Reverend Father Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi-previously recognized as Benue State University, Makurdi-has elevated 146 senior lecturers and associate professors to full professorship, concluding a promotion delay that spanned four years since 2021.
Meanwhile, Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Terver Ubwa has called on the university’s non-academic staff, currently engaged in a strike, to reconsider and end their industrial action.
Speaking during a meeting with members of the press in Benue State at his office, Prof. Ubwa revealed that these long-awaited promotions were finalized soon after he assumed office on June 1, 2025.
He highlighted the significance of this move in boosting morale and restoring respect among the academic workforce. “Upon my appointment, 146 lecturers had been awaiting promotion for four years, with some nearly losing hope. Prioritizing their advancement, I ensured many received their deserved elevation, including instances of double promotions,” he stated.
Prof. Ubwa also recounted his efforts to resolve pressing campus issues during his brief tenure. “One of the major challenges was the water shortage affecting both staff and students, which we have successfully addressed,” he noted.
He further mentioned, “We repaired nine generators across the university to guarantee consistent electricity. Additionally, the university clinic now benefits from a dedicated generator, eliminating the previous reliance on phone flashlights by medical personnel during power outages.”
Despite these improvements, the university continues to grapple with a strike by non-academic staff, primarily over the non-implementation of the national minimum wage and other unresolved concerns.
“While some of their demands have been met, several remain outstanding. The government requested additional time to address these issues, but the union proceeded with the strike. I urge the staff to reconsider, as the administration remains committed to enhancing workers’ welfare,” Prof. Ubwa appealed.
In a bid to alleviate student housing challenges, the university has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a private developer to construct a hostel accommodating 1,600 students. Furthermore, the institution plans to utilize Tetfund resources to build additional hostels, aiming to significantly reduce accommodation shortages.
Prof. Ubwa underscored the university’s dedication to upholding academic integrity, cautioning students that any graduate found making unfounded allegations against colleagues or faculty members risks having their certificates revoked. He assured that the admission process will be closely monitored under his supervision to prevent any malpractice.
It is noteworthy that the institution, formerly known as Benue State University, was renamed Reverend Father Moses Orshio Adasu University in December 2024, commemorating the late Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu, a former governor and the university’s founder.
