Senator Buhari AbdulFatai has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, for their roles in establishing the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO) in Oyo State.
The Senator made this known on Wednesday during a visit from the management team of the new university, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Jacob Babayemi, to his office in Abuja.
While the university delegation praised the Senator for his major role in securing the institution’s approval, Buhari humbly redirected the credit to key national figures, saying the project’s success was a collective effort.
“I thank President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and Professor Gbadesin, the Asiwaju of Okeho, for their contributions that made the establishment of this university possible,” the Senator said in response to the VC’s remarks.
Professor Babayemi had earlier presented an official letter of appreciation to the Senator, acknowledging his tireless efforts in making the long-awaited institution a reality.
“We are here to thank you, sir. The entire Oke-Ogun region is deeply grateful. Your role was instrumental — about 80 to 90 percent of the work that led to the establishment of this university was driven by your commitment,” Babayemi said. “For years, our region had no federal presence. We hope you will continue to support us as the university grows.”
Senator Buhari, who chairs the Senate Committee on Aviation and Aerospace, urged the university’s management team to stay focused and work toward building a world-class institution that would stand the test of time.
He reminded them that their appointments were not just positions of authority but opportunities to serve the nation and create a lasting legacy.
The VC was accompanied by key members of FUNATO’s management team, including the Registrar, Aminu Muhammad Olayinka; Bursar, Prince Kazeem Popoola; Librarian, Dr. Adigun Abdulganiyu; and Alhaji Adedeji Adewale, an Abuja-based philanthropist from Saki.
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Earlier reports confirmed that FUNATO, located in Kajola Local Government Area of Oyo State, is set to begin academic activities this year, following assurances from the Federal Ministry of Education.
The university, described as a science-based centre of excellence, is designed to merge agriculture with modern technology and innovation. Professor Babayemi noted that the institution aims to offer programmes focused on science, technology, and innovation to drive national growth and development.
