Benue State University, Makurdi

Benue State University celebrated a significant milestone on Friday, March 28, 2025, as His Excellency, Revd. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Governor of Benue State and Visitor to the University, officially commissioned a state-of-the-art 60KVA Solar Inverter System. This innovative facility, generously donated by Distinguished Senator Dr. Gabriel Torwua Suswam, CON, and Chief Dr. Paul Edeh, Esq., is a strategic initiative aimed at addressing the university’s ongoing power supply challenges, particularly within the Administrative Building.

In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Tor Joe Iorapuu, expressed profound gratitude to the donors, noting that their generous contribution fulfilled a promise made during BSU’s 22nd to 24th Combined Convocation Ceremonies in 2024 during which, both Senator Suswam and Chief Edeh were conferred with Honorary Doctorate Degrees (honoris causa) in recognition of their outstanding contributions to society. They pledged to provide a solar power alternative for the Administrative Building, indicating their commitment to the advancement of the institution and honourable redeemed same.

Professor Iorapuu extended a warm welcome to Governor Alia, the Deputy Governor, commissioners, and other dignitaries present, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in promoting higher education growth in Benue State. He praised the philanthropic contributions of the benefactors and acknowledged its positive impact on the university’s operations.

During his speech, Distinguished Senator Gabriel Suswam expressed his appreciation to Governor Alia for the honor conferred upon him and Chief Edeh. He emphasized the critical importance of prioritizing education as a vehicle for sustainable development. Senator Suswam commended the Governor’s steadfast dedication to transforming education in Benue State and encouraged all Benue indigenes—both at home and in the diaspora—to actively support the growth and expansion of Benue State University.

In response, Governor Alia commended the selfless contributions of Senator Suswam and Chief Edeh, describing their initiative as a commendable act of service to the institution. He assured the university of his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development, reaffirming that education remains a top priority under his leadership. The Governor further pledged continued support to create a conducive environment for teaching, learning, and research at Benue State University.

The commissioning of the 60KVA Solar Inverter System represents a substantial step toward resolving power supply challenges at the Administrative Building, ensuring a more reliable and sustainable energy source for its operations.

It is noteworthy that Senator Suswam had previously donated 100 solar-powered streetlights to illuminate the campus, further demonstrating his commitment to the university’s development. Additionally, Chief Edeh has contributed yearly Law Reports to the Faculty of Law for the past two years.