By Abel Johngold Orheruata
The University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA) has elected new executives to steer the affairs of the association for the next two years.
The election took place during a Congress held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at the Dame Edith Okowa Auditorium, Dr. Michael Omolayole Alumni Complex, University of Ibadan. The event was attended by members from across the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In his welcome address, the reelected Worldwide President, Professor Saawua Gabriel Nyityo, reflected on his administration’s challenges since being mandated by Congress on November 26, 2022. He recounted the crises faced in 2022 and highlighted the various unsuccessful efforts to foster unity within the association. Nyityo expressed gratitude to members for their trust and support in maintaining the association’s stability.
The UIAA 2024 Election Congress witnessed a keenly contested race for various positions. In a landmark victory, Dr. Irene Akhideno of the Ekpoma Chapter, a renowned medical practitioner and university lecturer, secured the position of 1st Vice President with 78 votes, defeating her closest rival, Fidelis Chukwuyem Mbadugha, SAN, of the Enugu State Branch, who garnered 28 votes.
Other notable election results included:
2nd Vice President: Morris Eleri, Esq. of the Abia State Branch defeated incumbent Joseph Akaanan, RAS, of the Gboko Chapter with 73 votes to 30.
1st Assistant Secretary: Dr. Daniel Oghoghovbe of the Isoko Chapter triumphed over Chief Uchemadu Abosi of the Abia State Branch, winning 73 votes to 30.
Worldwide Treasurer: Chief (Dr.) Oyinade Olujimi Tomori, JP, of the Ogun State Branch, popularly known as the Giwa Iyalode of Owu Kingdom, was reelected with 105 votes.
Several incumbents retained their positions:
Worldwide Secretary: Prof. Sarah Akintola of the UI Chapter.
National Financial Secretary: Dr. Ruth Epochi-Olise, reelected with 102 votes.
Publicity Secretary: Publicist Enitan Abel Johngold, ANIPR, of the Asaba Chapter, retained his role with 94 votes.
Legal Adviser: Ben Chuks Udoh, Esq. of the Onitsha Chapter, reelected with 92 votes.
Socio Secretary: Prof. Helen Adebola of the Anambra State Branch was also reelected.
Newly elected officials included:
2nd Assistant Secretary: Mr. Wale Alao of the Enugu State Branch.
Ex Officio 1: Ace broadcaster Comrade Christian Obileri of the Anambra State Branch.
Ex Officio 2: Ven. Kayode Ajibare of the Ogun State Branch, who secured 82 votes.
Ex Officio 3: Patrick Oyameda of the Edo State Branch, elected with 74 votes.
The Congress concluded with expressions of optimism for the association’s future and a commitment to fostering unity and progress.
