The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has appointed Prof. Oladele Talabi as the Director of the FUNAAB Zoo Park for a three-year tenure, effective October 20th, 2026 to October 19th, 2029.
The appointment, approved by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, is aimed at strengthening the leadership and administration of the Zoo Park while advancing its contributions to teaching, research, wildlife conservation and environmental education.
The University expressed confidence in Talabi’s ability to provide effective academic and administrative leadership, noting that his experience and capacity would contribute to the continued development of the facility and the achievement of its institutional objectives.
Talabi, who represents the Senate on the University’s Governing Council, brings considerable administrative experience to the new role. He previously served as Director of the Institute of Human Resources Development (INHURD), FUNAAB, where he contributed to the University’s administrative and academic activities.
His appointment is expected to support efforts to improve the management of the Zoo Park and strengthen its position as a centre for practical learning, scientific research and public engagement.
As an institution with a mandate to advance agricultural education and research, FUNAAB relies on facilities such as its Zoo Park to provide opportunities for students, researchers and other stakeholders to gain practical knowledge of wildlife, animal behaviour and environmental sustainability.
Under the new leadership, the Zoo Park is expected to continue supporting academic activities while promoting greater awareness of wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting biodiversity.
The facility also has the potential to strengthen research collaboration and provide educational experiences for students, schoolchildren and members of the public interested in wildlife and environmental management.
Furthermore, effective administration of the Zoo Park could enhance its community engagement activities by providing a platform for public education on animal welfare, biodiversity conservation and the relationship between wildlife and the environment.
Talabi’s experience as a former director and his current position as a Senate Representative on the Governing Council are expected to support the discharge of his responsibilities during the three-year tenure.
The appointment underscores FUNAAB’s commitment to strengthening institutional leadership and improving the management of its facilities to support its core mandates of teaching, research and community service.
