By Hwok Nathaniel Gang
A presidential aspirant of the University of Jos Student Union Government (SUG), Peter Sambo, has declared his plans and vision for students ahead of the upcoming SUG election in the university.
While addressing fellow students during a campaign event on October 24th, 2023, held in the Faculty of Social Sciences, Sambo emphasized his commitment to rectifying the shortcomings of the previous administration.
Drawing on his experience as the former SUG House of Parliament Clerk, Sambo acknowledged that while he may not be the perfect candidate, he possesses the necessary capabilities to elevate the union.
“Leveraging my background as the former SUG House of Parliament Clerk, I humbly recognize that although I may not be the ideal candidate, I do possess the essential capabilities to uplift the union”, he said.
He pledged to prioritize student interests by establishing an effective communication platform, allowing students to actively participate in decision-making processes.
“My team and I have identified a need for improvement in the communication system between the Student Union Government and the various faculties within our university. To address this, we plan to implement an open-door policy, involving departmental presidents and class representatives in the decision-making process”, he said.
“We aim to establish interactive platforms to facilitate seamless communication and enhance participation in the decision-making affairs of our institution”, he added.
Sambo outlined plans to collaborate with faculties and departments to identify and address internal issues, ensuring a comprehensive approach to problem-solving.
Responding to skepticism from students, he assured them of his dedication to prioritizing their interests, citing past disappointments, particularly regarding the handling of school fee increments.
As part of his proposed initiatives, Sambo says he is committed to providing shuttle services for students residing both on and off-campus, with a special focus on the newly established faculties of Agriculture and Natural Sciences situated at a distance from the school gate.
In addition to addressing logistical concerns, he envisions a vibrant cultural environment within the university. He expressed intentions to unite various ethnic and tribal groups, leveraging the Directors of Social of each department to foster national consciousness among the student body.
Sambo envisions his administration, if elected, adopting a three-pronged approach that places a paramount focus on transparency and an open-door policy. This commitment aims to empower students, providing them with the opportunity to seek clarity on a diverse range of matters.
“In leading our institution, my administration will adhere to the core tenets of the ‘3 Cs of Unionism’: consultation to foster unity, consolidation of our strengths, and, when necessary, confrontation for progress. We stand committed to transparency, embodying an open-door policy where students can seek clarity, ensuring an empowered and informed community”, he said.
Furthermore, the S.U.G presidential aspirant highlighted his administration’s focus on sports, intending to collaborate with the Director of Sports and adhere to the guidelines set by the NUGA committee. This initiative aims to enhance the university’s sporting activities.
Concluding his campaign message, Sambo emphasized building stronger ties between the university, SUG, and the student body. He shared his vision for positive change within the union and pledged to keep students informed about his mandate and objectives.
“We will work tirelessly as a government to ensure that the mandate given to us by Josites is unwavering. Through enhanced collaboration with the school management, we aim to accomplish more. Our pledge is grounded in realism, focusing on attainable goals within our capacity”.
Other candidates contesting for the position of SUG president are: Jeremiah Da’a a 400-level student from the Faculty of Natural Sciences studying Science Laboratory Technology and Kensas Muknaan a 400-level student from the Faculty of Environmental Science studying Urban and Regional Planning
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