Campus News

BUA MD rewards UNILORIN student with job offer

The Managing Director, BUA Foods Plc, Engr Dele Abioye, has offered a 300 level student of the Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Ilorin, Omoniyi Abdulsalam Adeyemi, mentorship and job assurance, for his outstanding performance in the Talent-Hunts Quiz Competition organised for students of the Department, alongside seventeen others. 

Engr Abioye made the offer last Thursday (March 20, 2025) during his presentation at the Food Engineering 2nd Public Lecture held at the New Science Lecture Theatre.

               Speaking on the theme, “Food Engineer’s journey: From Factory floor to Food Business Leadership”, Engr Abioye, who shared insights into his professional journey, emphasised the importance of technical expertise, leadership skills, and strategic decision-making in transitioning from engineering roles to executive positions in the food industry.

According to him, “A food engineer is not just a problem solver in the factory but a key player in shaping the future of the food industry.”

Engr Abioye said, “To move from the factory floor to leadership, one must combine innovation with business acumen, understand market trends, and develop strong managerial capabilities.”

While declaring the programme open, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry through practical learning experiences.

Prof. Egbewole, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Moji Bakare Odunola, emphasised the importance of industry-driven education in preparing students for leadership roles in the food sector.

In his remarks, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Prof. Jamiu Odusote, emphasised that the event was “a testament to our commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that our students are well-equipped for leadership roles in the food sector”.

He said, “As the global food industry continues to evolve, the role of food engineers is no longer limited to factory operations. Rather, we are seeing engineers take up strategic leadership positions, driving innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in food production and distribution.”

Earlier in his welcome address, the Ag. Head of the Department of Food Engineering, Dr M. S. Sanusi, praised the significance of the lecture series in bridging the gap between academia and industry.

Dr Sanusi said, “We are not just processing food; we are ensuring that future generations will have enough to eat. And today’s lecture will further illuminate the critical role of food engineering in achieving national and continental food security goals.” He noted that such engagements help prepare students for leadership roles in the food sector.

Among the dignitaries that attended the programme were the pioneer Head of the Department of Food Engineering, Prof. M. O. Sunmonu, members of staff of BUA Company Plc, alumni members of the Department, stakeholders of the Department, as well as students.