The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has elected Prof. Chris Piwuna, a consultant psychiatrist at the University of Jos Teaching Hospital and Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Jos, as its new president.
Prof. Piwuna succeeds Prof. Victor Osodeke, a soil science expert from Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State. The decision was made during the union’s 23rd National Delegates Congress held in Benin on Sunday.
The closely contested election saw Piwuna emerge victorious over Prof. Adamu Babayo of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, according to sources familiar with the outcome.
Piwuna takes over leadership of ASUU at a turbulent time, with tensions building over several unresolved issues in the education sector. Chief among them are controversies surrounding the sharing formula of the recently released Earned Academic Allowances by the Federal Government, persistent complaints over underfunding of universities, and increasing brain drain due to poor remuneration and working conditions for academics.
As stakeholders watch closely, Piwuna’s presidency is expected to shape the union’s next line of action, with talks of possible industrial action already gaining momentum in academic circles.
What you should know
Prof. Chris Piwuna, the newly elected ASUU president, assumes office at a critical moment as Nigerian universities face growing unrest over allowance disputes and worsening staff attrition. His leadership will likely be tested early amid fears of another nationwide strike.
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