Meet the trailblazing woman who shattered barriers and blazed a remarkable path in the world of animal breeding and genetics in Nigeria. 

Imagine a world where the fields of animal breeding, genetics, and biotechnology were predominantly male-dominated. Now, picture Prof. Funmi Adebambo, the embodiment of perseverance and innovation, as she became the very first female Professor of Animal Breeding and Genetics and Biotechnology in Nigeria.

Her journey of transformation began at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University's Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, where she embarked on a mission that would leave an indelible mark on Nigeria's agricultural landscape. In an astonishing feat, she successfully developed improved indigenous pig breeds within her first 16 years of dedicated service. These resilient breeds were tailor-made for Nigeria's unique agricultural ecosystem.

Prof. Funmi Adebambo didn't stop there; she dedicated her expertise to her beloved country, wearing many hats as a lecturer, research scientist, and team leader. Her mission? To revolutionize Nigeria's poultry industry. With unwavering support from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, the Gates' Foundation, and the International Livestock Research Institute in Ethiopia, she embarked on a groundbreaking journey.

The fruits of her labor were profound. The improved indigenous chicken breeds she developed were meticulously tested across the nation, ultimately earning recognition as the second animal breed registered in Nigeria by the Nigeria's Plant, Animal Breeds, and Fisheries Registration Council in 2018. This achievement marked a pivotal moment in the nation's agricultural history.

Prof. Funmi Adebambo is not just a pioneer; she's a visionary leader. As the Principal Investigator for Poultry Breeds development in Nigeria and Co-PI for African Chicken Genetics Gain for Nigeria, she continues to drive innovation and progress in her field.

Her accolades and honors are a testament to her unparalleled dedication. She's been honored with prestigious Fellowship Awards from the Commonwealth and the Royal Society of England. Her wall is adorned with awards from the Genetics Society of Nigeria, Biotechnology Society of Nigeria, Institute of Animal Science, and Animal Science Association of Nigeria.

But it doesn't end there. Prof. Funmi Adebambo has earned her place on the Taxonomy Advisory group for African Animal Genetic Resources in Kenya and the National Animal Genetic Resources Advisory group in Nigeria. Her influence extends far beyond her laboratory, shaping policies and practices that will benefit generations to come.

In 2012 and 2018, she received the Research Productivity Award from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria. Her exceptional work was further acknowledged with the Excellent Research award from Nigeria's Institute of Animal Science.

Prof. Funmi Adebambo isn't just a remarkable scientist; she's a symbol of what can be achieved when passion, dedication, and vision converge. Her legacy will forever inspire future generations to push boundaries and pave the way for a brighter future in the world of animal breeding, genetics, and biotechnology.

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