Profile of new ASUU President, Prof Chris Piwuna

Professor Chris Goson Piwuna, a distinguished Nigerian psychiatrist, academic, and unionist, has been elected as the new national president of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), one of the most influential academic unions in Nigeria.

A firm advocate for the rights of university lecturers and a pioneer in mental health care, particularly for the elderly, Professor Piwuna’s contributions to both healthcare and higher education are noteworthy.

Background

Born in Jos, North-Central Nigeria, Professor Piwuna has dedicated his life to improving mental health care, with a special focus on older adults.

He is also a passionate advocate for the welfare of university lecturers, ensuring their rights are upheld through his leadership roles in ASUU.

Academic journey

Professor Piwuna earned his MBBS degree from the University of Jos in 2000.

Furthering his expertise in geriatric psychiatry, he obtained a Master’s degree in Aging from the University of Malta in 2013.

He is also a Fellow of the West African College of Physicians (FWACP), a prestigious recognition he earned in 2008.

With over 550 citations to his name, Professor Piwuna’s research focuses on the mental health of elderly populations and the dangers of misinformation in public health.

His work has significantly shaped the academic landscape of old age psychiatry.

Personal life

A family man, Professor Piwuna is married and a proud father of three children.

His personal life is rooted in the values of care and compassion that he advocates for in his professional work.

Career experience

As the head of the psychogeriatric unit at JUTH, Professor Piwuna specializes in mental health conditions affecting older adults, including dementia, depression, and late-onset psychosis.

His deep commitment to the well-being of elderly Nigerians is evident in his clinical practice and academic focus.

His personal experience with his father’s battle with dementia has been a driving force behind his pursuit of further education in geriatrics and gerontology at the University of Malta.

He is a member of the International Psychogeriatric Association and contributes actively to the mental health community.

Professor Piwuna also serves as a senior lecturer at the University of Jos, where he imparts his knowledge to the next generation of psychiatrists, and works as a consultant psychiatrist at Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH).

Advocacy

Outside of his clinical and academic roles, Professor Piwuna is a passionate advocate for the elderly.

He campaigns for policies that guarantee free healthcare and affordable housing for older Nigerians, striving to enhance their quality of life and uphold their dignity.

ASUU leadership

In May 2025, Professor Piwuna was elected as the National President of ASUU.

His leadership in the union marks a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by university lecturers in Nigeria and advocating for improved working conditions within the higher education sector.