Historic Milestone as MOUAU Appoints First Female Vice-Chancellor

The Governing Council of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) has appointed Professor Ursula Ngozi Akanwa as the institution’s seventh Vice-Chancellor, marking a historic milestone as she becomes the first woman to occupy the office since the university’s establishment.

The announcement was made by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Comrade Fidelis Chukwunweike Edeh, shortly after the Council’s 95th meeting, where members deliberated on and approved the report of the Selection Panel.

Professor Akanwa, who currently serves as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Development), will assume office on March 1, 2026. She succeeds the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, whose tenure concludes at the end of February.

A distinguished scholar in Educational Measurement and Evaluation, Professor Akanwa joined MOUAU in 2010 as an Associate Professor from Abia State University, Uturu. Through dedication and academic excellence, she rose to the rank of full Professor in 2014.

Her appointment is widely regarded as a significant step in the university’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and inclusive leadership.

Observers say her experience in research administration and institutional development positions her well to consolidate the gains recorded under previous administrations while steering the university toward greater national and global relevance.

With this development, stakeholders within and beyond the university community have expressed optimism that her leadership will further strengthen MOUAU’s mandate as a premier institution for agricultural education and research in Nigeria.

Details will come shortly