Ritman University has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to democratic governance, responsible leadership, and student participation with the successful conduct of the 2026/2027 Student Leadership Team Elections. The exercise, organized by the Student Affairs Department, culminated in the emergence of a new set of student leaders who will steer the affairs of the Students’ Leadership Team during the 2026/2027 academic session.
The election, held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Room 119, Akpabio Block, followed an engaging manifesto presentation by all contestants on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The manifesto session provided each aspirant with the opportunity to present their vision, policy objectives, and development agenda to members of the university community, while also allowing students to make informed choices ahead of the polls.
The electoral process witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across various departments, reflecting the vibrant democratic culture that Ritman University continues to nurture. The peaceful atmosphere throughout the election further demonstrated the maturity, discipline, and commitment of the students to the University’s core values of integrity, excellence, and responsible leadership.
At the conclusion of the voting process, Udoakang Isaac Alex of the Department of Chemical Sciences (Biochemistry Programme), emerged as the President-elect, securing 144 votes to earn the confidence of the student electorate. His victory marks the beginning of a new chapter in student representation, with expectations that the incoming administration will champion initiatives that promote academic excellence, student welfare, innovation, and campus development.
Also elected into the Students’ Leadership Team are Effiong Favour Offiong of the Department of Accounting as Vice President with 174 votes; Agbedo Favour Ehinwenma of Industrial Relations and Personnel Management (IRPM) as General Secretary with 143 votes; Abasiono John Umoren, also of IRPM, as Treasurer with 144 votes; Okon Jefferson Henry of Software Engineering as Financial Secretary with 138 votes; Idiong Diane Nnamso of Mass Communication as Director of Information, who recorded the highest number of votes in the election with 200 votes; Ashuman Ehinomen Gideon of Software Engineering as Director of Socials with 139 votes; and Ekemini Udobong Wilson of Computer Science as Director of Sports with 136 votes.
The election also featured healthy competition in the positions of Vice President and Director of Information. Dooter Chalya Tiyav of the Department of Sociology polled 116 votes in the Vice Presidential race, while Udobia Shadrach S. of the Department of Mass Communication secured 89 votes in the contest for Director of Information. The University commends all contestants for their courage, sportsmanship, and commitment to serving the student community.
The successful conduct of the election was made possible through the dedication and meticulous planning of the Student Affairs Department under the leadership of the Dean of Student Affairs, Mrs. Rita S. Umoh, whose office ensured that every stage of the electoral process adhered to the principles of fairness, transparency, credibility, and inclusiveness. Election officials, staff members, and student volunteers also played commendable roles in guaranteeing a peaceful and orderly exercise.
Speaking on the significance of the election, the University reaffirmed that student leadership remains an integral part of campus governance, providing students with valuable opportunities to develop leadership capacity, strengthen interpersonal skills, and contribute meaningfully to institutional growth. Through active participation in democratic processes, students are equipped with practical leadership experiences that prepare them to become responsible citizens and future leaders in society.
The newly elected executives are expected to work closely with the University Management and the Student Affairs Department to advance programmes and initiatives that foster academic excellence, student welfare, campus harmony, entrepreneurship, innovation, and community engagement. They are also expected to serve as a bridge between the student body and the University Administration by promoting constructive dialogue and representing students’ interests responsibly.
Ritman University congratulates the newly elected Students’ Leadership Team on their successful election and encourages them to uphold the values of integrity, accountability, selfless service, and excellence throughout their tenure. The University also commends the entire student body for their peaceful conduct, active participation, and commitment to strengthening the institution’s democratic culture.
As the new administration prepares to assume office, the University remains confident that the incoming executives will build on existing achievements, introduce innovative ideas, and work collaboratively with stakeholders to enhance the overall student experience. Their emergence reflects the confidence reposed in them by their colleagues and presents an opportunity to provide purposeful leadership that will positively impact the Ritman University community.
The successful conclusion of the 2026/2027 Student Leadership Team Elections further reinforces Ritman University’s reputation as an institution dedicated not only to academic excellence but also to producing graduates equipped with the leadership qualities, ethical values, and civic responsibility required to make meaningful contributions to national development.
