Preamble:

• WHEREAS, the Animal Science Association of Nigeria (ASAN) is established to promote the advancement of animal science in Nigeria;
• WHEREAS, the members of ASAN are committed to fostering research, education, and best practices in animal production and related fields;
• WHEREAS, it is desirable to establish a constitution that will govern the affairs of ASAN;

Article I: Name and Objectives

• Section 1: Name: The name of the association shall be the Animal Science Association of Nigeria (ASAN).
• Section 2: Objectives: The objectives of ASAN shall be:
  • To promote the advancement of animal science in Nigeria.
  • To foster research and innovation in animal production.
  • To provide a platform for the exchange of knowledge and ideas among animal scientists.
  • To organize conferences, workshops, and seminars related to animal science.
  • To publish journals and other publications related to animal science.
  • To advocate for policies that support the development of the animal science sector.
  • To promote ethical and sustainable practices in animal production.
  • To collaborate with local and international organisations that share similar objectives.
  • To provide educational resources to members and the public.

Article II: Membership

• Section 1: Categories of Membership:
  • Student Membership
  • Graduate Membership
  • Full Membership
  • Honorary Membership
• Section 2: Eligibility: Define the eligibility criteria for each membership category.
• Section 3: Application and Admission: Outline the application process and the body responsible for admitting members.
• Section 4: Membership Fees: Specify the membership fees and payment procedures.
• Section 5: Rights and Privileges: Define the rights and privileges of each membership category.
• Section 6: Termination of Membership: Outline the grounds and procedures for termination of membership.

Article III: Governance

• Section 1: General Assembly:
  • Define the composition and functions of the General Assembly.
  • Specify the frequency of General Assembly meetings.
  • Outline the voting procedures.
• Section 2: Executive Committee:
  • Define the composition and functions of the Executive Committee.
  • Specify the roles and responsibilities of each officer (e.g., President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer).
  • Outline the election process and term of office.
• Section 3: Committees:
  • Define the establishment and functions of standing and ad-hoc committees.
  • Include committees such as the Publication committee, the conference organizing committee, and the ethics committee.
• Section 4: Election of Officers:
  • Detail the election procedures, including nomination and voting processes.
  • Specify the term of office for elected officials.
  • Create rules for handling vacancies.

Article IV: Finances

• Section 1: Sources of Income:
  • Membership fees
  • Grants and donations
  • Conference and workshop fees
  • Publication sales
• Section 2: Financial Management:
  • Outline the procedures for managing and auditing the association’s finances.
  • Specify the responsibilities of the Treasurer.
  • Define the authorization process for expenditures.
• Section 3: Audit:
  • Describe the process of auditing the financial records of the association.

Article V: Meetings

• Section 1: General Meetings:
  • Specify the frequency and purpose of general meetings.
  • Outline the procedures for calling and conducting meetings.
• Section 2: Executive Committee Meetings:
  • Specify the frequency and purpose of Executive Committee meetings.
  • Outline the procedures for calling and conducting meetings.
• Section 3: Quorum: Define the quorum required for valid meetings.

Article VI: Amendments

• Section 1: Amendment Procedures: Outline the procedures for amending the constitution, including the required votes and approval processes.

Article VII: Dissolution

• Section 1: Dissolution Procedures: Outline the procedures for dissolving the association and the distribution of assets.

Article VIII: Miscellaneous Provisions

• Section 1: Code of Ethics: Establish a code of ethics for members.
• Section 2: Dispute Resolution: Outline the procedures for resolving disputes among members.
• Section 3: Seal: Define the official seal of the association.

Important Considerations:

• Legal Compliance: Ensure that the constitution complies with the laws and regulations of Nigeria.
• Clarity and Precision: Use clear and precise language to avoid ambiguity.
• Democratic Principles: Uphold democratic principles in the governance of the association.
• Flexibility: Allow for amendments to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Inclusivity: Ensure that the constitution is inclusive and reflects the diversity of the membership.