A lecturer at the Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Dr Atabo Aruwa Julius, has emerged as the National President of the institution’s Alumni Association.
Dr Julius emerged victorious at the association’s National Delegates Congress held in Lokoja, Kogi State, on Friday, after defeating his challenger, Mr Idajili Alih Monday.
Declaring the result, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Comrade Benjamin Jeremiah, said Julius polled 81 votes to defeat Idajili who scored 18 votes.
Jeremiah said 100 delegates voted, while one vote was declared invalid.
He disclosed that the position of National President was the only contested office, as all other positions were filled unopposed.
Other members of the new executive are Hon. Monday Ejiga as Deputy President; Sylvanus Ufaruna, Vice President (East); Puke Simpa Isaac, Vice President (Central); and Hon. Obalaja Lanre, Vice President (West).
Others are Ogu Ukwubile Acho, Secretary General; Peter Onucheyo, Assistant Secretary; Ajih Sam, Treasurer; Sunday Eneojo Obaje, Financial Secretary; Dr Samuel Atuluku, Public Relations Officer; and Odiba Friday Akoji, Social/Welfare Officer.
Also elected are Isah O. Aliu, Esq., Legal Adviser; Dr Sunday Simon, Internal Auditor; Faruna Grace, Women Leader; and Hon. Thompson Alfa, Comrade Okeme Y. Okeme and Mallam Ibraheems as Ex-Officio members.
In his acceptance speech, Julius described his victory as a call to service, pledging to promote unity, welfare and development of the association and his alma mater.
He thanked the electoral committee and alumni across Nigeria and in the diaspora for their support.
Julius also acknowledged the contributions of past and present leaders to the development of Kogi State and the university.
He commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governors Yahaya Bello and Idris Wada, former Governor Ibrahim Idris, and the late founder of the university, Prince Abubakar Audu.
He lauded the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Usman Salisu Ogbo, for his purposeful and digitally-driven leadership.
Julius said his administration would prioritise unity and reconciliation, strengthening of chapters and ensuring that every alumnus feels valued.
He listed other priorities to include alumni welfare, collaboration among national, state and diaspora chapters, development of the alma mater, youth mentorship and career development.
He also promised transparency, accountability and strategic partnerships with government, private organisations and development partners for sustainable projects.
He urged members to put the election behind them and work together for the progress of the association and the university.
The high point of the congress was a vote of confidence passed on Governor Ododo and the Vice-Chancellor.
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