In a ceremony held yesterday, 24th June, 2025, the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, officially commissioned a state-of-the-art Central Laboratory in honour of the late Dr. Suraj Adesina, an esteemed alumnus of the institution.
The event was graced by an array of dignitaries from academia, traditional institutions, government, and industry. Among those present were the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Kayode Adebowale; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof Peter Olapegba; Dean of the Faculty Science, Prof. Oladayo Sonibare; Prof. Oyeronke Odunola; Prof. Titilayo Fakeye; Prof. Priscilla Adejumo of the Faculty of Nursing; and Prof. Kareem from the University of Lagos College of Medicine.
Royal fathers in attendance included His Royal Highness, Oba Jimoh, the Olu of Igboora; Oba Jamiu Badmus, the Asawo of Ayete; and other local leaders including the Chief Imam of Igboora and the Chairman of Ibarapa Central Local Government. Also present was Dr. Gani Adeniran, among other distinguished guests.
In her welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Olufunke Ola-Davies, expressed deep appreciation to all attendees and acknowledged the instrumental support of the benefactor's family. She described the laboratory project as a long-cherished vision of the late Dr. Adesina before his passing in August 2024, and praised the generosity that brought the vision to life.
“There has long been a dire need for a central laboratory within the Faculty,” she said. “We are grateful for this benevolence, and we hope this will pave the way for even greater development within our faculty and the University as a whole.”
She also acknowledged the contributions of Adsavet Services Consult and Kexing Animal Health (China) in supporting the laboratory’s establishment.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Alhaja Aminat Adesina, wife of the late Dr. Adesina, delivered an emotional tribute. She described the project as a realization of her husband's dream to give back to his alma mater, and thanked the Class of '92 for their unwavering support during her time of grief.
“This laboratory is not just a building; it is a legacy,” she said. “My husband believed in fostering excellence, and we are committed to upholding his vision. We plan to visit every five years for renovation and upkeep, to ensure the lab continues to serve its purpose.”
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kayode Adebowale lauded the power of alumni engagement and the significance of the new laboratory to veterinary and scientific research in Nigeria.
“It is indeed a privilege to be here today,” he said. “This project underscores what alumni can achieve when they come together. The University receives about ₦23 million monthly from the government, but our actual monthly expenditure exceeds ₦300 million. Interventions like this are not only timely—they are necessary.”
He further noted that while the idea of a central lab is not new to the University, this realization is a landmark achievement that enhances the institution’s research capability and global reputation.
The commissioning ceremony then proceeded with the official unveiling of the laboratory, led by the Vice-Chancellor and other dignitaries.
Also, speaking at the event, HRH Oba Jimoh, the Olu of Igboora, reflected on Dr. Adesina’s legacy.
“We gather today with gratitude, pride, and solemn reflection to honour the memory of an illustrious son of our soil,” he said. “May this laboratory serve as a ground for groundbreaking research and contribute meaningfully to the progress of the faculty, the University, and the nation at large.”
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