The Governing Council, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi ( JoSTUM), has appointed Prof. Isaac Itodo as the 7th Vice Chancellor with effect from April 17, 2023.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Hon. Edith Uwajumogwu, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja.

Uwajumogwu said the new VC, a world-class agricultural engineer, is the first alumnus of the University to be appointed as VC since the University was established in 1988

She noted that Itodo emerged as the winner among 16 candidates through a credible and open process.

She stated that 18 applications were received in response to the advertisement, which were screened, and a short list of 16 candidates emerged.

“The choice of Prof. Itodo was unanimous after he emerged with the highest score from the three candidates that the selection committee recommended.

“in the process, JoSTUM’s interest was put first. Nobody was under any pressure that was not controllable. I hope other Universities will learn from the University.

” We went for merit and took the best for the University to take its pride of place in the Nigerian University system,” he said.

Prof. Isaac Itodo, born 58 years ago, joined the services of the University in 1987, rose through the ranks and was elevated to the rank of Professor in 2003.

He has served the University in various capacities, including Head of the Department of Agricultural Engineering, Dean of the College of Engineering and Director of Linkages.

He is a scholar-practitioner who holds two patents, a National Productivity Award Winner, and a Fellow of the Academy of Engineering, amongst his numerous academic titles.

He will take over the reins of office in April 2023 from Prof. Paul Annune who has been acting as Vice-Chancellor since November 2022.

He succeeds Prof. Richard Kimbir, whose tenure as VC ended on Nov. 18, 2022.