Nigeria’s Osisiogu Retains Top African Student Post

Nigerian student leader Osisiogu Osikenyi has secured a fresh mandate as the President of the All-Africa Students Union (AASU), reaffirming Nigeria’s prominent position in continental student politics. His re-election followed the successful completion of the initial phase of voting for the Union’s 14th Elective Congress, which took place in Accra, Ghana, on Saturday, November 22, 2025.

The official confirmation of the results was delivered by Angel Mbuthia, the Chairperson of the AASU Electoral Commission. Mbuthia attested that the elections were conducted rigorously, adhering strictly to the AASU Constitution and the established Electoral Guidelines for the congress.

Only those candidates who received official nominations from member organizations in good financial standing were cleared by the Commission to participate in the electoral contest.

Moments after his victory was made public on Sunday, Osisiogu expressed his profound appreciation to the AASU community for their renewed confidence in his leadership.

He extended specific gratitude to Nigeria’s national students’ body, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), for their crucial role in his nomination and support.

“I am deeply honoured by the confidence the AASU community has placed in me,” Osisiogu remarked. “Special gratitude goes as well to the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, for nominating me.”

He dedicated his electoral success to the collective movement, stating that the new mandate “belongs to every student who believes in a stronger, more united Continental movement.”

Osisiogu further committed to a leadership style defined by service, emphasizing his intention to lead “with humility, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the aspirations of Africa’s students and young people.”

His renewed term ensures that Nigeria retains a pivotal role at the helm of continental student representation, thereby strengthening the country’s overall influence within the African youth demographic.

AASU stands as Africa’s largest and most historic student movement, boasting over five decades of activism and functioning as the unified voice for millions of students across the continent.

Beyond the Nigerian President, several other key officers were elected during this first phase of the congress. Divine Edem Kwadzoeh of Ghana was elected Secretary-General, while Maravilha Kapaia of Angola secured the position of Deputy President.

Other elected officials include Alistar Pfunye of Zimbabwe as Deputy Secretary-General, Rosália Djedjo of Guinea-Bissau as Vice President for West Africa, and Valentine Mugun Chepkoech of Kenya as Vice President for East Africa.

Vanessa Kokoe Ajavon of Togo was also elected to the key financial role of Secretary for Finance and Administration, rounding out the initial set of winners.

The AASU Secretariat extended its hearty congratulations to all successful candidates, while also praising member organizations for demonstrating strong commitment to the democratic values foundational to the Union since its establishment in 1972.

Meanwhile, the Union provided notice that the second phase of the 14th Elective Congress is scheduled to proceed on Monday, December 15, 2025. This phase will address several outstanding positions across the Executive Committee and Secretariat.

The remaining contested slots, according to the official statement, include the Vice Presidents for North, Central, and Southern Africa.

Additionally, multiple Executive Committee Member slots will be contested, along with key Secretariat portfolios such as the Secretary for Education and Students’ Rights, Secretary for Press and Information, and Secretary for Gender and Affirmative Action.

The All-Africa Students Union remains the most influential student body on the continent, uniting learners from basic education through to higher learning institutions across all 54 African countries. Since its creation, AASU has functioned as the umbrella organization for all national student unions and youth groups across Africa.