The Executive Director of the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) and proud Alumnus of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) Professor Lateef Oladimeji Sanni, has been celebrated by ValidViewNetwork on the occasion of his 60th birthday. In a heartfelt congratulatory letter, the Founder and CEO of ValidViewNetwork , Dr Kayode Ogunjobi FFAN, an Associate Professor of Wood Utilisation and Protection, described the renowned academic, esteemed food scientist and educationist as “a humble giant” whose life and career reflect unwavering excellence in scholarship, leadership, and cultural stewardship.
In the letter titled “Celebrating a Humble Giant at 60: Prof. Lateef Sanni—The Scholar, the Mentor, the Mogaji”, Dr. Ogunjobi praised Prof. Sanni for his inspiring journey through academia, national service, and global consultancy, highlighting his rare combination of brilliance and humility.
Opening the tribute, Ogunjobi expressed profound admiration for Prof. Sanni’s journey through life and scholarship, stating:
“It is with profound joy and deep admiration that we at ValidViewNetwork extend our heartfelt congratulations to you on the occasion of your 60th birthday anniversary.”
The letter highlights Prof. Sanni’s remarkable career, rooted in his days at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), where he emerged as one of its most accomplished alumni.
“Your journey has been nothing short of inspiring. As a proud alumnus of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), you have brought unparalleled honour to your alma mater through your academic brilliance, visionary leadership, and outstanding contributions to the advancement of agricultural science and food security, both nationally and globally.”
Dr. Ogunjobi praised Prof. Sanni not only for his professional success but also for his leadership style that uplifts others:
“You have built a legacy not just of professional success but of lifting others as you rise.”
He further acknowledged the multi-dimensional nature of Prof. Sanni’s service to the nation and humanity and asserted that he has contributed across academic, governmental, and international development platforms.
“Your ability to gracefully handle multifaceted responsibilities—from academia to national service, consultancy to policy leadership—reflects a dynamism that only a few can match. In every sphere, you have proven yourself to be a man of focus, innovation, and integrity.”
While acknowledging his global recognition and numerous accomplishments, the letter singles out Prof. Sanni’s humility as his most defining trait:
“Despite your status as a global brand with an uncommon Midas touch, your humility remains your greatest crown. You continue to inspire by your unwavering belief that ‘only God crowns a man’—a profound spiritual posture that speaks volumes about your character and worldview.”
In a unique blend of tradition and academia, Prof. Sanni holds the chieftaincy title of Mogaji of the Olukunle Compound, Isale Alfa, Ibadan and the Founder/ CEO of ValidViewNetwork commended the seamless blend of cultural heritage with intellectual excellence.
“Your commitment to the gown-town relationship is beautifully embodied in your revered role as Mogaji of the Olukunle Compound, Isale Alfa, Ibadan. You have not only carried the torch of academic excellence but have kept your cultural heritage alive, blending scholarship with tradition in a way that dignifies both.”
Concluding the tribute, Dr. Ogunjobi celebrated Prof. Sanni’s legacy while expressing hope for even greater achievements in the years to come:
“We are grateful for your life, inspired by your achievements, and confident that your best is yet to come. May your 60th year usher in even greater impact, joy, and fulfilment.”
Prof. Sanni is an accomplished academic, administrator, consultant, and researcher. He currently serves as the Executive Director of the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI), where he leads innovations in postharvest management and food preservation.
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He obtained his B.Sc. in Food Science and Technology from FUNAAB in 1990, followed by an M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Food Technology from the University of Ibadan in 1993 and 1999 respectively. Prof. Sanni became a Professor in 2008 and has served in key roles including Dean, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), and Head of Department at FUNAAB.
He has supervised over 100 undergraduate, 30 master’s, and 34 Ph.D. students, and has authored or co-authored more than 150 publications, including books, peer-reviewed journal articles, and one patent. He has also secured over $30 million in competitive grants.
Awards and Honours
Prof. Sanni’s stellar contributions have earned him numerous recognitions, including:
Fellow, Nigerian Academy of Science (FAS)
Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (FNIFST)
Fellow, International Academy of Food Science and Technology (IAFoST)
Fellow, Institute of Management Consultants
Chairman, Steering Committee, Cassava: Adding Value for Africa (CAVA) – a Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation initiative
Visiting Professor, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, UK
Lifetime Achievement Award, Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (2024)
Outstanding International Ambassador Award, FUNAAB (2012)
CGIAR Award, for Regional Technology Development in Sub-Saharan Africa (2008)
As Prof. Lateef Sanni enters a new decade, ValidViewNetwork joins millions in celebrating a life of intellectual distinction, cultural pride, and selfless national service.
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