Pius Iliya Simon Appointed as New Minister of Health, Students' Union Government (SUG), University of Maiduguri
BOPSA
Pius Iliya Simon Emerges as New Minister of Health in UNIMAID Students' Union Government
The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) Students' Union Government (SUG) has announced the appointment of Pius Iliya Simon as the new Minister of Health for the 2025/2026 academic session.
The appointment was officially made by Comrade Aliyu Idriss Dakasku, the President of the UNIMAID SUG, who described the selection as a strategic move to bring proven, passionate, and competent leadership to the critical health portfolio.
This elevation marks another milestone in the rising profile of the young pharmacy student from Maiduguri, Borno State, whose consistent dedication to student welfare and leadership has earned him widespread recognition across campus associations.
Rising Through the Ranks: A Remarkable Leadership Journey
Pius Iliya Simon has built an impressive resume of student leadership roles, demonstrating excellence in health advocacy, media innovation, administration, and community outreach. His journey reflects a clear trajectory toward impactful service in student governance.
Director of Health, Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students (PANS) UNIMAID – 2024
In this foundational role, he spearheaded health-related initiatives within the pharmacy faculty, focusing on student wellness, awareness programs, and coordination of health support activities that laid the groundwork for his future health leadership responsibilities.
Special Assistant (S.A.) to the NUBOSS President on Medical Outreach – 2024
Serving under the National Union of Borno State Students (NUBOSS), he actively supported medical outreach programs aimed at providing healthcare access, education, and support to students and surrounding communities in Borno State.
Director of Press, Media and Publicity, PANS UNIMAID – 2025
Simon transformed the Directorate of Press, Media, and Publicity into a vibrant and highly effective arm of PANS UNIMAID. Under his dynamic leadership, the directorate achieved significant improvements in information dissemination, student engagement, editorial content, and overall publicity. His innovative strategies ushered in what many described as “a new era of excellence” in PANS media operations. He successfully coordinated major events, including the PANS Week Treasure Hunt, and was nationally recognized for his contributions — featured in the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students (PANS) national magazine.
Secretary-General, Borno State Pharmacy Students Association (BOPSA) – 2025
Serving alongside President Usman Saidu Bukar and Vice President Maryam M. Malut, Pius Iliya Simon brought administrative efficiency and commitment to BOPSA. He played a key role in organizing successful programs, fostering unity among Borno State pharmacy students, and advancing the association’s goals. His hard work and dedication were widely commended by peers and leaders alike.
In addition to these roles, Pius Iliya Simon was selected as a Millennium Fellow (Class of 2025) by the United Nations Academic Impact and Millennium Campus Network (MCN). Chosen from among thousands of applicants worldwide (less than 5% acceptance rate), he has been advancing key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). Fellows and mentors have praised his passion for creating positive community impact and his willingness to “go the extra mile.”Expectations for the New Minister of Health
As Minister of Health, Pius Iliya Simon is expected to champion student health and welfare across the University of Maiduguri. His portfolio will likely include strengthening collaboration with the university health center, organizing impactful health awareness campaigns (on issues such as mental health, hygiene, disease prevention, and nutrition), improving sanitation standards, and addressing emerging health challenges faced by students.
His strong background in pharmacy, combined with hands-on experience in health initiatives and proven leadership, positions him ideally to deliver tangible results under the “Students First Agenda” of the current SUG administration led by President Aliyu Idriss Dakasku.
Pius Iliya Simon’s story is one of purposeful leadership — rising steadily from departmental health and media roles to a prominent position in the university-wide Students’ Union Government.The entire UNIMAID community looks forward to innovative and student-centered health programs under his tenure as Minister of Health.
Long live the University of Maiduguri!
Long live the Students’ Union Government!
