FUNAAB Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, Inaugurates UNAAB Microfinance Bank Branch in Camp/Apakila Junction.

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, has inaugurated the newly-built UNAAB Microfinance Bank (UMFB) branch at Camp/Apakila Junction. The commissioning ceremony, held on September 2, 2024, was described by Prof. Kehinde as a momentous achievement for both the University and the Bank.

Prof. Kehinde, who also serves as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of UMFB, emphasized the critical role of financial institutions in driving growth and development. Addressing guests and well-wishers at the ceremony, he highlighted how such institutions enhance financial activities and facilitate business transactions within their communities.

He assured the Mechanic Village community of the numerous benefits the new branch would bring, drawing parallels to the positive impact of the Bank’s first branch in Sapon, Abeokuta. Prof. Kehinde encouraged the community to foster a smooth and cooperative relationship with the Bank, assuring them of the University’s commitment to acting in the best interests of the community.

The event also featured remarks from Mr. Ayoade Adebiyi, the Managing Director of UMFB, who expressed deep gratitude to those present. He noted that the expansion marked a significant advancement in the Bank’s growth strategy. Mr. Adebiyi reaffirmed the Bank’s dedication to bringing services closer to its customers, strengthening its market presence, fostering financial inclusion, and contributing to the local community by providing accessible financial services.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, along with Principal and Top Officers of the University, including the Baale of Camp, Chief Akanji Fatola, and some executive members of Camp Mechanic Village, gathered after the ceremony to mark the occasion.

Mr. Ayoade Adebiyi, the Managing Director of UMFB, extended his appreciation to the host community for their vital role in establishing the bank in Camp. He lauded the Board of Directors, under the leadership of Prof. Kehinde, for their confidence in the expansion project and commended the hard work and dedication of all those who made the new branch a reality.

The Oluwo of Osiele, Chief Akanni Kehinde, expressed his gratitude to the University Management for opening the new branch. He acknowledged the initial scepticism about the project, which was fueled by fears, but noted that these concerns had been proven unfounded with the successful commissioning. He offered prayers for the Bank’s continued success.

In his Vote of Thanks, the Acting Bursar, Mr. Olukayode Osinuga, expressed his gratitude to all attendees, especially the Principal Officers and members of the host community, for their unwavering support, even on short notice.

The commissioning ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Kola Adebayo; the Acting Registrar, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Dawodu; the Principal Partner of Jubril Olawale & Co. and External Auditor of UMFB, Mr. Jubril Olawale; and other top officials of the University.