FUNAAB Welcomes Fresh Students as 2026/2027 Orientation Programme Begins

For thousands of new students entering the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, the first lesson of university life has begun before lectures fully take over: knowing how to navigate the institution, avoid its pitfalls and make the most of the opportunities ahead.

FUNAAB has welcomed fresh students into the 2026/2027 academic session with an orientation programme designed to prepare them for academic, social and personal life at the university.

ValidViewNetwork reports that the programme began on September 14, 2026, with the new students receiving information on the University’s history, academic culture, rules and regulations, welfare services, financial procedures, accommodation, library resources and healthcare.

Addressing the fresh students, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, welcomed them to FUNAAB and urged them to embrace the discipline and values for which the institution is known.

Kehinde described FUNAAB’s national and international reputation as “second to none” and encouraged the students to conduct themselves responsibly throughout their stay.

The Vice-Chancellor also reminded the students that FUNAAB’s core mandates are Teaching, Research and Extension Services.

He urged them to contribute actively to these objectives while taking advantage of the opportunities available within the university.

He assured the students that the university management remained committed to their welfare and academic success, describing FUNAAB’s responsibility towards them as “in loco parentis.”

The Registrar, Dr. Titus Adeniyi, represented by the Deputy Registrar, Mr. Samson Adeniran, took the students through the history, vision and mission of the university.

He also stressed the collective responsibility of students and staff in sustaining FUNAAB’s position as a leading institution of agriculture in Africa.Financial responsibility featured prominently during the orientation.

The Bursar, Mr. Olukayode Osinuga, represented by Mrs. Margaret Omisope, explained the University’s approved payment procedures and urged the students to verify the authenticity of payment channels before making financial transactions.

The students were also encouraged to take advantage of the instalmental payment structure for school fees provided by Management.

They were further informed about the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND, student loan scheme of the Federal Government.

The University Librarian, Prof. Abayomi Owolabi, represented by Dr. Idowu Koleade, introduced the fresh students to the library’s resources and services.

He encouraged them to make effective use of the University’s library facilities to support their studies, research and pursuit of academic excellence.Student welfare and responsible conduct also took centre stage.

The Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Festus Adeosun, warned the new students against negative peer influence, drug and substance abuse.

He urged them to build positive relationships and conduct themselves in accordance with the University’s rules and regulations.

The Student Union President, Comrade Soga Oluwatimileyin, encouraged the fresh students to participate actively in intellectual and literary activities that could enhance their personal development.

He, however, reminded them to remain focused on the primary purpose of their admission to the university.

Other speakers included the Director of Health Services, Dr. Oluseyi Anjorin, represented by Dr. Nasir Oyelekan, and the Deputy Dean, Student Affairs Division, Dr. Mathew Whetto.

They provided further information on student welfare, healthcare and the challenges involved in making a successful transition into university life.

The orientation programme was not all about rules, fees and responsibilities.

The FUNAAB Cultural Troupe provided entertainment, while comedian Davinci also performed, giving the new students an opportunity to experience the cultural and social side of university life.

ValidViewNetwork reports that the programme is intended to give the new students more than a ceremonial welcome by providing practical information they will need to navigate their academic journey.

But the advice given during orientation will only matter if the students turn it into daily habits.

University life offers greater freedom than secondary school, but that freedom also comes with greater responsibility.

The warnings against drugs, negative peer influence and financial carelessness therefore carry the same weight as the academic guidance delivered during the programme.

For the new students, the real challenge begins after the welcome addresses, performances and first-day excitement. They must now build the discipline to attend lectures, pursue knowledge, manage their finances, choose their friends carefully and make responsible decisions when nobody is watching.

Admission opens the door, but it does not determine what lies beyond it.

ValidViewNetwork reports that FUNAAB has started the 2026/2027 academic journey for its new students with a clear message: academic success must be matched by discipline, responsible conduct and meaningful participation in university life.

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The institution has provided the guidance. The next chapter will depend largely on what the students do with it.

ValidViewNetwork reports that for the fresh students, the orientation may be their first official lesson at FUNAAB, but the real examination will be how well they apply those lessons throughout their university years.