The Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia has stressed the importance of establishing university of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Ihugh, saying the government will ensure its immediate takeoff.
Governor Alia made this known Sunday, December 29, 2024 while speaking at St Winifred's Parrish Ihugh after a thanksgiving Mass in honour of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Denen Aondoakaa.
He said the university, when established, would not only help in producing graduates but would also boost the economy of the host community and the entire state.
He added that engaging young people in the prospects of agriculture has become imperative in ensuring food security, and that the University will produce graduates to carry out more research geared towards improving and transforming livelihood.
The Governor also restated the determination of his government to reduce poverty in the state, adding that he would ensure Benue taps fully into her rich agricultural potentials to maintain her status as Food Basket of the Nation and grow her economy.
Governor Alia warned against illegal taxes by land owners (matching ground), advising that those who have land in Ihugh market should not take undue advantage of the coming of the university and hike prices beyond the reach of buyers.
Earlier in his sermon, Fr. Isaac Shalegh emphasized the importance of coming to God in humility and thanksgiving, saying it was thoughtful that Hon. Denen Aondoakaa returned to God in appreciation.
Top on the highlights of the event was the decoration of Governor Alia, Hon. Denen Aondoakaa, and Sir James Iorpuu in Tiv traditional attire by the laity council of St. Winifred's Parish, Ihugh.
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