Otitoju Femi
The Department of Private Law, Faculty of Law, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Ekiti State, Nigeria held its highly anticipated annual programme on May 21, 2025, with themed “Lecturers One-on-One with the Finalists.”
The event which took place at the Faculty of Law complex saw a wide range of attendees, including university dignitaries, faculty staff, and the graduating Class of 2025.
In her opening address, Head of Department, Dr. A.O. Kehinde, extended a warm welcome to the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olubunmi Shitu, other principal officers, Dean of the Faculty, Professor Abifarin, faculty members and students.
She emphasized the significance of the occasion, noting that this year’s programme was uniquely designed to celebrate the pioneering set of students, the Class of 2025 who had demonstrated exceptional leadership, decorum and consistency throughout their academic journey.
However, Dr. Kehinde lauded the Class of 2025 for fostering a positive student-lecturer relationship, creating unforgettable teaching experiences and making learning enjoyable.
Dr. Kehinde urged the graduating law graduates to hold on to the values they had learned during their time at FUOYE.
She said: “You have all made teaching fun, and it is a pleasure to witness your growth from freshers to graduates.
“This is a proof that hard work pays.
“As you move forward in your careers, remember that determination, consistency, competency, and teamwork are essential in achieving success in any endeavour.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Kehinde took the opportunity to express her gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shittu , as well as other university management members, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for SPRIL, for their unwavering support.
She also thanked Professor Abifarin, the Dean of the Faculty of Law, for approving the programme.
Speaking at the event, Professor Abifarin congratulated the graduating students for their resilience and commitment.
He shared his pride in their exposure to various career paths, advising them to consider future roles in academia, administration, teaching, or the judiciary.
Prof. Abifarin acknowledged the achievements of Abigail, a student who had considered leaving the law programme but was encouraged to forge ahead by the faculty, ultimately reaching her final year.
“I congratulate Abigail for her courage,” he said while encouraging students to remember FUOYE as their foundation and to give back to the university.
In his remarks, Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shittu, commended the Department for organizing the event and spoke highly of the Class of 2025 as the “best class” at the moment.
He said: “This profession is one that requires creativity and confidence, and I believe you all have the potential to stand out.”
Professor Shittu encouraged the graduates to remain confident in their professional journeys while assuring them that the university was committed to ensuring their transition smoothly into the next phase of their careers, including being called to the bar.
Also, Professor Shittu emphasized the importance of students serving as good ambassadors for the university, noting that their actions and achievements would reflect the values instilled in them at FUOYE, saying “always remember that you are a product of this school. Make sure you give back and represent us well wherever you go.”
The event marked another successful milestone for the Faculty of Law as it would continue to foster academic excellence and prepare its students for successful careers in the legal profession.
Photo Credit: Toluwanimi Bamigbola
