Benue State is set for a major boost in education and economic development with the establishment of the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (UAST), Ihugh.
The institution, championed by Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, is designed to drive innovation in food production, agribusiness, science and technology while empowering young people with skills relevant to modern development.
The vision for UAST is to become a center of excellence in agricultural research and technological innovation that responds to national priorities in food security and sustainability.
The university will groom professionals capable of strengthening agritech growth, supporting rural industries and advancing self-reliance in local communities. It will also ensure that research outcomes are translated into practical solutions that improve productivity for farmers and entrepreneurs.
Governor Alia’s recent engagement on the global stage, where he accompanied President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the 2025 BRICS Summit in Brazil, has attracted fresh international attention to Benue’s agricultural opportunities.
The discussions held during the trip have opened pathways for investors interested in agriculture, solid minerals, renewable energy and healthcare, with UAST already positioned to key into those opportunities.
Located in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area, the university marks a strategic push to expand development into rural communities.
However, the host area, known for its agrarian strength, is expected to witness increased commercial activities as students, academic personnel, construction work and private business investments stimulate local growth.
UAST aligns strongly with the Federal Government’s push toward strengthening food security, promoting agricultural innovation and decentralizing tertiary education.
By providing research-driven training for scientists, engineers, agronomists and technologists, the university will help curb rural-urban migration and enhance national productivity. It is also prepared to collaborate with international development organizations to implement community-focused agricultural projects.
Officials say the decision to site UAST in Ihugh reflects the Governor’s commitment to balanced development and rural inclusion. The initiative sends a clear message that no community is too small to benefit from transformative investments. With its foundation laid, the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Ihugh, is emerging as a powerful symbol of Benue’s renewed ambition for progress and prosperity.
