The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted Benue State a provisional license to establish a new state-owned institution—Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, to be located in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area.
The Executive Secretary of the NUC, Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, presented the license on Wednesday to Deputy Governor Samuel Ode, who represented Governor Hyacinth Alia at the event.
According to Ribadu, the new institution becomes the second state-owned university in Benue and brings the total number of state universities in Nigeria to 68, and total universities nationwide to 299.
“We expect this university to fully comply with our quality assurance standards, uphold strong character development, and maintain sound academic management,” Ribadu said.
“I have no doubt that this institution will make a significant impact—particularly in agriculture and national development.”
He added that once the state is ready, the NUC would send a verification team to assess the facilities, infrastructure, staffing, and overall readiness of the university.
Governor Alia, through his deputy, described the development as a milestone in Benue’s commitment to academic excellence.
“For those familiar with the passion of the Benue people for education, you will understand how much this recognition means to us,” the governor said.
“We are deeply grateful and assure the NUC of our commitment to fully implement the university’s mandate. We will swiftly provide the needed infrastructure and platforms to ensure this university achieves its full potential.”
The establishment of the university marks a strategic move to enhance access to higher education and drive innovation in agriculture, science, and technology within the state and the broader region.
