The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) branch, has elected Professor Omeh Obasi Ngwoke as its new chairperson, marking a peaceful transition of leadership within the union.
The change of guard followed a successful congress and election held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the ASUU Secretariat, UNIPORT. Professor Ngwoke takes over from the outgoing chairperson, Professor Uzoma Darlington Chima, who led the branch for four years.
At the inauguration, Professor Chima formally handed over the reins of leadership, expressing gratitude to God, the union, and members for their support during his tenure. He highlighted key challenges faced by his administration, including agitation over unpaid promotion arrears, poor working conditions, and disputes with university management that affected both staff and students.
Reflecting on his stewardship, Chima said, “It has been a challenging but fulfilling four years. I am proud of what we were able to accomplish together as a union.”
The new chair, Prof. Ngwoke, a seasoned academic with expertise in African Literature, Drama, and Oral Literature, is expected to continue the union’s advocacy for improved staff welfare and institutional reform.
Reacting to the development, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, congratulated the newly elected ASUU leadership and urged them to prioritise the interests of the university and its academic community.
“We congratulate Professor O. O. Ngwoke on his election. As he takes on this critical responsibility, we encourage him and his team to work harmoniously and productively to strengthen ASUU UNIPORT. We also commend Professor Chima for a tenure marked by resilience and innovation,” the vice chancellor said.
ASUU UNIPORT has remained a vocal critic of policies perceived to undermine staff welfare and academic integrity, including the recent withholding of students’ results during disputes with the university administration.
The peaceful transition, according to observers, marks a new chapter for the union, with expectations high for sustained advocacy and constructive engagement under the new leadership.
