The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved a new state university for Benue State, giving it a provisional licence to begin operations. This new university is named Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology and will be located in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area.
The licence was officially presented by the Executive Secretary of NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, to the Deputy Governor of Benue, Samuel Ode, who represented Governor Hyacinth Alia during the event.
This development makes it the second state-owned university in Benue, and increases the number of state universities in Nigeria to 68. The total number of universities in Nigeria now stands at 299.
According to the NUC boss, the university is expected to maintain academic quality, proper management, and character development. He also mentioned that when the state is ready, the Commission will send a team to inspect the university’s facilities, infrastructure, staff strength, and resources.
This news is a big step forward for education in Nigeria, especially in the areas of agriculture and science. It also brings more hope for local students in Benue who wish to gain admission into a recognised institution without leaving their state. With rising demand for higher education and the importance of agriculture to Nigeria’s economy, the approval of this institution could help address both educational and economic development goals.
The Deputy Governor expressed the state’s joy, saying that the approval is a major achievement for Benue people who are passionate about education.
He gave the assurance that the state government will put everything in place, including infrastructure and learning facilities, to support the growth of the university.
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This update on university approval in Nigeria highlights the country’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to higher education and improving academic opportunities for young Nigerians.