Senator Iyabo Obasanjo : Why I Taught at FUNAAB While Serving in Senate

Professor Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, former Senator for Ogun Central Senatorial District, revealed that her deep affection for nurturing young people into productive adults fueled her commitment to lecturing at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), even amid her demanding Senate schedule. Speaking to journalists in Abeokuta, the professor of epidemiology and public health emphasized education’s vital role in personal and national development. Despite tight National Assembly sessions, she travelled from Abuja every Thursday to deliver Friday classes pro bono, showcasing unwavering dedication.

Balancing Senate Duties and Classroom Passion

Obasanjo-Bello’s weekly ritual—ending Senate plenary on Thursdays and heading to Abeokuta for teaching—highlighted her belief in knowledge as a cornerstone for youth prosperity. The enthusiasm of her students further motivated her; one former pupil has risen to professorship at a Texas university, for whom she recently penned a tenure promotion recommendation.This success embodies her teaching philosophy: equipping learners to one day mentor others, a hallmark of impactful educators.

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Holding a PhD in Epidemiology from Cornell University, a Master’s from UC Davis, and a veterinary doctorate from the University of Ibadan, Obasanjo-Bello has taught epidemiology, biostatistics, public health, and global health for over 15 years. Her prior roles include Ogun State Health Commissioner under the Otunba Gbenga Daniel (2003-2007) led administration and Senate Health Committee Chair (2007-2011), where she championed healthcare reforms. She thanked FUNAAB’s leadership for enabling her contributions, delivered with the same rigour she applies today.

Now a leading APC aspirant for Ogun State governor in 2027, Obasanjo-Bello eyes Oke Mosan as a platform to amplify her service record. Through her Iyaniwura Foundation, she sustains empowerment for youths, women, and the elderly via skills training and aid, aligning with her lifelong commitment to societal uplift. Her independent APC switch, driven by grassroots appeals rather than family ties, underscores her resolve to break barriers as Ogun’s potential first female governor.