Alia Sacks UAST Vice Chancellor, Appoints Shilgba as Acting Replacement

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has approved the removal of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Agriculture Science and Technology (UAST), Ihugh, Dr. Qrisstuberg Msughter Amua, and appointed Professor Leonard Karshima Shilgba as the institution’s Acting Vice Chancellor.

The development was announced on Thursday in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula.

According to the statement, Dr. Amua was relieved of his duties for administrative reasons, while Shilgba’s appointment takes immediate effect.

Professor Shilgba, a renowned mathematician and university administrator, hails from Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State and has built an academic career spanning more than three decades.

His academic achievements include advanced postdoctoral research in Japan after receiving a Japan Student Services Organization Fellowship in 2009.

The statement noted that he has participated in strategic planning and institutional development during key periods in Nigeria’s higher education sector and also contributed to the establishment of the University of Agriculture Science and Technology, Ihugh.

Beyond academia, Shilgba has held important public appointments.

In 2017, former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him Chairman of the ninth Governing Board of the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), where he served throughout his tenure.

Governor Alia, who is the Visitor to the university, congratulated the new acting vice chancellor and urged him to provide purposeful leadership for the institution.

“This is a position of great responsibility, and we trust you will lead with wisdom, integrity, and fairness,” the governor said.

He tasked Professor Shilgba with strengthening academic standards, promoting unity within the university community and ensuring effective administration.

“As you assume this office, I urge you to provide steady leadership, strengthen academic excellence, and promote unity among staff and students,” Alia added.

The governor also encouraged the acting vice chancellor to prioritise the welfare of members of staff and students while protecting the institution’s reputation.

He expressed confidence that the new university head would work diligently to advance the institution’s development and uphold its core values.

The appointment marks a new phase in the administration of the university as the Benue State Government seeks to reposition the institution for improved academic performance, stronger governance and sustainable growth.