The Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan, on Wednesday, matriculated 333 students for its 2025/26 academic session.
Two hundred and thirty-four (234) students were offered admission to pursue various National Diploma (ND) programmes, while 99 others were admitted for Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes.
In his remarks, the Director-General, Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) and Visitor to the college, Prof. Zachariah Yaduma, urged the new students to embrace the values of hard work, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility toward the environment.
Yaduma noted that the challenges facing the world in preserving forests and addressing climate change are enormous, which require the dedication and innovation of forestry professionals.
He assured the students that the college has all it takes to prepare them, not just for employment, but for innovation and entrepreneurship in a rapidly changing world.
“The Federal College of Forestry was established not merely to award certificates, but to build character, competence, and capacity,” he said.
“We have a rich legacy of producing graduates who have gone on to make remarkable contributions to the field of forestry, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.
“As you embark on this academic journey, remember that you are not just students; you are the custodians of our forests, the guardians of our environment, and the future leaders who will shape the destiny of our nation’s natural resources,” he added.
Also speaking, the Guest Lecturer, Prof. Lateef Sanni, the Executive Director/CEO, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI), charged both new and old students to unlock hidden treasures in forestry.
Sanni lamented that Nigeria’s annual 3.7 per cent deforestation rate ranks among the highest globally, noting that the country had about 30-35 per cent of forest in the 1960s, but the current Nigerian forest cover is below 10 per cent.
He charged universities and colleges in Nigeria to intensify teaching on sustainability, environmental ethics, and also promote research and innovation.
“As a student, matriculating into forestry education, you need to accept the responsibility to protect, manage, and advance Nigeria’s forest resources for generations to come,” he said.
Earlier, the Provost of the college, Dr. Ibraheem Lawal, in his remarks, said that the College has developed a strategic blueprint aimed at repositioning the institution to align with modern tertiary education standards through massive infrastructural development.
He added that the College had undergone a resource inspection as part of efforts to secure approval to commence the Science and Laboratory Technology (SLT) programme, an initiative aimed at significantly boosting student enrolment.
The Provost warned that the College has zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice, indecent dressing, and other forms of misconduct.
“Our programmes are practically oriented, and failure in any practical component amounts to failure in the course. Also, our certificates are awarded only to students found worthy in character and learning.
“As you have worked hard to reach this stage, I encourage you not to relent. Maintain focus, discipline, and a high academic spirit, and ensure you finish strong,” he said.
The occasion featured the signing of an oath of allegiance by the matriculating students and recognition of outstanding students from various departments in the college.
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