The Department of Forest and Wood Technology, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA has named its Departmental Library after one of its foundation lecturers, late DR. Francis Akinsanmi. At a ceremony on Monday, 30th October 2023, mentees, family members and the traditional ruler of Ile Oluji Kingdom all extolled the exemplary legacies of Dr Akinsanmi describing him as a man of sterling qualities and selfless service.
At the occasion, the family, based on his instruction in his will, donated several acres of land in Ile Oluji to the University and his entire Library and two units of a complete work station to the Department of Forest and Wood Technology where he served as one of the pioneer lecturers in 1983.
Dr Francis Akinsanmi was born into the family of late pa john Akinsanmi in Ile Oluji, Ondo State on the 21st of November, 1946. After his primary, secondary and tertiary education he joined the service of the University of Ibadan as an assistant lecturer in 1974. While still in the service of the University of Ibadan, Dr Akinsanmi took a sabbatical leave in 1983 to join hands with the pioneer staff of FUTA, to develop a program in Forestry and Wood Technology, he thus served as the first Acting Head of Department of FWT in FUTA a position he held until 1984.
In the Department of Forestry and wood Technology, Dr Akinsanmi nurtured a number of erudite scholars within and outside FUTA. Professor Shadrach Olufemi Akindele, one of the leading lights in the field, was mentored by Dr Akinsanmi.
The vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Sunday Oluyamo said if the world could have more men like the late scholar the world would be a better place. The Vice Chancellor said Dr Akinsanmi was a truly selfless man whose unwavering dedication to helping others has left an indelible mark on the community. She thanked the family of the deceased saying the acts of Dr Akinsanmi kindness has not gone unnoticed.
In a glowing tribute, the Jegun of Ile-Oluji Kingdom, Oba Dr Olufaderin Adetimehin, said it’s a proud feeling to be celebrating one of the illustrious sons of Ile Oluji even in death. Oba Adetimehin noted that all the legacies Dr Akinsanmi left behind are all positive ones that are worthy of emulation. He thanked the immediate family for identifying with the traditional institution and also appreciated FUTA management for appreciating the gestures and selfless acts of Dr Akinsanmi.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Akintunde Akinsanmi said the family was grateful to everyone particularly the Ile Oluji Monarch, the FUTA community; Club seventy-one and all other well-wishers. He said being an Alumnus himself he stands with pride relating to the worthy character of his late father. He said the donation of the library to FUTA typifies the selflessness and the enduring legacies of the late Dr Akinsanmi.
The University Librarian, Dr Robert Awoyemi, Dean SAAT, Professor, Olwatooyin Oludahunsi, Professor Jonathan Oyenkwelu, HOD, FWT, Professor Adesoji Adedayo were also at the event.
