FUTA Inducts 2023/2024 Food Science Graduates into Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology

The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), through its Department of Food Science and Technology, held the second induction ceremony for its 2023/2024 graduates into the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) on Friday, 22nd August 2025, marking a significant milestone in their professional journey.

The ceremony drew dignitaries from academia, industry, and the professional body, alongside proud parents and guardians celebrating the achievements of the inductees.

Represented by the Dean, School of Life Sciences, Professor Kola Oladumoye, Vice-Chancellor Professor Adenike Oladiji emphasized that the induction symbolizes a transition from academic training to professional recognition. “Our graduates are not merely degree holders but solution-bearers and nation-builders. With Nigeria’s population projected to exceed 400 million by 2050, the responsibility to ensure food security, safety, and nutrition rests heavily on food scientists like you,” she said. She further urged the graduates to uphold professional ethics while embracing entrepreneurship and innovation, and commended NIFST for sustaining the tradition of professional induction.

Professor Olufunmilayo Omoba, Head of Department, described the occasion as a historic rite of passage, formally admitting the graduates into the professional fold. He reiterated the department’s commitment to producing competent, innovative, and ethically responsible graduates prepared to address challenges in food security, nutrition, safety, and industrial innovation.

Professor Bolanle Akinwande, Chairperson of NIFST’s Western Chapter, reminded the graduates that induction is a gateway into a respected professional community. She encouraged them to transform Nigeria’s vast agricultural resources into value-added products, reduce post-harvest losses, and combat malnutrition through creativity and entrepreneurship.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of NIFST’s National President, Dr. Bola Osinowo, Professor Mathew Oluwamukomi highlighted the Institute’s mission of advancing food science and technology in Nigeria. He congratulated the new members, who now bear the professional title MNIFST, urging them to view the induction as the beginning of a lifelong professional journey.

The ceremony culminated with the formal presentation of certificates and official admission into NIFST, symbolizing the graduates’ readiness to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s food sector and global food systems. The event ended on a celebratory note, with guests reaffirming the importance of food science in national development and the inductees pledging to uphold the ideals of their profession.