Senator Buhari AbdulFatai has praised President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, for their crucial roles in setting up the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO).
He made the remarks on Wednesday, the 8th of October, 2025, when the university’s management team, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Jacob Babayemi, paid him a visit in Abuja.
During the visit, the delegation expressed appreciation for the Senator’s strong efforts toward the creation of FUNATO. But Buhari redirected the commendations to national leaders who, according to him, made the university a reality.
A statement released by the university management quoted him as saying, “I thank the President of the country, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and his Father, Professor Gbadesin, who is the Asiwaju of Okeho, for their contributions that led to the establishment of the University.”
Professor Babayemi had earlier presented a formal letter of appreciation to the Senator, acknowledging his major contribution to the project.
“We are here to thank you; we and the entire Oke-Ogun cannot thank you enough.
“Your role, which is 80 or 90% in the entire process in the establishment of the University, nobody can say. The entire region has had no federal presence for years, we urge and seek your continuous support for the growth of the University,” Babayemi said.
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Buhari, who chairs the Senate Committee on Aviation and Aerospace, encouraged the university leadership to stay focused and pursue excellence. He advised them to treat their appointments as national service and to work toward building a lasting legacy.
The Vice-Chancellor was accompanied by key officials, including the Registrar, Aminu Muhammad Olayinka; the Bursar, Prince Kazeem Popoola; and the Librarian, Dr. Adigun Abdulganiyu. Also present was Abuja-based philanthropist, Alhaji Adedeji Adewale, from Saki.
FUNATO, located in Kajola Local Government Area of Oyo State, is expected to begin academic operations this year, following confirmation from the Federal Ministry of Education.
In an earlier statement, Professor Babayemi said the institution aims to function as a science-driven hub that merges agriculture and technology. He added that FUNATO will run a range of programmes focused on science, technology, and innovation to drive national progress.