The National Universities Commission (NUC) has formally recognised the newly established Taraba State University of Tropical Agriculture, Science, Technology and Climate Action, Gembu, as Nigeria’s 313th university and the 69th state-owned university.
The Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, announced the recognition on Thursday during a ceremony attended by Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, government officials and other stakeholders.
Ribadu said the establishment of the specialised institution reflected the Taraba Government’s commitment to expanding access to higher education while harnessing the state’s vast agricultural and environmental potential.
He described agriculture as critical to Nigeria’s future, particularly in addressing food security challenges and improving productivity in the face of climate change.
“The decision by the Taraba State Government to establish a university focused on agriculture, science, technology and climate action demonstrates a clear understanding of the country’s development priorities.
“Few places in Nigeria offer the unique combination of climate and agricultural potential found on the Mambilla Plateau. The environment provides exceptional opportunities for practical teaching and research,” he said.
The NUC boss, however, clarified that the recognition did not amount to approval for the commencement of academic activities.
According to him, the university must first undergo the commission’s resource verification exercise to confirm that it has the required human and material resources before admitting students.
He added that the institution must also establish its governance structures, including the appointment of principal officers and the constitution of a governing council.
Ribadu urged the Taraba Government to ensure sustainable funding for both the new university and the existing Taraba State University, stressing that higher institutions flourish when financial commitments outlive the administrations that establish them.
He also advised stakeholders to lay a solid foundation for the university by fostering a culture of excellence from inception.
Responding, Gov. Kefas thanked the NUC for facilitating the recognition process and pledged that the state would meet all requirements for the commencement of academic activities.
He described the new university as a strategic investment that would promote education, agriculture, tourism and economic development on the Mambilla Plateau.
According to him, the institution is expected to attract students not only from across Nigeria but also from neighbouring countries, particularly Cameroon.
Kefas assured the commission of the state government’s commitment to providing adequate funding and strengthening partnerships with local and international institutions to ensure the university’s success.
He added that the experience and resources of Taraba State University would be leveraged to support the development of the new institution.
The governor also hinted that the state government might consider shortening the university’s name to make it more concise and easier to identify.
He reiterated that investment in education remained central to his administration’s development agenda, noting that Taraba possessed the land and potential to accommodate more higher institutions.
Source: NAN
