The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan, in partnership with ADSA Veterinary Services Konsult Nigeria Ltd and Kexing Animal Health, officially commissioned the Veterinary Medicine Central Laboratory on June 24, 2025, honoring the late Alhaji Chief (Dr.) Suraj Adegoke Adesina, a distinguished veterinary surgeon and alumnus.

The event, held at the laboratory premises of the Faculty, was graced by numerous dignitaries, including Professor Kayode Adebowale, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan; Prof. Peter Olapegba, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration; Alhaja Chief (Mrs.) Aminat Adetope Adesina, wife of the benefactor; Prof. Olufunke E. Ola-Davies, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; traditional leaders such as HRH Oba Jimoh Titiloye, Olu of Igboora; Oba Jamiu Badmus, Oluwasho of Iberekodo; and Oba Emmanuel Okeniyi Ariwoola, Ashawo of Ayete, among others.

Distinguished guests, deans of various faculties, sub-dean, professors, heads of departments, esteemed faculty members and staff, students, friends and family were also present at the event.

In her welcome address, Dean of the Faculty Prof. Olufunke E. Ola-Davies expressed her gratitude for the gathering, stating, It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to our esteemed Faculty to celebrate God's goodness at the commissioning of this landmark project, which was my vision and executed by my late classmate and friend Suraj Adesina. He was dedicated to providing access to drugs and biologicals for veterinary professionals, and this need propelled him to develop the MOU that birthed this laboratory, emphasized Prof. Ola-Davies...May his gentle soul continue to rest in peace.

Prof. Ola-Davies emphasized the motivation behind the laboratory's establishment saying, While we celebrate him, we acknowledge his spouse, Alhaja Aminat Adesina, who saw fit to fulfill his desire in completing this project. This Central Veterinary Laboratory was borne out of a desire to enable and assist improved access to research facilities for the Faculty as a whole and the University at large in the pursuit of excellence.

The benefactor, Alhaji Chief (Dr.) Suraj Adegoke Adesina, who graduated in 1992 from the University of Ibadan's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, was acknowledged for his dedication to veterinary practice and his commitment to community service. His academic journey began in Ansaredeen Primary School, Igboora, followed by Igboora High School. His legacy extends beyond his professional achievements; as a pillar in his community, he inspired many with kindness, generosity, and guidance, stated his profile read during the ceremony.

Also addressing the attendees, Professor Kayode Adebowale, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, also underscored the significance of alumni engagement during the commissioning. "On my way here, I was feeling excited because what we are doing today shows the power of alumni," he stated. In these challenging times, where government resources are stretched thin across over 300 universities in Nigeria, alumni support plays a crucial role.

The vision of the University of Ibadan is to transition into a postgraduate university, and the establishment of this laboratory is a necessary step to enhance our capabilities and advance our research." He further noted that the laboratory would help the institution improve its ranking and promote collaborative research across various fields.

Alhaja Aminat Adetope Adesina, in her remarks, shared her emotions about the laboratory, stating, I am honored to stand here at the naming and commissioning of this central laboratory dedicated to my beloved husbands memory. I am grateful to see my husbands dream become a reality. This laboratory is a testament that Suraju didn't leave this world in vain, and his soul continues to rest in peace."

The ceremony culminated in the unveiling of the signage that read "SURAJ ADESINA RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTRE," symbolizing a new chapter for the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in its commitment to research and public health initiatives. As guests toured the newly commissioned facility, the sentiment shared indicated that this laboratory stands not only as a tribute to Dr. Adesina's remarkable legacy but also as a beacon of opportunity for future generations of veterinary professionals.

In an exclusive interview with CEOAFRICA, Alhaja Aminat Adesina expressed her heartfelt emotions following the commissioning of the laboratory, stating, accomplishing this laboratory today gives me great joy. Since the death of my husband, who passed ten months ago, the prayer and support of many people have made this event a success and reality.

"What birthed the project was when he was awarded as a distinguished veterinarian two years ago by the faculty during the 75th anniversary of the school. He was moved and told me he wanted to have a building in this faculty to stand as a legacy, and it has come to reality today, she remarked.

She further urged the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine to ensure the laboratory is properly maintained, saying, I hereby advise the Faculty on this laudable project of my husband to please help us maintain it well and let it be useful for what my husband planned it for. As the CEO of ADSA Veterinary Services Konsult, we promise to always visit this place every five years to continue the renovation.