The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted Benue State a provisional licence to establish a new state university.
The Executive Secretary of NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, presented the licence to the state’s Deputy Governor, Samuel Ode, who stood in for Governor Hyacinth Alia at the event.
Ribadu stated that the institution, Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (BUSAST), located in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area, becomes the second state-owned university in Benue.
He noted that the new university brings the number of state-owned universities in Nigeria to 68, with the total number of universities nationwide now standing at 299.
“We expect that it will adhere strictly to the guidelines set forth for quality assurance, character development, and overall management of academic programmes,” he said.
“I have no doubt that this university will play a vital role in shaping the future of education, especially in agriculture and national development.”
Ribadu added that once the state is ready, the commission would dispatch a team to assess the facilities and infrastructure available for take-off.
“We will look at the communities, facilities, infrastructure, human capital, staff members, and other resources you have,” he said.
Governor Alia, represented by Ode, described the development as a major milestone in the state’s educational journey.
“For those who know the people of Benue and our quest for education, you will understand the joy with which we receive this recognition that has been accorded by the Commission,” he said.
“We are indeed very grateful and want to assure the Executive Secretary of the NUC that Benue State will pursue the mandate of its university with all the zeal required.”
“We shall, in no time, put in place the necessary amenities and platforms that will enable us to drive the agenda and help this university to reach its full potential,” he added.
(NAN)