Who Is Professor Chris Piwuna? ASUU’s New President

Professor Chris Piwuna, a consultant psychiatrist and former Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Jos, has been elected as the 14th National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

Piwuna, who hails from Plateau State, defeated Professor Adamu Babayo of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, to succeed Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, who had been steering the affairs of the association since 2021.

His election was confirmed during ASUU’s 23rd National Delegates Congress held on May 11, 2025, in Benin City, Edo State.

Piwuna brings to the role a wealth of experience, having previously served as ASUU’s National Vice President. His academic and administrative background positions him to navigate the complex challenges facing Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.

According to union insiders, the election was conducted smoothly and transparently. A source familiar with the process stated, “It was a keen contest, but the majority of delegates voted in favour of Prof Piwuna due to his track record and capacity to lead during turbulent times.”

His appointment comes at a time when the union is facing renewed agitation over the sharing formula of the recently released Earned Academic Allowances (EAA).

There are also increasing concerns about poor working conditions, funding gaps in universities, and the ongoing brain drain of academic professionals.

What His Appointment Will Mean for the Union

Prof. Piwuna is expected to steer the union’s affairs through a delicate period marked by negotiations with the government and stakeholder engagement. His leadership will be critical in determining whether ASUU proceeds with industrial action or explores alternative dispute resolution strategies.

Though he has yet to issue a formal address, his allies suggest he is committed to continuing ASUU’s push for better welfare, improved funding, and respect for agreements signed with the government.

The Significance of His Appointment in the Nigerian Educational Sector

Professor Piwuna’s emergence as ASUU President symbolizes a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s higher education landscape. With his blend of academic excellence and union leadership experience, his tenure is anticipated to re-energize conversations around university autonomy, staff welfare, and policy reforms.

At a time when the sector is struggling with declining global rankings, infrastructural decay, and mass exodus of professionals, his leadership could drive constructive engagement and strategic partnerships that promote long-term sustainability for public universities across the country.