The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), is gearing up to celebrate its 2023/2024 Academic Session Matriculation Ceremony on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at the Oluwafemi Balogun Ceremonial Building.  The event is scheduled to commence at 10:00 a.m., marking the official acceptance of fresh students into the University Community.

As preparations intensify, invited staff members have been notified to collect their green Academic Gowns from the Chief Stores and Suppliers Officer at the 1,000 Seater Lecture Theater tomorrow, Monday, February 26, 2024.  The Academic Procession is urged to assemble at the precinct of the Ceremonial Building by 9:45 a.m. on the Matriculation day to join the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde.

This year's Matriculation Ceremony promises to be enlightening, as Mr. Theophilus Adewale Onadeko (TAO), a seasoned Finance and Agribusiness Executive, is set to deliver the 11th Commencement Lecture.  Mr. Onadeko brings with him a wealth of experience in both the financial and agricultural sectors, making him an apt choice for this significant occasion.

With over 24 years of professional experience spanning corporate strategy, impact investing, SME banking, agribusiness value chain finance, financial technology, and management consulting, Mr. Onadeko has left an indelible mark in various global, regional, and local institutions. 

His roles at esteemed organisations such as the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Financial Sector Deepening Africa (FSDA), and the Nigerian Incentive-Based Risk-Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) underscore his commitment to driving impactful change within the agricultural landscape. Mr. Onadeko's educational background further complements his extensive professional journey. 

He holds an MBA in Finance from Manchester Business School, UK, a Master's in Development Economics & Policy from the University of Manchester, UK, and a Bachelor of Agriculture Degree (B.Agric) in Agricultural Economics & Farm Management from FUNAAB, his alma mater.  In addition, he is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, and a Certified Associate in Project Management from George Washington University School of Business, USA.

Currently pursuing his PhD in Agricultural Economics and Environmental Policy at the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment (CEADESE), FUNAAB, Mr. Onadeko's dedication to advancing knowledge and driving sustainable agricultural practices is evident. As the Commencement Lecturer for FUNAAB's 2023/2024 Matriculation Ceremony, Mr. Onadeko is poised to inspire and motivate the new students, setting the tone for their academic journey ahead. 

His blend of expertise, academic pursuit, and commitment to societal impact aligns perfectly with FUNAAB's ethos of excellence in its Mandate of Teaching, Research and Extension Services.