By Funmilayo Adeyemi
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has formally recognised the newly established Taraba State University of Tropical Agriculture, Science, Technology and Climate Action, Gembu, as the 69th state-owned university and the 313th university in Nigeria.
The Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, announced this at a recognition ceremony attended by Gov. Agbu Kefas of Taraba, government officials and stakeholders.
Ribadu said the establishment of the university demonstrated the Taraba Government’s commitment to expanding access to higher education and harnessing the state’s agricultural and environmental potential.
According to him, agriculture remains critical to Nigeria’s future, especially in addressing food security challenges and improving productivity amid the effects of climate change.
“The decision by the state government to establish a university focused on agriculture, science, technology and climate action demonstrates a clear understanding of the challenges facing the country.
“Few places in Nigeria offer the combination of climate and agricultural potential found on the Mambilla Plateau.
“The environment provides exceptional opportunities for practical teaching and research, making it a suitable location for a specialised institution of this nature,” he said.
The NUC boss, however, noted that recognition of the university did not amount to approval for the commencement of academic activities.
He explained that the institution must undergo resource verification by the commission to ascertain the availability of the required human and material resources before admitting students.
“Before students can be admitted, the commission must conduct resource verification to confirm that the required human and material resources are in place.
“The university will also need to establish its governance structures, including the appointment of principal officers and the constitution of a governing council,” he said.
Ribadu urged the Taraba Government to ensure sustainable funding for both the new university and the existing Taraba State University, stressing that institutions thrive when financial commitments outlive the administrations that establish them.
He also advised stakeholders to lay a solid foundation for the institution by promoting a culture of excellence from inception.
Responding, Gov. Kefas expressed appreciation to the NUC for facilitating the recognition process and pledged to meet all requirements for the commencement of academic activities.
The governor said education remained a top priority of his administration, noting that the new university would serve as a strategic investment to promote education, tourism, agriculture and economic development on the Mambilla Plateau.
He said the institution would not only serve Taraba residents but also attract students from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries, particularly Cameroon.
Kefas assured the commission that the state government would provide adequate funding for the university and strengthen collaboration with local and international partners to ensure its success.
He added that the state would leverage the experience and resources of Taraba State University to support the development of the new institution.
The governor also hinted that the state government might review the university’s name to make it shorter and more manageable.
Kefas noted that Taraba had sufficient land and potential to accommodate more higher institutions, stressing that investment in education remained central to the state’s development agenda.(NAN) www.nannews.ng
Edited by Deji Abdulwahab