By Abdullahi Lukman
The Director-General of the Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan, Prof. Zachariah Yaduma, has called on newly admitted students to demonstrate dedication and innovation in addressing global forest preservation and climate change challenges.
Yaduma made the call during the matriculation ceremony for 333 students admitted for the 2025/2026 academic session.
Of the total, 234 were enrolled in National Diploma (ND) programmes, while 99 were admitted into Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes.
He urged the students to uphold hard work, integrity and environmental responsibility, assuring them that the institution is equipped to prepare them for employment, innovation and entrepreneurship in a rapidly evolving world.
According to him, the college was established not only to award certificates but to build character, competence and capacity in forestry and environmental management.
Describing the students as future custodians of
Nigeria’s forests and natural resources, Yaduma emphasized the institution’s legacy of producing graduates who have contributed significantly to forestry, environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Guest lecturer Prof. Lateef Sanni, Executive Director
and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute, highlighted Nigeria’s 3.7 per cent annual deforestation rate, one of the highest globally.
He noted that while forests covered about 30 to 35 per cent of the country’s land area in the 1960s, current forest cover has fallen below 10 per cent.
Sanni called on tertiary institutions to intensify teaching on sustainability, environmental ethics, research and innovation, urging students to take responsibility for protecting and advancing Nigeria’s forest resources.
In his remarks, the Provost, Dr Ibraheem Lawal, said the college has developed a strategic blueprint to reposition the institution in line with modern tertiary education standards, including major infrastructural development.
He disclosed that the college recently underwent resource inspection as part of efforts to secure approval to introduce a Science and Laboratory Technology programme aimed at increasing enrollment.
Lawal reiterated the institution’s zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice, indecent dressing and other misconduct.
He stressed that all programmes are practically oriented and that failure in any practical component results in failure of the course, adding that certificates are awarded only to students found worthy in character and learning.
The ceremony featured the administration of the oath of allegiance to the matriculating students and the recognition of outstanding students across departments.
