By Ann Agbo
Benue State Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism is partnering the Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi in the management of the zoological garden, situated in the university.
Speaking, during a recent courtesy call by the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mrs Ngunan Addingi on the Vice Chancellor, Benue State University (BSU), Prof. Tor Iorapuu, she said, apart from the peaceful collaboration being sought, the ministry was willing to partner with the University, in orientation and behavioural change among the students as well.
In his remark, VC BSU, Tor Iorapuu, while addressing the meeting said, misunderstanding between the ministry and university contrib
uted to the rift between the ministry and university over the zoological garden.
The VC who assured of clear relationship, devoid of acrimony between the two institutions, noted that, with the synergy built, it would be beneficial to the state as both BSU and the ministry were serving the interest of the state.
Earlier, Director of Tourism in the ministry, Mrs Dorathy Ajoko disclosed that a committee was set-up by the state government in 2012 to relocate the zoo, though, till date, a site is yet to be given.
She expressed concern that in the interim, the university management took over the zoo area without consulting the ministry.
Mrs Ajoko, in her submission, proposed cordial working relationship between the two institutions, pending when the zoo would be relocated to its new site, thereby avoid any further rift.