Abuja, Nigeria: The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted a provisional license to the Benue State Government for the establishment of the Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology. The institution will be sited in Ihugh, within the Vandeikya Local Government Area.
The Executive Secretary of the NUC, Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, formally handed over the license to Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia during a presentation ceremony held in Abuja.
Professor Ribadu commended the state’s efforts to expand access to higher education and expressed confidence in the university’s potential to drive agricultural innovation and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“We must ensure that this university is not merely one among many, but a model institution defined by excellence in learning, character building, and social impact,” he said. He further encouraged the state government and university leadership to maintain rigorous academic standards, noting the NUC’s ongoing commitment to providing policy direction and institutional support.
Governor Alia, represented at the event by his Deputy, Dr. Samuel Ode, reiterated the administration’s resolve to deliver on the university’s founding vision. He underscored the importance of integrating science and technology into agriculture to meet contemporary challenges.
“In today’s world, agriculture must be driven by innovation. This university is strategically designed to meet that demand,” Dr. Ode stated.
He added that the state government is actively putting in place essential infrastructure and support mechanisms to ensure the institution commences academic activities without delay.
By Enoch odesola/May 15,2025
