By Abiola Olawale
Professor Chris Piwuna, a consultant psychiatrist and Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Jos, has emerged as the new president of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
Piwuna’s emergence was confirmed during ASUU’s 23rd National Delegates Congress held on Sunday in Benin City, Edo State.
Succeeding Professor Victor Osodeke, Piwuna steps into a critical role amid looming strike threats and ongoing negotiations with the Nigerian government.
Here are five unknown facts about Piwuna;
1. Piwuna was born in Jos, North-Central Nigeria. Attended the University of Jos, Nigeria, and the University of Malta and has a fellowship from the West African College of Physicians. Member of the International Psychogeriatric Association.
2. Prof Piwuna is not only an academic but also a known consultant psychiatrist at the University of Jos Teaching Hospital (JUTH).
3. Before becoming ASUU president, Piwuna served as ASUU’s Vice President, a role he held during Professor Osodeke’s tenure.
4. He was also the Internal Auditor of ASUU and the former chairman of the University of Jos chapter. His extensive experience within the union, including defending ASUU’s actions in court in 2022, demonstrates his deep commitment to the union’s mission of advocating for better welfare and university funding.
5. His election followed a competitive race against Professor Adamu Babayo of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University.