The Acting Vice Chancellor of Plateau State University (PLASU), Prof. Shadrach Best, led a delegation to the Plateau State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs on Thursday, January 9, 2025, to strengthen collaboration and secure greater support for the institution.

The delegation engaged in a high-level meeting with the Commissioner, Chief Ephraim Usman, and representatives of local governments to discuss pressing challenges facing the university and explore opportunities for enhanced collaboration.

During the meeting, Prof. Best acknowledged the crucial role of local governments as co-owners of PLASU and commended the commission for maintaining its funding contributions despite financial constraints.

He highlighted key issues affecting the university, including insufficient water supply, lack of adequate staff housing, transportation challenges, and growing security threats, especially for off-campus students vulnerable to criminal activities. Prof. Best appealed for increased support in staff training, logistics, and transportation while expressing gratitude for the commission’s ongoing commitment.

In his response, the Hon Commissioner Ministry of Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs, Chief Ephraim Usman lauded the visit and recognized the pivotal role of PLASU in Plateau State’s educational advancement. He acknowledged the financial difficulties faced by local governments but assured the university of the commission’s dedication to addressing its challenges. Chief Usman pledged to boost support through increased remittances and collaborations with philanthropists and external stakeholders to enhance infrastructure and security. He also praised the state government for granting autonomy to the commission, enabling it to undertake proactive measures.

Hon. Nicholas Nshe, Chairman of Shendam Local Government Council and representative of the 17 local government chairmen reaffirmed the collective commitment of local governments to supporting PLASU. He emphasized the importance of education in driving societal development and pledged action on critical requests such as improved water supply and enhanced security. Highlighting past contributions like the drilling of boreholes, Hon. Nshe assured that local governments would work together to provide sustainable solutions.

The meeting underscored a shared determination among PLASU, the commission, and local governments to address the university’s challenges and foster a secure and thriving academic environment. Promises of increased collaboration and tangible interventions offer hope for resolving PLASU’s pressing needs and enhancing its role in Plateau State’s development.

Prof. Best, Chief Usman, and Hon. Nshe reiterated their commitment to the progress of PLASU and pledged to strengthen partnerships that would bolster the university’s contribution to the state’s educational and socio-economic growth.