Lalong appoints education commissioner as PLASU VC

Simon Lalong, governor of Plateau, has approved the appointment of Benard Matur as the new vice-chancellor of the Plateau State University (PLASU).

Makut Macham, the governor’s spokesperson, broke the news in a statement on Monday.

Until his appointment, the new VC was the commissioner for higher education in the state.

Lalong said Matur’s appointment followed the recommendation of the governing council of the university.

The former commissioner is expected to take over from Yohanna Izam, the outgoing vice-chancellor, on February 21 (today) — which marks the end of the latter’s tenure.

“Governor Lalong while congratulating the new Vice Chancellor, used the opportunity to appreciate the outgoing Vice Chancellor Prof. Yohanna Izam for his meritorious service and pragmatic leadership which has lifted the standard of the university, making it one of the most sought after in the country and one of the best among its peers. He wishes him success in his future endeavors,” the statement reads.

Matur is a professor of public health entomology and parasitology and has held several positions in academia.

He was the former deputy vice-chancellor of Veritas University in Abuja. He also served as the dean of the college of sciences; dean of student affairs; and head of the department of biological sciences at the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA).

Matur also previously served as the head of the department of Remedial Studies at the University of Jos (UNIJOS).