Record Breaking Female Students Elected As SUG Presidents In Top Nigerian Universities

In a historic milestone, female students have emerged as Student Union Government (SUG) presidents in top universities in Nigeria, breaking a long-standing record of male dominance in campus politics.

Osun Defender reports that from March – June 2024, three female students have broken long-standing record of male dominance in campus politics to emerge as the SUG Presidents.

Taraba State University

On 30th of March, 2024, Comrade Rose Agada was elected as the first ever female SUG President of the Taraba State University.

In her acceptance speech, Agada said, ““I am deeply grateful and humbled to have been elected as the first female Student Union Government (SUG) President at Taraba State University. I want to express my appreciation to the students who participated in the election process, my campaign team, the previous Student Union government, the faculty and staff of our university, and most importantly, the students and my well wishes who have entrusted me with this historic role.”

“Together, we will work towards promoting inclusivity, diversity, and a sense of belonging while addressing challenges and fostering a stronger, more vibrant university community” she said.

“As the first female SUG President, I am committed to breaking barriers and inspiring others. I believe that representation matters, and I am proud to be a voice for all students, regardless of gender. I will strive to create an environment where everyone feels empowered and valued, and where their voices are heard and respected. Together, we will challenge stereotypes, promote gender equality, and create opportunities for all students to thrive academically, socially, and personally.” she emphasize.

University Of Calabar

On June 14, 2024, after 49 years since its establishment, the students of UNICAL elected Blessing Alims as the first ever female SUG President of the university.

Blessing Alims is currently studying Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution at the Department of Political Science. She is a serial volunteer with different NGOs such as AIDS Healthcare Foundation and Youth Advocates, The Bridge Leadership Foundation founded by Liyel Imoke former governor of Cross River State, UNFPA Nigeria, Girl’s Power Initiative, and many other charity initiatives.

She hails from Gakem, in Bekwarra LGA, Cross River State. In 2022, she was one of the winners across Africa to participate in the Youngers Foundation Female and More Social Impact Project.

READ: FUOYE Gets First Female SUG President

During the campus debate program prior to the election, she emerged number one with 87 points to defeat four other male aspirants.

Blessing is the first-ever female SUG President under the first-ever female Vice Chancellor of the school.

Federal University, Oye-Ekiti

On June 21, 2024, FUOYE students elected Miss Abiodun Olorunshola Mary as the first female SUG president to pilot the affairs of the students for the 2024/2025 academic session.

This was coming barely 13 years after its establishment by former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

The election which was conducted using electronic voting on the University portal started at 12:30 p.m. and ended at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, June 21, 2024.

However, it was gathered that the election was free, fair and credible, while applauding the management team of the university for the great feat.

The new President-elect, Comrade Abiodun Olorunshola Mary polled 5, 046 to defeat Williams Kayode Samuel, who polled 4, 450 in the keenly contested election.

Comrades Olaniyi Israel emerged as Vice-President while Yusuuf Lateef as the SUG General Secretary.

Other winners were Dada Daniel (Assist General Secretary), Aina Temidayo (Treasurer), Lawal Jonathan (Financial Secretary), Owolabi Elizabeth ( Welfare Secretary), Adegboye Emmanuel (Sports Director), Olutoye Daniel (Public Relations Officer), Amaechi Nzubechukwu (Transport Secretary) and Ifabumiyi Joshua ( Social Director).

Speaking shortly after announcing the result, Chairman Independent FUOYESU Electoral Committee (IFEC), who doubles as the Dean of Students, Professor Wasiu Ademola Oyedokun-Alli said the election as conducted by the electoral committee was without hitch as it’s free and fair election.

Professor Oyedokun-Alli said “the positions were duly contested and the committee was fair to all the contestants.”

He, however, lauded the management’s support under the leadership of Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina, for making resources available for the smooth conduct of the election.