By Hassan Ibrahim
A new leadership has emerged in the branch election of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, as Comrade Shuaibu Ahmed Halilu was elected chairman after securing 1,209 votes in the keenly contested 2026 branch election.
Halilu defeated his closest rival, Mohammed Auwal Abubakar, who polled 654 votes in the election conducted across various voting clusters within the university community.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the announcement of the results, Halilu described the election as a historic moment for the union, noting that members had demonstrated commitment to strengthening the association through democratic participation.
According to him, the election marks an important step in ensuring that SSANU continues to provide effective representation for its members.
“For a trade union to be truly effective, it requires leaders of integrity, unwavering commitment and deep-seated passion for the aspirations, mission and vision of the union,” he said.
Halilu emphasized that his leadership would focus on strengthening the union, protecting members’ interests and promoting unity through teamwork.
He assured members that issues relating to staff welfare, promotion, career progression and outstanding allowances would receive urgent attention during his tenure.
“My mission is to give SSANU the strength, vibrancy and resoluteness required to protect the interests of all members,” Halilu added.
The newly elected chairman also promised to promote capacity building and professional development for members through seminars, workshops and conferences aimed at aligning the branch with global best practices.
He further pledged to support women empowerment within the union, committing to the implementation of a 35 percent affirmative action plan to ensure adequate representation of women in appointments and committees.
Halilu also raised concerns over challenges faced by retired members in accessing their National Housing Fund benefits, promising to pursue the matter decisively to ensure that members receive their full entitlements after retirement.
Other officials elected during the SSANU ABU Zaria branch election include Dr. Hassan Mukhtar as Vice Chairman, Bashir Yakubu Dan Bassey as Secretary, Mansur Garba as Treasurer, Shehu Namadi as Financial Secretary, Hasiya Ali as Public Relations Officer and Aminu Mohammed Lawal as Assistant Secretary.
Also elected were Nuhu Shu’aibu as Ex-Officio, Garba Haruna (Ability) as Trustee, and Mairo Musa as Women Coordinator.
Halilu thanked members of the union for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to lead with transparency, inclusiveness and dedication to the welfare of all members.
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