By Peter Duru, Makurdi

Benue state governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has inaugurated a 12-member Task Force to facilitate the smooth take-off of the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (UAST), Ihugh, describing the institution as a strategic investment in the future of the state.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony in Makurdi, Governor Alia said the university would serve as a platform for youth empowerment through education, innovation, research and entrepreneurship.

The Governor noted that the establishment of the institution aligns with his administration’s vision of building a knowledge-driven economy capable of harnessing technology and transforming ideas into opportunities for sustainable development.

According to him, the university was conceived as a centre of excellence in agriculture, science, technology and enterprise development. “The university is more than a physical institution. It is a strategic investment in the future of Benue State and in the dreams of our young people,” Alia said.

“We are building a solution-driven institution that will produce graduates who will create jobs, establish businesses and contribute meaningfully to the growth of our economy,” he added.

Governor Alia said the institution would equip students with practical skills and entrepreneurial capacity needed to drive economic growth and address unemployment.

He further stressed that the university would play a key role in strengthening Benue’s status as the nation’s food basket through cutting-edge research, agricultural innovation, value addition and the promotion of modern farming practices.

The Governor charged members of the Task Force to provide the strategic direction needed for the successful establishment of the university by putting in place the required structures, policies, systems and resources for its effective take-off.

He expressed confidence in the competence and integrity of the committee members and urged them to approach the assignment with dedication, professionalism and patriotism.

Alia also expressed optimism that the institution would evolve into a reference point for academic excellence, entrepreneurship, solution-oriented learning and cutting-edge research in Nigeria and across Africa.

The 12-member Task Force is chaired by Prof. Leonard Shirgba, while the Registrar of UAST, Dr. Johnson Echor, will serve as secretary.