NIA Commends FUNAAB’s Infrastructural Development, Honours VC with Award of Excellence

The Ogun State Chapter of the Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIA) has commended the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) for its remarkable infrastructural development under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, honouring him with an Award of Excellence for his outstanding leadership, innovation, compassion and commitment to community development.

The commendation was made during a courtesy visit by the top echelon of the Institute to the Vice-Chancellor on August 7, 2026, at the Vice-Chancellor’s Conference Room.

Leading the delegation, the State Chairman of the NIA, Architect Segun Oriola, FNIA, praised the University’s impressive physical transformation and reaffirmed the Institute’s readiness to partner with FUNAAB on architectural, infrastructural and environmental development initiatives.

Architect Oriola assured the Vice-Chancellor that the NIA Ogun State Chapter would continue to make its professional expertise available to the University whenever required.

He also formally invited Prof. Kehinde to the forthcoming Ogun State Architects’ Assembly scheduled for September 17, 2026. According to him, the Assembly would feature presentations of professional papers and other activities aimed at advancing architectural practice in the State.

He noted that the Vice-Chancellor’s presence would add “glamour and class” to the event, while also soliciting the University’s support towards the successful hosting of the programme.

Responding, Prof. Kehinde appreciated the delegation for the visit, commendation and honour bestowed on him.

The Vice-Chancellor described architecture as a noble profession that extends beyond building design to the creation of functional, healthy and aesthetically pleasing environments. He stressed that well-planned physical spaces contribute significantly to human wellbeing, productivity and quality of life.

Prof. Kehinde expressed optimism that the growing emphasis on urban renewal and environmental improvement across the country would create greater opportunities for architects.

Highlighting FUNAAB’s commitment to quality infrastructure, the Vice-Chancellor stated that the University prides itself on having one of the most beautiful campuses in Nigeria. He attributed the achievement to the contributions of dedicated built-environment professionals who had served the institution from its formative years, under the leadership of the late Prof. Nurudeen Olorun-Nimbe Adedipe.

He cited FUNAAB’s iconic Senate Building, constructed in the mid-1990s, as a testament to enduring architectural excellence.

Prof. Kehinde disclosed that the University was simultaneously modernising existing facilities and embarking on new capital projects, particularly projects funded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

He explained that all projects were executed through multidisciplinary teams led by Architects and comprising Structural Engineers, Quantity Surveyors, Mechanical and Electrical Engineers, among other professionals. He added that project designs were subjected to the necessary approvals before procurement and construction.

The Vice-Chancellor further noted that the University maintains transparency in project execution through public bid openings and strict supervisory mechanisms designed to ensure quality delivery.

He stressed the importance of involving end-users through Users’ Committees, emphasising that the true success of any building lies in its functionality and ability to meet Users’ needs.

Speaking on environmental sustainability, Prof. Kehinde underscored the need to further enhance FUNAAB’s expansive green landscape through professional landscape architecture.

He noted that the University already possessed relevant expertise in the area and encouraged deeper collaboration to beautify and sustainably develop the campus.

The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted FUNAAB’s growing investment in renewable energy, revealing that the University now operates a 3.2MW solar power plant alongside its connection to the national electricity grid.

A major highlight of the visit was the presentation of the Award of Excellence to Prof. Kehinde by the NIA, Ogun State Chapter, in recognition of his outstanding leadership, innovation, compassion and commitment to community development.

Receiving the award, the Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude to the Institute and assured the delegation of his attendance at the September 17, 2026, Architects’ Assembly.

He described the Assembly as another opportunity to strengthen the relationship between FUNAAB and the architectural profession in Ogun State.