The Minister of Education has lauded Prof. Segun Gbadegesin CON, a long-time associate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for playing a pivotal role in the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO).
Speaking at the inauguration of the institution’s Governing Council and Principal Officers, the Minister revealed that Prof. Gbadegesin, a respected scholar and patriot, set aside his own political and ministerial ambitions to ensure that Oke-Ogun land secured its first full-fledged federal university.
“Prof. Segun Gbadegesin’s friendship with President Tinubu is well-known. But what stands out is how he chose to convert that goodwill into a lasting legacy for his people rather than pursue personal gain. FUNATO is here today because he sacrificed an appointment many thought was already his, so that Oke-Ogun could take its rightful place on Nigeria’s educational map,” the Minister stated.
He further charged the community to honour this sacrifice by safeguarding the institution through fairness, merit, and due process. “This university is not just another federal project; it is the fruit of vision, sacrifice, and love for Oke-Ogun. Let us now build on this foundation with excellence and integrity,” he added.
The Minister also commended the pioneer Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jacob Olaniyi Babayemi, and his management team, urging them to uphold transparency and professionalism in all their operations.
“This gift must not be squandered. It is a responsibility to future generations,” the Minister concluded.