By Frank Ulom
History was made on Wednesday as Comrade Margaret Ben was elected the first female Students’ Union Government (SUG) president of the Mainland Business School (MBS), Akpabuyo local government area of Cross River State.
She was elected alongside 21 other executive and legislative members of the SUG in a colourful event witnessed by the school management, staff, alumni, student leaders, and dignitaries, among others.
Described as the “Trailblazing” and “Tear Rubber” SUG President by the students of the institution, Ben officially took over the mantle of leadership with confidence, humility, and a message of unity, inclusion, accountability, and progress.
In her inaugural speech, the newly sworn-in president expressed deep gratitude to God Almighty for making her emergence possible and for granting her the grace to become a symbol of hope and change for students.
She thanked the Rector of MBS, Dr Ezekiel Aniecaan, Dean of Student Affairs, Mr Donald Obong, management, academic and non-academic staff, alumni executives, Electoral Committee (ELECO), campaign team, and the entire student body for believing in her vision and allowing her to serve.
Comrade Ben also paid tribute to past student leaders who contributed to building the foundation of the Student Union Government, including Comrade Starro Eno as pioneer president, Comrade Godas Asuquo, Senator Edeminang Effiom, Comrade Isaac Robert, Senator Umoh Okokon and the immediate past SUG President, Comrade Francis John.
According to her, their sacrifices and contributions paved the way for the new chapter now unfolding at MABUSS.
“Today is not just about Margaret Ben,” she stated during her speech, adding, “Today is about possibility, inclusion, and the belief that leadership has no gender. This victory belongs to every student who believes in positive change and equal opportunity.”
During the inauguration and handing over ceremony, while rendering stewardship of his administration, the immediate past SUG President, Comrade Francis John, thanked his executive members for their commitment.
He highlighted some challenges and urged his successor to ensure her administration is not divided. Calling on students to support her as the first female SUG President of Mainland Business School, he said her future is bright.
Below is the full list of the newly inaugurated students’ union government:
Executive Council
1. President: Comrade Margaret Ben
2. Vice President: Sen. David Etim
3. Secretary: Rejoice Ayo
4. Assistant Secretary: Etaba Irene
5. Financial Secretary: Akpan Good News
6. Treasurer: Akpan Comfort
7. Director of Socials: Oday Maryjane
8. Director of Welfare: Ibiam Oluchi
9. Director of Information: Elemi Collins
10. Director of Sports: Alphonsus Prince Tari
Senate
1. Sen. Prince Hogan Bassey
2. Ikpatt Imoh George
3. Esther Aniedi
4. Amechi Precious
5. Thomas Samuel
6. Kparika Asuquo
7. Eseghe Friday
8. Blessing Akpanke
9. Michael Elemi
10. Destiny Joshua
11. Deborah Etim
12. Ewah Emmanuel
See more photos below:
Photographs by Promise Eyo
