The Ibadan Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association has conferred a posthumous Award of Outstanding Legacy on the late Sir Dr. Olatunde Agbato in recognition of his remarkable contributions to veterinary practice and national development.
The award was presented during a courtesy visit to the Agbato family, where the association’s leadership paid tribute to the enduring influence of the late veterinary icon.
President of the association, Dr. Ibikunle Faramade, who led the delegation, described the late Agbato as a phenomenal leader whose impact transcended his lifetime, saying the Association considered it important to formally honour a man whose legacy continues to shape the veterinary profession.
Dr. Faramade noted that Sir Dr. Agbato was a transformative figure in animal health services, particularly in poultry production and diagnostic practices.
According to him, “Dr. Agbato introduced innovations that elevated poultry management in Nigeria to globally compliant standards.”
He added that under Dr. Agbato’s leadership, Animal Care Services Konsult, became the largest private employer of veterinarians in Nigeria. The company’s progressive remuneration system and welfare structure, he said, compelled other private employers to improve their conditions of service.
The alumni president also highlighted the late Agbato’s reputation as a mentor to many veterinarians, stating that he was never threatened by the success of those he guided. He described him as a “lighter of candles” who invested selflessly in the growth of younger colleagues.
Faramade further explained that Agbato’s contributions extended beyond his business interests, influencing national bodies such as the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, and his alma mater, the University of Ibadan. He noted that the late icon received numerous honours during his lifetime, including recognition as both a distinguished alumnus of the Faculty and Alumnus of the Year of the entire University.
He said the posthumous award was the association’s way of affirming that Dr. Agbato remained unforgettable, even in death. According to him, the late veterinary leader’s sixth-year memorial will be observed on January 7, 2026.
Responding on behalf of the family, the matriarch, Dame Olufunmilayo Ayodeji Agbato, expressed appreciation to the association for recognising her husband’s enduring legacy. She described the gesture as a reminder of his lifelong commitment to service, mentorship and professional excellence.
The event ended with the formal presentation of the Outstanding Legacy Award, after which members of the visiting delegation offered prayers and goodwill messages to the family
