FUTO VC hails Tinubu, Uzodimma over education transformation
The newly-appointed Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Prof. Ikechukwu Nosike Dozie, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma for accelerated transformation
- Pledges to accelerate varsity’s growth
The newly-appointed Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Prof. Ikechukwu Nosike Dozie, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma for accelerated transformation in the education sector.
Dozie, who assumed office as the 9th substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution, said the support and policy direction of both leaders have created a conducive environment for growth and innovation in Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
Speaking shortly after his appointment at the Senate Chamber, the professor of Microbiology expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to build on the achievements of his predecessors while charting a new course for the university.
“I commend President Tinubu and Governor Uzodimma for their commitment to repositioning education in Nigeria. Their leadership has provided the necessary framework for institutions like FUTO to thrive,” he said.
He assured stakeholders that his administration would focus on academic excellence, research development, and infrastructural expansion to elevate the university’s global ranking.
Dozie further pledged to accelerate ongoing projects and introduce reforms aimed at enhancing the quality of teaching and learning.
“My vision is to move FUTO to greater heights by promoting innovation, strengthening industry partnerships, and ensuring that our graduates remain competitive globally,” he added.
His appointment followed what the university described as a rigorous and transparent selection process conducted by its Governing Council.
Until his emergence, Dozie served as Vice-Chancellor of Kingsley Ozumba (KO) Mbadiwe University, Ogboko, in Ideato South Local Government Area of Imo State.
Expressing delight over his appointment, the new VC pledged to build on existing achievements while advancing the institution’s founding vision.
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“The vision of the university is about reengineering and repositioning it to become truly world-class. That is what I have come to do with the team on ground,” he said.
“I want to assure you that I will continue where others stopped, in peace and harmony. My vision is to accelerate our progress—giving credit to past efforts while pushing the frontiers of knowledge forward.”
The outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oti, expressed gratitude to God for her journey, describing her tenure as one marked by peace and inclusiveness.
“Exactly five years ago, I came first and Dr. Dozie came second. We were in the race together. We have come a long way,” she said.
She also paid tribute to her mentor, the late Prof. Celestine Onwuliri, who she said foresaw her emergence as Vice Chancellor.
Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Senator Jack Tilley-Gyado, praised Prof. Oti for her impactful leadership, noting that she set high standards in integrity, fairness, and institutional development.
“She is a woman of substance whose legacies will remain indelible. Her contributions, including improved infrastructure and electricity access, have positioned FUTO on a higher pedestal,” he said.
Tilley-Gyado also expressed satisfaction with the selection process, describing it as seamless and credible.
“On behalf of Council, Senate, Congregation, staff and students, we hereby appoint Professor Ikechukwu Nosike Dozie as the 9th substantive Vice Chancellor of FUTO,” he declared while presenting the letter of appointment.
The event was attended by top officials of the university, governing council, staff, and media practitioners.
