The Governing Council of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) has officially elected Professor Ikechukwu Nosike Simplicius Dozie as the 9th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution. Professor Dozie, a globally recognized Public Health Scientist and seasoned academic, emerged as the Vice-Chancellor Elect following a rigorous selection process concluded yesterday.
He is set to succeed the incumbent, Professor Nnenna Oti, when her tenure officially concludes in June 2026, marking a significant leadership transition for Nigeria’s premier university of technology.
Born on March 3, 1966, in Umuokisi Amuzi, Ahiazu Mbaise, Imo State, Professor Dozie’s academic journey is one of immense distinction. He holds a Bachelor of Science (Combined Honours) in Microbiology and Biochemistry and a Master’s degree in Medical Microbiology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He furthered his expertise at the University of Jos, where he earned a PhD in Public Health Parasitology, and later refined his administrative skills with a Diploma in Strategy and Innovation from the Galilee International Management Institute in Israel.
Professor Dozie’s professional career is deeply intertwined with the growth of FUTO and the broader Nigerian university system. He has served as a Professor of Microbiology (Medical Microbiology and Parasitology) and held several high-ranking positions within FUTO, including Dean of the School of Health Technology (SOHT) and Director of the Linkages and Advancement Unit. His leadership experience also extends beyond the "Land of Gold," as he previously held academic and research roles at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and Imo State University (IMSU), bringing a wealth of cross-institutional knowledge to his new role.
Currently, Professor Dozie is serving the final month of his tenure as the Vice-Chancellor of Kingsley Ozumba (K.O.) Mbadiwe University (KOMU) in Ideato, Imo State. His term at KOMU, which began in May 2021, is set to officially conclude next month, may 2026, allowing for a seamless transition to his new responsibilities at FUTO.
At KOMU, he is being lauded for his commitment to academic stability and digital innovation. His influence is also felt on the international stage, having served as a consultant for the World Health Organization (WHO) and as a Fellow of the Parasitology and Public Health Society of Nigeria (PPSN).
This new chapter for FUTO is marked by a strong sense of optimism, as Professor Dozie is expected to build upon the formidable legacy and numerous achievements recorded under the leadership of Professor Nnenna Oti. With a focus on moving the university forward and maintaining the high standards of excellence established by the current administration, the Vice-Chancellor Elect is positioned to ensure a smooth transition that prioritizes stability, innovation, and global competitiveness. With over 100 scientific publications and decades of mentorship to his credit, his return to FUTO is viewed as a homecoming for a leader ready to drive the next phase of the university's technical mission.
