A Ghanaian academic in Finland has made history after becoming the first-ever Ghanaian elected to high office in the Nordic country.
Lukumanu Iddrisu, a part-time lecturer at the Vaasa University of Applied Sciences (VAMK), was elected to the Vaasa Municipal Council after garnering 284 votes in the 2025 municipal elections, earning him a seat on the council on the ticket of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
“This win is not just about me — it’s about visibility, representation, and opening doors for others,” said Iddrisu. “It’s a message that no matter where you start, you can rise, contribute, and lead.”
The Ghanaian’s victory marked a remarkable rise from his arrival in Finland in 2014. Studying for an undergraduate degree, he worked as a cleaner on the side as he rose up the academic ladder. After completing his master’s degree at the University of Vaasa, his thesis was adjudged the ‘Thesis of the Year’ in the Strategic Business Development programme in 2022.
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Iddrisu has also earned many milestones for Ghana in Finland, becoming the first Ghanaian to win the Alumnus of the Year award at VAMK in 2021. Following his education, he worked diligently towards helping other international students in Finland on how to navigate the academic, cultural and professional landscape of the country. Iddrisu is also known for his relentless pursuit of promoting equitable opportunities for all.
News of his victory sparked congratulatory messages across social media as many praised him for making Ghana proud.
“HISTORIC FEAT. Our brother @LukumanuIddrisu…has made history by becoming the first Ghanaian ever elected as a municipal councilor in Finland,” wrote prominent sports journalist Saddick Adams, aka Sports Obama.
