Meet Chris Piwuna: The Newly Elected President of ASUU – What You Need to Know

 

In a major development that will shape the future of Nigeria’s university system, Professor Chris Piwuna, a respected academic, medical doctor, and consultant psychiatrist, has been elected as the new president of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). This important announcement was confirmed on Monday by his predecessor, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, who previously held the role.

Chris Piwuna is not a new name within ASUU. In fact, before emerging as president, he served as the national vice president of the union. His deep involvement in the union’s affairs and long-standing experience in both academics and leadership no doubt contributed to his victory in the tightly contested election.

The election process wasn’t a quick one. It took place over four full days, from May 8 to May 12, during ASUU’s 23rd National Delegates Congress, which was held at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) in Edo State. After a thorough voting process, Piwuna came out on top, defeating Professor Adamu Babayo, a well-regarded academic from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) in Bauchi State.

Although ASUU has not yet released an official press statement regarding the election results, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke confirmed the outcome and added that “a formal announcement is expected soon.”

With this election, Professor Piwuna becomes the 14th president in the history of ASUU. This is a significant milestone not only for him personally but also for the union, especially at a time when Nigeria’s higher education system faces many challenges, including funding, staff welfare, and frequent strike actions.

So, who is Professor Chris Piwuna, and why is his election generating interest?

Professor Piwuna is a consultant psychiatrist with years of experience in mental health, teaching, and public service. He works at the University of Jos Teaching Hospital and is a former head of the psychiatry unit at the same institution. Over the years, he has combined medical practice with academic work, giving him a unique perspective on university administration and policy development.

He has also served as the Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Jos, where he earned his first medical degree (MBBS) back in the year 2000. Wanting to further his education and broaden his global knowledge, Piwuna went on to obtain a Master’s degree from the University of Malta in 2013.

In recognition of his professional excellence, he was awarded a Fellowship of the West African College of Physicians—a prestigious qualification in the field of medicine. He is also a member of the International Psychogeriatric Association, showing his active engagement in mental health issues affecting older adults.

Academically, Professor Piwuna is well-respected. He has published several scholarly articles, especially focusing on mental health and quality of life in older adults—a subject that’s becoming more relevant as Nigeria’s population ages. His research has appeared in peer-reviewed international journals, highlighting his contributions to global scientific knowledge.

Now, with his new role as president of ASUU, Professor Piwuna will be expected to lead the union in negotiations with the government, advocate for better working conditions for lecturers, and push for reforms in Nigeria’s university system. Given his medical background, administrative experience, and previous involvement with ASUU, many observers believe he has the right tools to take on the job.

ASUU plays a major role in Nigeria’s educational system. The union is known for its strong stance on academic freedom, funding for universities, staff welfare, and government accountability. Its actions often affect not just the academic staff, but also millions of students across the country. This makes the position of ASUU president one of the most influential roles in Nigeria’s education sector.

With the announcement of Professor Chris Piwuna as the new ASUU president, all eyes will now be on his leadership. Will he be able to bring about the much-needed reforms? Can he help reduce the frequency of strikes and improve the learning environment for students?

Time will tell, but for now, ASUU has a new captain steering the ship—and his name is Professor Chris Piwuna.