- As new chairman vows to foster cohesion, inclusivity, impact-driven leadership.
The newly elected Chairman of the University of Maiduguri Alumni Association, Kogi State Chapter, Mr. Stephen Ojonugwa, has pledged to lead a new era characterised by cohesion, inclusivity and transparency.
Speaking on Sunday, December 29, 2024, shortly after his swearing-in alongside other members of the Executive Council, Mr Ojonugwa also emphasised the Council’s commitment to achieving the long-cherished aspirations of the Association.
He also pledged an impact- driven organisation with focus on existing members, new graduates, current students and community development initiatives.
He promised to prioritise mentorship programmes aimed at fostering a robust and broad-based alumni network that serves the collective interest of all members.
Mr. Ojonugwa further stated Council’s intention to actively engage alumni from the Central and Western Senatorial Districts of the State, emphasising the importance of inclusivity in strengthening the Association.
Expressing gratitude to members for the confidence placed in the new EXCO through the transparent election conducted on December 14, 2024, he called for unwavering support by all in order to achieve the Association’s goals.
In his address, the oath administrator, Barr. Moses Ebute (SAN), urged members of the Executive Council to view their roles as selfless service.
He also emphasised the importance of strict adherence to the Association’s Byelaws in fulfilling their responsibilities.
In her farewell address, Hajia Habibat Onakpa Abdallah, the outgoing Chairperson of the Caretaker Committee (CTC), expressed gratitude to members for entrusting her team with the task of steering the Association during its transitional phase.
She praised the dedication of her team, particularly the Secretary, Barr. Joshua Ilemona Akor, for their tireless efforts in successfully delivering on the CTC’s mandate.
Hajia Abdallah highlighted the achievements of the CTC, including conducting the Association’s first-ever democratic election and opening an official bank account in the Association’s name, a milestone aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability.
She thanked members for their financial and moral support, which contributed to the CTC’s accomplishments.
The new Executive Council members sworn in include:
• Stephen Ojonugwa – Chairman
• Shaka Samuel Sule – Vice-Chairman
• Abdulkerim Ejiga – Secretary General
• Bello A. Mohammed – Assistant Secretary General
• Titus E. Idachaba – Director of Socials
• Tairu N. Momoh – Publicity Secretary
• Ojochide Yusuf – Treasurer
• Abimaje Enejoh Manasseh – Financial Secretary
• Basir Yusuf – Auditor
Dr. Innocent P. Alfa, Habibat Onakpa Abdallah and Mustapha Aloji were sworn in as Ex-Officio members.
The ceremony was attended by notable alumni, including Dr. Mohammed Onakpa of the Department of Mass Communication, Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, and Mr. Onalo Atokolo, a former Treasurer of the Association and a lecturer at the Nigerian Defense Academy, Kaduna.
