The Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO), has matriculated 1,193 pioneer students into its undergraduate programmes, drawing commendation from key stakeholders who described the development as a significant boost to Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
The maiden matriculation ceremony, held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the university’s temporary campus in Okeho, Oyo State, attracted dignitaries from government, academia, and the host community, alongside parents and guardians of the newly admitted students.
The pioneer intake spans six faculties, reflecting the university’s academic framework. The College of Science and Computing recorded the highest enrolment with 575 students, followed by the College of Engineering and Technology with 220 students. The College of Agricultural Development and Human Ecology admitted 193 students, while the College of Livestock Development and Environmental Sciences enrolled 114 students. The College of Environmental Design and Geospatial Technology had 62 students, and the College of Plant Science and Crop Production admitted 29 students.
The ceremony featured a formal academic procession led by principal officers of the university, including the Deputy Registrar (Senate), Dean of Students’ Affairs, Deans of Colleges, University Librarian, Bursar, Registrar, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, the Mace Bearer, and the Vice-Chancellor.
Declaring the event open, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olaniyi Jacob Babayemi, described the matriculation as a defining moment in the institution’s history. He said the admission of the pioneer cohort represents the realisation of a long-envisioned project achieved through collective effort and resilience.
He acknowledged the contributions of key stakeholders to the establishment of the university, noting that the institution was created following the signing of its establishment bill into law on May 22, 2023. He also recognised the legislative backing and advocacy efforts that ensured the siting of the university in Okeho.
The Vice-Chancellor further commended the Okeho community for its support, stating that local stakeholders, through the FUNATO Planning Committee, facilitated the readiness of facilities between April and August 2025. He added that religious groups contributed to infrastructure development by donating lecture halls, while a N20 million donation supported the renovation of science laboratories.
Babayemi also expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government for providing part of Awoyemi Commercial High School as the university’s take-off site, as well as to the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Universities Commission for their roles in approvals, staffing, and resource verification for the institution’s six colleges and 34 academic programmes.
Addressing the students, he urged them to uphold discipline, integrity, and diligence, stressing that, as pioneer students, they bear the responsibility of setting standards for future cohorts. He also announced plans for a university anthem competition, with prizes for outstanding entries.
In goodwill messages, stakeholders congratulated the students and encouraged them to remain focused on their academic pursuits while striving for excellence. Community leaders and representatives of supporting organisations also commended the university’s progress and reaffirmed their commitment to its development.
Traditional rulers in the area welcomed the institution and pledged continued support for its growth and stability.
Highlights of the ceremony included the administration of the matriculation oath, the signing of the matriculation register, and a lecture delivered by a guest academic.
Established in 2025, FUNATO currently offers 34 academic programmes across six faculties and is positioning itself as a centre for agricultural and technological innovation in Nigeria. The event was attended by members of the Governing Council, university officials, academics from other institutions, community leaders, and other stakeholders.