Profile: Prof. Nnenna Nnannaya Oti, 8th Substantive and First Female Vice-Chancellor of FUTO

Prof. Nnenna Nnannaya Oti, BSc, MSc, PhD, is the 8th substantive and first female Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO). Hailing from Afikpo, Ebonyi State, she is a Professor of Soil Science and Environmental Conservation with extensive academic and professional experience.

Prof. Oti earned a First Class Honours Degree in Soil Science and an MSc in Soil Microbiology/Biochemistry from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). She also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Irrigation Engineering from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium, and won the National Universities Commission (NUC) Best PhD Award in Nigeria in 2002.

She has served FUTO for over 30 years, holding roles such as Head of the Department of Soil Science and Technology, Dean of the Postgraduate School, and Chairman of the Committee of Deans. Her service includes membership on various University Senate and Council committees.

Prof. Oti is a Fellow of the Soil Science Society of Nigeria and a Chartered Soil Scientist, with membership in several international soil and agricultural societies. She has authored over 70 peer-reviewed publications and delivered more than 100 invited papers on topics including gender issues, youth empowerment, and leadership.

Her research contributions include leading teams on significant projects such as the World Bank Centre of Excellence at FUTO and the European Economic Commission Linkage Research Trust. Prof. Oti has received numerous awards, including the Federal Government Merit Award, and has been a Visiting Scholar and Professor at various institutions.

Known for her dedication to academic excellence and service, Prof. Oti is also an advocate for social justice and positive societal impact. She is married with three adult children and maintains a commitment to health and fitness through regular exercise.