On Friday, April 4th, the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT) celebrated its 61st Anniversary Convocation at Dr. K.J. Nwufoh Hall, honoring the 2023/2024 graduating class, marking a significant milestone in the institution's journey of academic excellence and innovation within the realm of agricultural education. The ceremony commemorated the graduation of 820 students across various programs, with attendance from distinguished dignitaries, faculty members, parents, and alumni.
Notable attendees included Mrs. Olayinka Akeredolu, the Zonal Director of the South-West Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, who represented the Hon. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Abubakar Kyari; Dr. Adekoya Olatunde Owosibo, the Provost of FCAH&PT and host of the event; Dr. Omolara Jemimah Ojezele, Chair of the Local Organizing Committee; Dr. Ibrahim Abdulganiyu, the Provost of the Federal Cooperative College, Eleyele; and Prof. Oluwatosin, representing Prof. Veronica Obatolu, the Director of the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), among others.
In her address, Mrs. Akeredolu celebrated the achievements of the graduates, referring to them as “a brand new world changer.” She expressed her gratitude to the management and staff for their dedication to student training. “Today, we are awarding certificates to a professional generation set to transform Nigeria's agricultural landscape,” she said. Furthermore, she charged graduates to believe in their country and embrace lifelong learning. “The country needs you, and you have a role to play in its development,” she added, encouraging parents to support their children as they embark on this new phase of life.
Dr. Adekoya Olatunde Owosibo, in his address, emphasized the college's ongoing commitment to training and impacting students, stakeholders, and the public. "This great college is constantly doing its best in reproducing graduates of National and Higher National Diploma levels that are morally sound, professionally skillful, and enterprising for sustainable agriculture, science, and rural development in Nigeria,” he stated. Since inception in 1964, the college has produced over 15,000 students and formed collaborations with public and private organizations in areas of training, entrepreneurship, and infrastructural development. Dr. Owosibo proudly noted the college's qualified faculty: “We have over 60 PhD holders and more than 200 MSc holders, and the numbers continue to grow.”
In a moving response, Samuel Esther Oyiza, the overall best graduating student with an outstanding 3.98 CGPA, expressed her gratitude, stating, “This moment is not just a celebration of our achievements; it is a testament to the hard work, sacrifices, and support we have received from our families, staff, and the institution. I stand here today not just as an individual, but as a representative of my colleagues who have walked this journey with me. We are excited about the future ahead of us and are committed to making a meaningful impact in our communities and beyond.”
In an exclusive interview with CEOAFRICA, Dr. Ibrahim Abdulganiyu reflected on his personal journey. “Last year, I was seated in this auditorium as a head of department; today, I am honored to be part of the 61st anniversary as a provost,” he remarked. He emphasized the critical need to address food security in Nigeria by increasing production. “We must create an enabling environment to ensure food self-sufficiency,” he stated, underlining the significant role of cooperatives in economic development.
The ceremony was filled with moments of pride and celebration, underscoring the college’s commitment to nurturing skilled professionals in the agricultural sector. As graduates embarked on their new journeys, they were reminded of their vital role in shaping Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
Following the speeches, awards were presented to outstanding students in various categories. This included special recognition for Samuel Esther Oyiza for her remarkable academic achievement, as well as her classmates who exhibited exceptional performance in their respective programs. The atmosphere was electric with enthusiasm as families and friends cheered for their loved ones, celebrating not only individual accomplishments but also the collective success of the graduating class.
The event concluded on a hopeful note, with Dr. Adekoya Owosibo encouraging the graduates to pursue excellence and continue their professional development. "As you leave this institution with your certificates, remember that education is a continuous journey. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, and don't shy away from challenges. We believe in you, and the future of agriculture in Nigeria depends on your contributions,” he said.
