Engr. Theophilus Ukaa wins second term as JOSTUMAA National President at the 2026 Makurdi convention.
The Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi Alumni Association held its 2026 National Elective Convention on Saturday, October 10, 2026, in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, gathering graduates to chart a new course for the institution.
During the gathering, members successfully re-elected Engr. Theophilus Ukaa as their National President alongside other executive officials, granting them a fresh mandate to steer the affairs of the association for another administrative term.
The event centered around the theme of institutional excellence and sustainable development, with university leaders urging alumni to embrace unity and collective responsibility, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
JOSTUMAA 2026 Convention Theme and Vision
The convention featured the theme From Alumni to Partners in Progress, aimed at repositioning the association for global impact. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Isaac Itodo, commended the executive committee for their dedicated service to the academic community.
Addressing the delegates, Professor Itodo described the alumni network as an extended family. He urged all graduates to remain united, leverage their numerical strength, and avoid internal divisions that could hinder their collective progress.
Engr. Josiphiah Kumator, chairman of the planning committee, introduced a strategic agenda focusing on student empowerment, university partnerships, infrastructure development, and transparent digital governance for the coming years.
Overcoming Legal Challenges and Past Disputes
Reflecting on his previous tenure, President Theophilus Ukaa acknowledged that the association had faced severe challenges, including years of internal disagreements, financial difficulties, and prolonged court cases following past disputes.
These legal battles unfortunately affected organizational bank accounts and restricted executive functions. Ukaa also disclosed that over 10 million Naira in statutory deductions from graduating students remained unpaid by the university administration.
Despite these hurdles, Ukaa highlighted notable successes, such as facilitating the recruitment of over 70 graduate assistants and helping more than 50 former students complete their studies and successfully obtain their academic certificates.
Call for Global Impact and Institutional Excellence
Keynote speaker Professor John Igoli, serving as Director of Research and Development at the university, urged alumni to take greater responsibility for campus development through financial backing, mentorship programs, and infrastructure projects.
Professor Igoli emphasized the importance of lifelong connections, pointing out that adequate infrastructure, robust research funding, and career guidance are vital areas where dedicated alumni can make a lasting and meaningful difference.
In his closing acceptance speech, Ukaa expressed deep gratitude for the renewed mandate. He called on every member to put past differences aside, promising an open administration focused on collaboration and mutual understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was re-elected as JOSTUMAA National President at the 2026 convention?
Engr. Theophilus Ukaa was re-elected as the National President of the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi Alumni Association during the 2026 National Elective Convention.
Where did the JOSTUMAA 2026 National Elective Convention take place?
The convention was held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, in Makurdi, the capital city of Benue State, Nigeria.
What was the theme of the JOSTUMAA 2026 convention?
The theme of the event was From Alumni to Partners in Progress: Repositioning JOSTUMAA for Institutional Excellence, Global Impact and Sustainable Development.
Who is the Vice Chancellor of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi?
Professor Isaac Itodo serves as the Vice Chancellor of the institution, who also addressed the alumni members during the Makurdi event.
