The National Universities Commission (NUC) has formally recognised the newly established Taraba State University of Tropical Agriculture, Science, Technology and Climate Action, located in Gembu, as part of efforts to enhance food security and harness Nigeria’s environmental potential.
The recognition makes the institution the 69th state-owned university and the 313th university in Nigeria.
The Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, spoke at the recognition ceremony held in Abuja, which was attended by the Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas. He said the establishment of the university demonstrated the Taraba State Government’s commitment to expanding access to higher education and harnessing the state’s agricultural and environmental potential.
“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,” Ribadu said.
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According to the NUC boss, the Mambilla Plateau provides exceptional opportunities for practical teaching and research, making it a suitable location for the establishment of the specialised university.
“Few places in Nigeria offer the combination of climate and agricultural potential found on the Mambilla Plateau”
Professor Ribadu, however, cautioned the Taraba State Governor not to regard the recognition granted by the NUC as approval for the commencement of academic activities, emphasising that the institution must undergo resource verification by the commission to ascertain the availability of the required human and material resources before admitting students.
“The university will also need to establish its governance structures, including the appointment of principal officers and the constitution of a governing council.”
Ribadu urged the Taraba State Government to promote a culture of excellence from the inception of the institution, as well as ensure sustainable funding for the new university and the existing Taraba State University.
Speaking, Governor Agbu Kefas commended the NUC for facilitating the recognition process and pledged to meet all requirements for the commencement of academic activities.
“The new university would serve as a strategic investment to promote education, tourism, agriculture and economic development on the Mambilla Plateau,” the governor said.
Governor Kefas said the university would not only serve residents of Taraba State and Nigerians at large but would also attract students from neighbouring countries, especially Cameroon.
He assured the commission of adequate funding for the university, strengthened collaboration with local and international partners, as well as leveraging the experience and resources of the existing Taraba State University to support the development of the new institution.
He added that the new university is a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to education since assuming office and is based on the understanding that education is central to the development of Taraba State.
