By: Maryam Ayinke Berende
The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), a federal institution founded in 1975 and located in Maiduguri, Borno State, has officially published the guidelines for its 2024/2025 Students’ Union Government (SUG) elections. Compiled on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, This report outlines the full electoral process, including key dates, eligibility requirements, nomination procedures, voting details, campaign regulations, and disciplinary measures—based on the official release from the university.
The SUG elections are a vital part of student representation at UNIMAID, where students elect individuals for key positions such as President, Vice President, Secretary General, and representatives at college, faculty, and hostel levels. With a student body exceeding 35,000 and a reputation for academic diversity, the university is reinforcing its dedication to democratic governance and student engagement through this structured and transparent election process.
According to university authorities, the electoral timeline began with the sale of nomination forms on Saturday, April 20, 2025, ending Saturday, April 27, 2025. Forms can be collected at the Students’ Affairs Division during office hours. Candidate screening is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, ensuring applicants meet the set standards before campaigns begin.
The official campaign period spans from Tuesday, April 22, 2025, to Sunday, April 27, 2025, and must be conducted exclusively online—through platforms like Unimaid Kanem Radio and approved social media groups. Physical posters, loud campaigning, and disorderly behavior are strictly prohibited to maintain campus discipline.
Voting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and will be conducted online via the university's student dashboard at https://umstad.online. This digital platform allows students to vote securely using their student ID and password, promoting accessibility and transparency.
Eligibility rules reflect UNIMAID’s focus on academic excellence and integrity. Candidates must not belong to any secret cult and must meet CGPA thresholds—3.50 for top executive roles (President, VP, Secretary General), 3.00 for other executive positions, and 2.50 for representative posts. Spill-over students are barred from contesting but can vote. Candidates must also resign from any other student leadership roles before contesting.
The nomination process includes obtaining forms, which must be validated by respective college/faculty officers and submitted to the Electoral Committee by April 26. Nomination fees vary: N20,000 for top executive roles, N10,000 for other executive positions, and N5,000 for representatives, payable to the university's Clubs and Associations Account.
Cleared candidates will be announced on faculty platforms, with a 24-hour complaint window provided to ensure fairness.
Strict campaign rules are in place. All campaigning must stay within campus boundaries, and the use of electronic platforms is mandatory. Misconduct—including early campaigning, unauthorized posters, vote trading, and false information—will result in disqualification and possible disciplinary action.
The Electoral Committee, chaired by Professor T. M. Buba, oversees the process, urging students to participate either as candidates or voters. Faculty members are tasked with spreading awareness, in line with UNIMAID’s history of active student involvement, as seen during recent flood relief efforts led by student leaders.
This year's comprehensive guidelines aim to set a high standard for student elections—highlighting transparency, inclusivity, and democratic values. As election day nears, anticipation grows, with hopes that this initiative will inspire future student elections across Nigeria. The digital format and strong regulatory framework reflect a forward-thinking approach to student governance.