Director-General, Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan, Prof. Zachariah Yaduma, has said enormous challenges facing the world in preserving forests and addressing climate change require the dedication and innovation of forestry professionals.
Yaduma made the assertion at the matriculation ceremony held for 333 fresh students admitted into the college for the 2025/26 academic session.
Some 234 students were offered admission to pursue various National Diploma (ND) programmes while 99 others were admitted for Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes.
The Director-General urged the new students to embrace the values of hard work, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility toward the environment.
He assured the students that the college has all it takes to prepare them, not just for employment, but for innovation and entrepreneurship in a rapidly changing world.
“The Federal College of Forestry was established not merely to award certificates, but to build character, competence, and capacity.
“We have a rich legacy of producing graduates who have gone on to make remarkable contributions to the field of forestry, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.
“As you embark on this academic journey, remember that you are not just students; you are the custodians of our forests, the guardians of our environment, and the future leaders who will shape the destiny of our nation’s natural resources,” he added.
Also speaking, the Guest Lecturer, Prof. Lateef Sanni, the Executive Director/CEO, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI), charged both new and old students to unlock hidden treasures in forestry.
Sanni said that Nigeria’s annual 3.7 per cent deforestation rate ranks among the highest globally, noting that the country had about 30 per cent to 35 per cent of forest in the 1960s, but the current Nigerian forest cover was below 10 per cent.
He charged universities and colleges in Nigeria to intensify teaching on sustainability, environmental ethics, and also promote research and innovation.
“As a student matriculating into forestry education, you need to accept the responsibility to protect, manage, and advance Nigeria’s forest resources for generations to come,” Sanni said.
Earlier, the Provost of the College, Dr Ibraheem Lawal, in his remarks, said that the College had developed a strategic blueprint aimed at repositioning the institution to align with modern tertiary education standards through massive infrastructural development.
He added that the College had undergone a resource inspection as part of efforts to secure approval to commence the Science and Laboratory Technology (SLT) programme, an initiative aimed at significantly boosting student enrollment.
The provost warned that the College has zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice, indecent dressing, and other forms of misconduct.
“Our programmes are practical oriented, and failure in any practical component amounts to failure in the course.
“Also, our certificates are awarded only to students found worthy in character and learning.
“As you have worked hard to reach this stage, I encourage you not to relent. Maintain focus, discipline, and a high academic spirit, and ensure you finish strong,” he said.
The highlight of the occasion was the signing of oath of allegiance by the matriculating students and recognition of outstanding students from various departments in the college.
By Olumide Ajayi