…Nigeria’s university count rises to 313

By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

Nigeria’s higher education landscape expanded on Thursday as the National Universities Commission, NUC, formally recognised the Taraba State University of Tropical Agriculture, Science, Technology and Climate Action, Gembu, making it the latest addition to the country’s growing list of universities and pushing the national total to 313 institutions.

Presenting the certificate of recognition to a delegation led by Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, in Abuja, NUC Executive Secretary, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, described the new institution as a strategic response to some of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, including food insecurity, agricultural productivity and climate change.

Ribadu said the university’s specialised focus positions it to become a centre for innovation, research and manpower development in sectors critical to the nation’s economic future.

According to him, the decision by the Taraba State Government to establish a university dedicated to agriculture, science, technology and climate action reflects a clear understanding of emerging global realities and Nigeria’s developmental needs.

“The decision by the state government to establish a university focused on agriculture, science, technology and climate action demonstrates a clear understanding of the issues we face,” Ribadu said.

He noted that the Mambila Plateau’s unique ecological and agricultural environment offers enormous opportunities for practical teaching and research, making the institution well-positioned to contribute solutions to climate-related and food production challenges.

However, the NUC boss cautioned that the recognition does not automatically grant the university permission to commence academic activities.

He explained that the commission would conduct a comprehensive resource verification exercise to assess the adequacy of infrastructure, personnel and learning facilities before approving the institution to admit students or launch academic programmes.

Ribadu also disclosed that copies of the recognition letter would be forwarded to key education-sector agencies, including the Tertiary Education Trust Fund,(TETFund, and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund), among other stakeholders.

The NUC chief urged the Taraba State Government to ensure consistent funding for the new university while sustaining support for existing tertiary institutions in the state, stressing that stable financing remains indispensable to university growth and survival.

Responding, Governor Kefas described the recognition as a major milestone for Taraba State and the Mambila Plateau, saying the institution would help showcase the region’s vast agricultural and ecological potential to both national and international audiences.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to meeting all regulatory requirements set by the NUC and pledged continued investment in both the new university and the existing Taraba State University.

Kefas also revealed plans to streamline the institution’s lengthy name to strengthen its identity and improve administrative efficiency.

“We will continue to partner with you, take your advice and follow due process to ensure this university stands the test of time,” the governor said.

The recognition marks a significant step in Taraba State’s effort to position itself as a hub for agricultural innovation, climate research and technology-driven development, while further expanding access to higher education in Nigeria.