NUC Approves New University in Taraba for Agriculture

The National Universities Commission (NUC) officially approved the establishment of the Taraba State University of Tropical Agriculture, Science, and Technology in Gembu on Thursday. The announcement was made by Professor Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, the Executive Secretary of the NUC, during a presentation in Abuja.

The new university will increase the number of universities in Nigeria to 313 and reflects the Taraba State government's commitment to expanding access to higher education, particularly in light of the state's rich agricultural environment. Ribadu emphasized the importance of specialized institutions in addressing Nigeria's agricultural challenges, including food security and climate change.

However, he clarified that the recognition does not equate to immediate operational approval, as the NUC will conduct a resource verification exercise to ensure the university meets necessary requirements. Governor Agbu Kefa noted that the establishment of the university would showcase the Mambila Plateau area, which is largely unknown despite its significant agricultural and ecological value.

The state government is committed to providing consistent funding to support the new institution.