By Erewunmi Peace

In a historic move marking the beginning of academic operations at the newly established Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji (FUADSI), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Professor Mufutau Olaoye Atayese as the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

Prof. Atayese, who currently serves as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development) at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), brings decades of academic and administrative experience to his new role. His appointment is seen as a strategic step toward setting a strong foundational structure for FUADSI, which aims to specialize in agricultural innovation, rural development, and sustainable studies.

An accomplished scholar and university administrator, Prof. Atayese has contributed significantly to FUNAAB’s growth, particularly in infrastructural expansion and academic partnerships. His leadership at FUADSI is expected to align with Nigeria’s national goals for food security, youth empowerment, and rural transformation.

FUADSI, located in Iragbiji, Osun State, is one of the recently approved federal universities aimed at expanding access to quality tertiary education in agriculture and development-focused disciplines.

Stakeholders in the education sector and local communities have expressed optimism about Prof. Atayese’s appointment, applauding the federal government for selecting a seasoned academic to lead the new institution.

Further announcements regarding the university’s academic calendar, faculty recruitment, and program offerings are expected in the coming weeks.