The National Universities Commission (NUC) has issued a provisional license for the take-off of the Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, officially making it the 68th state-owned university in Nigeria.
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The newly established institution, located in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area, becomes the second public university in Benue State.
The license was formally presented to the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ode, who represented Governor Hyacinth Alia, during a brief ceremony held in Abuja. Executive Secretary of the NUC, Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, made the presentation.
With the addition of the new institution, the total number of universities in Nigeria has risen to 299. Professor Ribadu underscored the need for strict adherence to quality assurance frameworks and expressed optimism that the university would play a pivotal role in advancing education and agricultural development in the country.
He also outlined the next phase of the process, explaining that the NUC would carry out a detailed assessment of the university’s facilities, manpower, and infrastructure before full academic activities can commence.
Receiving the license, Deputy Governor Ode described the development as a landmark achievement in the state’s quest to expand educational access. He assured the NUC of Benue State’s readiness to fulfill all necessary requirements and establish essential infrastructure to support the university’s growth and mission.