By Donald Kumun
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s address at the combined 22nd, 23rd, and 24th convocation ceremonies of Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi, at the twilight of 2024, marked a pivotal moment in the institution’s history.
His proclamations during the event underscored his administration’s commitment to advancing education and agriculture in Benue State, drawing inspiration from the legacy of the late Governor Moses Orshio Adasu, the University’s founder.
Benue State Government, during the Late Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu’s administration, with the enactment of BSU’s Edict No. 1 of 1991, heralded the University’s take off in the 1992/1993 academic year with four faculties, namely: Arts, Education, Science, and Social Sciences.
Governor Alia reaffirmed his dedication to revitalizing the educational sector in Benue State. Already efforts have reached advanced stage in the task of face-lifting the Benue State University Teaching Hospital to meet international standards, aiming to enhance the quality of medical education and healthcare services.
Furthermore, the Governor emphasized the importance of functional education, tailored to the State and national developmental needs, by ensuring that graduates are equipped with relevant skills for the modern workforce. This approach mirrors the vision of late Governor Adasu, who established the institution, to provide accessible and quality education to the people of the State.
Recognizing Agriculture as the backbone of Benue’s economy, Governor Alia unveiled strategies to transform the sector, hinting on the establishment of a State-owned University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology, Ihugh, in Vandeikya local government area of the State. He emphasized the State’s potential, stating that, “We don’t have oil, but we have the soil,” underscoring the importance of harnessing agricultural resources for economic growth, promoting technological innovation, and contributing to national food security.
Already, Governor Alia has been providing subsidies and support to farmers, aiming to boost productivity and ensure food security. This initiative reflects a commitment to industrialize the State through agriculture, and massive rural development, aligning with his campaign promises.
The Governor paid tribute to the late Governor Moses Orshio Adasu, acknowledging his visionary leadership in founding Benue State University. He expressed his commitment to uphold and expand upon Adasu’s legacy by fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence, and community development.
To bring education closer to the people, and cater for the growing demand for higher education at the grassroots, the Governor announced plans to establish a Benue State University campus at Adikpo in Kwande Local Government Area of the State. He emphasized that, this strategic expansion, will enhance access to education and strengthen the University’s role in developing human capital base across the state.
Governor Alia, also revealed that, his administration, plans to establish Satellite Campuses of BSU in Benue North-East, and Benue-South Senatorial Districts, to bring education closer to the people, in the remote areas of the State.
He awarded full scholarships to the 44 First-Class Graduates to enable them to pursue their master’s degrees, at Benue State University, in recognition of their outstanding achievements, declaring that it is a token of the State Government’s commitment to promoting intellectual growth and leadership.
Governor Alia, also donated and released 500 computers to the institution’s Computer-Based Test (CBT) center, to further enhance digital learning and research at the university. It is a deliberate investment that will empower the youths, students, and faculties, in embracing the future of technology-driven education.
The Governor’s pronouncements, at the convocation, reflect a comprehensive strategy to advance education and agriculture in Benue State.
According to him, the mission is to strengthen food security and reduce post-harvest losses in Benue State. “I also commissioned as part of activities marking the Convocation ceremonies, the BSU CEFTER Advanced Laboratory and the BSU CEFTER Food Technology Innovation Complex, at the Centre for Food Technology and Research (CEFTER), in Makurdi.
“This state-of-the-art facilities, supported by the World Bank, will revolutionize how we handle and preserve agricultural produce, ensuring that our farmers can fully benefit from their hard work. By embracing cutting-edge research and innovation, we are addressing the critical issue of post-harvest losses and improving the quality and shelf life of our food products”.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the World Bank for their support and commitment to this initiative, which will not only improve food preservation but also boost our local economy, create jobs, and enhance the lives of our people”, he said.
By drawing inspiration from the foundational work of late Governor Moses Orshio Adasu, and in line with his 7-Points Agenda, Governor Alia aims to build upon this legacy, by fostering sustainable development, and improving the quality of lives of the people, of Benue State.
Donald Kumun, is the Principal Special Assistant to the Benue State Governor on Print Media.
