UI Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association Honors Outgoing Dean, Prof. Olufunke Ola-Davies, for Exemplary Leadership

The Alumni Association of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, under the leadership of its President, Dr. Ibikunle Faramade, on Wednesday, held a get-together to celebrate the outgoing Dean, Professor Olufunke E. Ola-Davies. The event celebrated her outstanding and transformative leadership during her tenure as the Faculty’s 16th—and notably, first female Dean.

The event which was held at the Prof. Bankole Oke boardroom brought together distinguished guests, including Prof. Gani Adeniran; Prof. Adejinmi; Prof. Ajadi, former Deans, Prof. V.O. Taiwo, Prof. M.O. Oyeyemi; the incoming Dean, Prof. B.O. Olugasa; Heads of Departments, Senior Academics, and other members of the Alumni.

In his remarks, Dr. Faramade praised Professor Ola-Davies for her visionary stewardship, which he described as both bold and progressive, especially in the face of Nigeria’s challenging economic climate affecting higher education. He highlighted several key milestones achieved under her administration, including the establishment of the Faculty's Alumni Association, the successful securing of full accreditation from both the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, and a significant improvement in the global ranking of the Faculty.

Professor Ola-Davies was also commended for her commitment to academic and infrastructural development. Notable achievements include the promotion of 16 academic staff members to the professorial cadre, recruitment of 26 new lecturers, renovation and upgrade of departmental buildings, and the construction of a Faculty Lounge and Restaurant. Her leadership also oversaw the successful celebration of the Faculty’s 60th anniversary in 2024.

Dr. Faramade further acknowledged her instrumental role in facilitating high-impact partnerships and securing the donation of a research and development building to the faculty. He described her tenure as “unprecedented in scope and impact,” and lauded her as a brave and innovative administrator. He concluded by encouraging Prof. Ola-Davies to continue lending her wisdom and support to the incoming Dean, Prof. Olugasa.

Afterward, cash prizes were presented to recipients of the Prof. Lekan Oyejide award for the 2023/2024 academic session.

In her response, Professor Ola-Davies expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Alumni Association for the honor. She extended her gratitude to staff and members of the faculty for supporting her administration. 

She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting ongoing efforts toward sustaining progress and excellence in the faculty.