In a landmark moment for continental student leadership, Nigerian student advocate H.E. Osisiogu Osikenyi has been re-elected President of the All-Africa Students Union (AASU), reaffirming his position at the helm of Africa’s foremost student movement. His re-election followed the successful conclusion of the first phase of AASU’s 14th Elective Congress, held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, in Accra, Ghana.
The outcome was formally announced by Miss Angel Mbuthia, Chairperson of the AASU Electoral Commission, who confirmed that the electoral process adhered strictly to the Union’s Constitution and the Electoral Guidelines. She added that only candidates duly nominated by member organisations in good financial standing were approved to contest.
Speaking shortly after the announcement on Sunday, Osisiogu expressed deep gratitude for the renewed confidence bestowed upon him. He thanked member states and acknowledged the pivotal support of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), which nominated him for the position.
“I am deeply honoured by the confidence the AASU community has placed in me,” he said. “This mandate belongs to every student who believes in a stronger, more united continental movement. I look forward to leading with humility, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the aspirations of Africa’s students and young people.”
Osisiogu’s re-election further elevates Nigeria’s influence within continental student politics, marking another milestone in the nation’s longstanding contribution to AASU, which has served as the collective voice of African students for over five decades.
Alongside Osisiogu, several key officials were also elected during this first phase of the congress. They include:
- Divine Edem Kwadzoeh (Ghana) – Secretary-General
- Maravilha Kapaia (Angola) – Deputy President
- Alistar Pfunye (Zimbabwe) – Deputy Secretary-General
- Rosália Djedjo (Guinea-Bissau) – Vice President for West Africa
- Valentine Mugun Chepkoech (Kenya) – Vice President for East Africa
- Vanessa Kokoe Ajavon (Togo) – Secretary for Finance and Administration
AASU congratulated all successful candidates and commended its member organisations for demonstrating once again the democratic ethos and unity that have guided the Union since its establishment in 1972.
The Electoral Commission also announced that the second phase of the 14th Elective Congress will take place on Monday, December 15, 2025. This round will decide several outstanding leadership roles, including Vice Presidents for North, Central, and Southern Africa; additional Executive Committee positions; and Secretariat portfolios such as Secretary for Education and Students’ Rights, Secretary for Press and Information, and Secretary for Gender and Affirmative Action.
As preparations begin for the next phase, observers across the continent describe Osisiogu’s renewed mandate as a clear endorsement of his efforts in strengthening student empowerment, advancing policy dialogue, and promoting cross-border collaboration within Africa’s educational ecosystem.
Founded in 1972, AASU remains the continent’s largest and most influential student body, representing millions of learners from primary to tertiary levels in all 54 African countries. Its mandate centres on advocacy, rights protection, and championing the development of education across the continent.
