By John Umeh
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has ushered in a new phase of leadership with the election of Professor Chris Piwuna, a consultant psychiatrist and Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Jos. His emergence as the new president was ratified at the union’s 23rd National Delegates Congress, which convened on Sunday in Benin City, Edo State. He takes over from Professor Victor Osodeke, a renowned Soil Science expert from the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State.
Professor Piwuna’s election signals a potential shift in tone and approach as ASUU continues to confront numerous challenges facing Nigeria’s university system. The contest, which also featured Professor Adamu Babayo of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, was reportedly keenly contested, highlighting the seriousness with which the academic community views the leadership of the union. The congress, attended by representatives from university chapters across the country, ultimately backed Piwuna’s candidacy, suggesting broad confidence in his capacity to navigate the turbulent waters of Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
Coming into office at a critical moment, Piwuna inherits a complex web of unresolved issues. Chief among these are disputes over the sharing formula of the Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) recently released by the Federal Government, persistent concerns about funding and autonomy, and the alarming rate of academic brain drain to foreign institutions. Many analysts believe these lingering challenges could soon culminate in renewed industrial action—a familiar route for ASUU, which has historically used strikes as a tool of last resort in its negotiations with the government.
For many in the academic community, the emergence of Piwuna is both a continuation and a departure. While he is expected to uphold ASUU’s strong tradition of advocacy, his background as a medical academic and his experience in student affairs may bring a new perspective to leadership. As Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Jos, he has worked closely with student bodies, positioning him to potentially foster better communication between the union and students—a relationship often strained during periods of strike.
In his inaugural address, Piwuna acknowledged the weight of expectations that come with the office. He reiterated ASUU’s commitment to quality education, academic freedom, and improved welfare for university staff. “The Nigerian university system is in distress,” he remarked, “and it is our responsibility as academics to rescue it from systemic neglect and poor policy implementation.” His tone, though firm, hinted at a desire for constructive engagement rather than prolonged confrontation, sparking cautious optimism among education stakeholders.
The circumstances surrounding his election highlight the urgent need for focused leadership. ASUU has been grappling with internal and external tensions—ranging from the federal government’s lack of consistency in honoring past agreements, to intra-union disagreements about strike strategies and communication. Most recently, controversies have emerged regarding the disbursement of Earned Academic Allowances. Many university staff have voiced concerns over alleged inequities in the distribution process, raising questions about transparency and fairness. Piwuna must now work to restore trust among union members and manage expectations in a difficult economic climate.
In addition to financial matters, the union remains troubled by the persistent brain drain affecting Nigeria’s academic institutions. Highly qualified lecturers are leaving the country in droves due to poor working conditions, insecurity, and better opportunities abroad. This ongoing exodus threatens the sustainability of the nation’s tertiary education system. Piwuna has pledged to prioritize staff retention by pushing for improved remuneration, better infrastructure, and institutional reforms aimed at raising morale and ensuring global competitiveness.
Observers of Nigeria’s education sector are already weighing the implications of Piwuna’s leadership. Some believe his relatively calm demeanor and student-focused background may enable more productive dialogue with government authorities, while others warn that unless systemic problems are addressed, ASUU may find itself in familiar territory: locked in yet another protracted struggle with policymakers.
Nonetheless, Professor Piwuna’s election offers a chance for ASUU to rebrand its methods and message. As many Nigerians grow weary of incessant strikes and disrupted academic calendars, there is growing demand for a balanced approach—one that combines assertive advocacy with creative problem-solving. By focusing on transparency, unity within the union, and strategic engagement with stakeholders, Piwuna could reposition ASUU as a more effective force for change.
In conclusion, the election of Professor Chris Piwuna marks a new chapter in the history of the Academic Staff Union of Universities. His leadership will be critical in determining whether ASUU can adapt to the changing political and educational climate, while still holding firm to its mandate of protecting academic integrity and promoting quality education. The coming months will be telling, as the new president begins the delicate task of leading the union through what may prove to be one of its most consequential periods yet.
