Prof. Chris Piwuna has been elected as the new national president of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
Piwuna is a consultant psychiatrist at the University of Jos Teaching Hospital. He also serves as the Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Jos.
He takes over from Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, a soil science expert at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State.
His election was confirmed during ASUU’s 23rd National Delegates Congress held in Benin City, Edo State, on Sunday.
Piwuna defeated Prof. Adamu Babayo of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi.
The new ASUU president will serve a four-year term, leading Nigeria’s strongest academic union amid serious challenges.
Challenges Awaiting ASUU’s New Leadership
Piwuna assumes office at a tense moment in Nigeria’s public university system.
ASUU members are unhappy with the recent sharing formula of the Earned Academic Allowances (EAA). The Federal Government released the funds, but many lecturers claim the method used to divide the money was unfair.
There are growing fears of another strike if these issues remain unresolved.
ASUU has long accused the Nigerian government of neglecting public universities. Key problems include poor funding, outdated infrastructure, and the controversial Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
The brain drain problem also continues. Many top Nigerian academics now leave for jobs abroad due to poor pay and working conditions.
In 2022, ASUU held an eight-month strike, one of the longest in its history. The union demanded better salaries, improved facilities, and autonomy for universities.
Piwuna was the national vice president under Osodeke’s leadership. He played key roles in negotiations with the federal government.
ASUU insiders say he is known for his calm approach and strong belief in academic freedom.
Lecturers Expect a New Approach
Many ASUU members want Piwuna to bring fresh ideas and avoid another long strike.
A senior ASUU member in Lagos told reporters, “We need someone who can negotiate with firmness, not just go on strike every time.”
Another lecturer in Kano said, “We are tired of failed promises from the government. The new president must stand strong for us.”
While the government praised ASUU’s choice, they urged the union to support “constructive engagement.”
Prof. Osodeke, in his handover note, said, “ASUU has never been about politics. It has always been about protecting education in Nigeria.”
“I am confident that Prof. Piwuna will lead with wisdom and courage,” he added.
The new ASUU executive team is expected to announce their policy direction in the coming weeks.
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