In a remarkable show of appreciation for a legacy of transparent leadership and outstanding infrastructural achievements, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has named a landmark structure in honour of its 6th Substantive Vice-Chancellor, Professor Felix Kolawole Salako.
The Academic Building Complex I has been renamed the Professor Kolawole Salako Academic Building Complex, recognising the immense contributions of the man fondly referred to as “Mr. Project.” During his tenure from November 1, 2017, to October 31, 2022, Professor Salako completed over 60 infrastructural projects across the campus, earning him widespread acclaim.
A distinguished Professor of Soil Physics and Fellow of both the Soil Science Society of Nigeria and the Agricultural Society of Nigeria, Professor Salako’s tenure left an indelible mark on FUNAAB. The 2022 Visitation Panel White Paper commended his transformative leadership, highlighting his efforts in raising the University’s global academic profile and delivering noteworthy infrastructural and administrative milestones.
His achievements were earlier celebrated in July 2024, when the College of Plant Science and Crop Production (COLPLANT) published a book titled Contemporary Issues in University Administration and Research: A Festschrift in Honour of Professor Felix Kolawole Salako. The publication chronicled his groundbreaking research, innovative educational programmes, and commitment to campus development.
At the Monument Naming ceremony, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, HRM Oba Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi, Odundun IV, the Aragbiji of Iragbiji Land, commended Professor Salako’s visionary leadership. The monarch noted key projects executed under Salako’s administration, including the construction of a 7-billion-litre dam, the extension of the Senate Building, and the establishment of the Department of Geology.
“Professor Salako’s tenure was marked by an unwavering commitment to enhancing FUNAAB’s academic, infrastructural, and operational capacities,” Oba Olabomi said.
Professor Salako’s illustrious career included serving as the pioneer Director of the Centre for Community-Based Farming Scheme (COBFAS) and Director of the Agricultural Media Resources and Extension Centre (AMREC). His leadership was instrumental in securing the World Bank-sponsored African Centre of Excellence (ACE) grant, leading to the establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment (CEADESE), equipped with cutting-edge facilities like Nigeria’s only Isotope Analyzer.
A prolific scholar with over 90 publications in reputable journals, conference proceedings, and technical reports, Professor Salako has also been recognised internationally, including his listing in Marquis Who’s Who in Science and Engineering (2005-2006). He served as a consultant to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and as the Southwest Coordinator for the African Cassava Agronomy Initiative (ACAI) under the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).
His administration also saw the launch of FUNAAB Radio 89.5FM in 2018 and the rehabilitation of critical water infrastructure, to ensure a steady supply of potable water on campus.
After completing his tenure, Professor Salako took a sabbatical leave at IITA before returning to FUNAAB in 2024 to continue his passion for teaching, research, and community service.
This honour has cemented Professor Salako’s legacy as a transformative leader whose vision continues to inspire FUNAAB’s quest for academic excellence and innovation.
