Makurdi, Sept. 11, 2025 — The Benue State House of Assembly has amended the law renaming Benue State University, Makurdi, settling on a shorter name: Father Adasu University, Makurdi.

The adjustment, made during plenary on Thursday after debate on the report of the House Standing Committee on Higher Education, replaces the longer version Rev. Fr Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi adopted in December 2024.

Leading the debate, Majority Leader Saater Tiseer (APC/Mbagwa) argued that the original renaming was “too long” and impractical for everyday use.

The Speaker, Alfred Emberga, directed the Clerk of the House, Dr. Bem Mela, to read the bill for the third time, after which it was passed.

The House also approved amendments granting the Colleges of Education in Katsina-Ala and Oju the status of degree-awarding institutions.

Benue State University was originally renamed in December 2024, after Governor Hyacinth Alia announced the change during a convocation ceremony. Alia, who serves as the university’s visitor, had said the decision was meant to honour the late Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu, the second civilian governor of Benue State and founder of the institution.

The latest amendment ensures the institution retains Adasu’s legacy while adopting a more concise identity.