerical responsibilities and position themselves as active contributors to institutional planning, policy development and strategic decision-making.

He stressed the need for continuous professional development, technological advancement and adherence to ethical standards.

Delivering a lecture titled Beyond the Desk: Reimagining the Administrator as a Strategic Partner in Institutional Leadership, the guest lecturer, Mr. Adebayo Ogundinmu, a former Registrar of D.S. Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, Itori, said contemporary administrators must evolve beyond traditional functions to become strategic partners in institutional leadership and sustainable development.

He said administrators must demonstrate technological competence, critical thinking and data-driven decision-making, while developing a thorough understanding of their institutions' vision and strategic priorities.

A major highlight of the celebration was the recognition of outstanding contributions. Mr. Ogundinmu received an Award as Guest Lecturer, while Mr. Moses Ayanda and Mrs. Oluwakemi Banuso were honoured with Leadership Awards. Mrs. Mopelola Olokode, Mr. Tijani Shehu and Mr. Olufemi Babatunde received Meritorious Service Awards.

The event aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 16 on quality education and strong institutions through emphasis on institutional effectiveness and accountable governance.