The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted a provisional licence to Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (BSUAST), increasing Nigeria's total number of universities to 299.

The licence was presented on Wednesday by NUC Executive Secretary, Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, to Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, who was represented by Deputy Governor Samuel Ode at the ceremony.

BSUAST, located in Ihugh, Vandeikaya local government area, becomes Benue State's second state-owned university and the 68th state-owned university in Nigeria.

During the presentation, Professor Ribadu emphasized that the new institution must fulfill its mandate of producing graduates who will contribute to Nigeria's food security. He advised the university management to collaborate closely with the NUC, particularly for resource verification and program accreditation.

"With the right mentorship and funding, Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology should become the best university for agriculture, science and technology in the country, in no distant time," Ribadu stated.

Deputy Governor Ode, speaking on behalf of Governor Alia, affirmed that quality education remains a top priority for Benue State. He assured the NUC of the state government's commitment to supporting the university's development.

"We will continue to partner with NUC to develop the broad mandate of the regulatory commission which oversees all Universities in Nigeria. We shall never disappoint you regarding this mandate," Ode said.

The establishment of BSUAST is expected to enhance agricultural education and research in Benue State, often referred to as Nigeria's food basket, while expanding access to higher education for Nigerian students.