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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted recognition to Taraba State’s proposed university focused on agriculture, climate action and technology, marking a major milestone in the state government’s efforts to expand access to higher education and promote agricultural development.
Speaking during the presentation of the recognition letter, Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, commended the Taraba State Government for establishing the institution, describing it as a strategic response to Nigeria’s pressing food security and environmental challenges.
He said the university’s focus on agriculture and climate issues reflects a clear understanding of the critical role the sector plays in Nigeria’s future development.
He said: “Few sectors are as important to Nigeria’s future as agriculture, yet we face many challenges related to food security and agricultural productivity. Climate change is making many of these challenges even more urgent.”
Prof. Ribadu said the decision to site the university in Gembu on the Mambilla Plateau was particularly significant because of the area’s unique climate and agricultural potential. “Few places in Nigeria offer the combination of climate and agricultural potential found on the Mambilla Plateau.
“As a veterinarian, I know that Gembu has the highest density of cattle in this country. The environment provides exceptional opportunities for hands-on teaching and research,” he stated.
The NUC boss noted that the region’s natural environment could serve as an extension of the university’s teaching and research infrastructure, creating opportunities for innovation in agriculture, livestock production and climate studies.
However, he stressed that the advantages of the location must be supported by sustained investments in infrastructure and accessibility to ensure the institution’s long-term success.
He also clarified that recognition by the commission does not automatically authorise the university to begin academic activities.
“Recognition is an important milestone, but it is not the same as approval to commence academic activities.
“Before students can be admitted, the commission must conduct a resource verification exercise to confirm that the required human and material resources are in place,” he explained.
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The Executive Secretary urged the state government to invite the commission for resource verification when preparations are completed and assured it of continued support through the NUC’s quality assurance and advisory frameworks.
He further advised the government to provide adequate funding for the new institution while maintaining support for Taraba State University. “Experience has shown that universities thrive when funding commitments are sustained by the administrations that establish them. The goal should be to create an institution that will continue to flourish for generations,” he said.
Calling for a strong foundation for the institution, he urged all stakeholders to embrace a culture of excellence from the outset. “Once the foundation is weak, you will have a weak structure. Therefore, the foundation of this university must be excellent,” he added.
Responding, Governor Agbu Kefas expressed delight over the recognition, describing it as a significant step towards realizing one of his administration’s key educational objectives.
The governor said education had remained a top priority since he assumed office in 2023 and pledged to fast-track all processes required to ensure the university takes off successfully.
“My heart is full of joy. We are committed to ensuring that all the necessary steps are taken for this institution to commence operations. Education was top on my agenda when I came into office in 2023, and it remains a priority today,” he said.
Kefas noted that beyond providing educational opportunities, the university would help showcase the Mambilla Plateau to Nigerians and the wider world. “There are many people in Nigeria who do not know where the Mambilla Plateau is. Through this university, every Nigerian will have the opportunity to see what God has given us in this place,” he said.
The governor also welcomed the commission’s observations regarding the institution’s lengthy proposed name, indicating that the state government would review and simplify it.
He assured the NUC that Taraba State would continue to work closely with the commission and comply with all regulatory requirements necessary for the university’s eventual take-off.
“We will continue to partner with you, work with your advice and guidance, and follow the process that will make this university stand the test of time,” he said.
The recognition represents a crucial step in the establishment of the institution, which is expected to become a centre for excellence in agriculture, climate action, research and technological innovation on the Mambilla Plateau.
