By Faridat Salifu
The Kingdom of the Netherlands has expressed interest in forging partnerships with Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) to enhance education, research, and agricultural development in Nigeria.
The Dutch ambassador to Nigeria, Michel Deelen, expressed this interest last weekend while touring ABUAD’s colleges, Industrial Park, and the Afe Babalola University Multi-System Hospital (AMSH).
He praised the institution’s high-tech facilities, self-sufficiency, and rapid progress over the last 16 years, describing the institution as a benchmark of academic innovation, comparable to leading American universities.
“ABUAD is remarkable in how it integrates technology, infrastructure, and quality education. Its teaching hospital and industrial facilities set a standard for higher education in Nigeria and Africa,” the ambassador said.
Deelen highlighted the role of education in national development and noted the Netherlands’ own success as the second-largest agricultural exporter, despite only a small fraction of the population working in farming. He stressed that strategic investment in human capital, coupled with technological and industrial growth, can drive economic transformation.
The diplomat encouraged students to view education not only as a personal achievement but as a tool to improve their communities and contribute to Nigeria’s future.
“Nigerian professionals are sought worldwide because they can thrive even under challenging conditions. The resilience you develop here will shape you into determined leaders and nation-builders,” Deelen said.
ABUAD founder, Aare Afe Babalola, called for Dutch collaboration to expand the university’s Industrial Park and Research Laboratory, and invited the ambassador to participate in the university’s herbal product and vaccine production initiatives positioning ABUAD as a potential pioneer in African vaccine manufacturing.
