In the bustling halls of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), one figure stands out not just for her academic brilliance but for her unwavering commitment to advancing agricultural science in Nigeria: Professor Elechi Franca Asawalam. As the Dean of the College of Crop and Soil Sciences, she has become a beacon of inspiration for students, colleagues, and aspiring female scientists across Africa.
Born and raised in Imo State, Prof. Asawalam’s journey began at the Federal Government College, Okigwe, where she was recognized early on for her exemplary character, winning the prize for the “Best Behaved Girl” in 1988. Her passion for science led her to the University of Ibadan, where she earned a B.Sc. in Agricultural Biology and an M.Sc. in Pathology, laying the foundation for a career that seamlessly blends research, education, and practical application. She further distinguished herself with a Ph.D. in Applied Entomology from MOUAU, a degree that anchors her in the complex world of crop protection and insect pest management.
Prof. Asawalam’s career is marked by international collaboration and recognition. From her tenure as a Research Fellow at the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) in Nairobi, funded by the Third World Organization for Women in Science, to her roles as Visiting Scientist at Texas A&M University and the University of Port Harcourt, she has consistently sought knowledge across borders, translating global insights into local solutions for Nigerian agriculture.
Her research is groundbreaking, focusing on the development of insecticides from plant products and the use of semiochemical-based methods for monitoring and controlling field insect pests. Her work on Bactrocera dorsalis, a devastating fruit fly species, has positioned her as a leader in sustainable and innovative pest management strategies. With numerous publications and a book to her name, Prof. Asawalam continues to push the boundaries of entomological research.
Leadership comes naturally to her. Beyond her academic achievements, she has held critical administrative roles at MOUAU, including Head of the Department of Plant Health Management and, since 2018, Dean of the College of Crop and Soil Sciences. Her vision for the college emphasizes excellence, mentorship, and empowering the next generation of agricultural scientists.
Prof. Asawalam’s influence extends beyond academia. She has worked with Pollutech Nigeria Limited on environmental initiatives, including mangrove revegetation projects in the Niger Delta, and actively supports young women in science through bursaries and mentorship programs. Her commitment to social impact mirrors her scientific rigor, creating a legacy that blends knowledge with societal benefit.
Beyond her research and leadership, Prof. Asawalam is deeply committed to mentorship and capacity building. She believes that the future of Nigerian agriculture lies in nurturing young talent and empowering women to take leading roles in science and technology. Through workshops, scholarships, and one-on-one guidance, she has inspired countless students to pursue careers in agricultural science, instilling not just knowledge but confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Her influence ensures that her legacy will endure through the generations of scientists she has guided and continues to inspire.
Widely traveled and highly respected, Prof. Elechi Franca Asawalam embodies the intersection of intellect, leadership, and purpose. She is more than an academic, she is a role model, a mentor, and a driving force in shaping the future of agriculture in Nigeria. Married and a proud mother, she balances the demands of professional life with personal fulfillment, proving that dedication and compassion can coexist harmoniously in the pursuit of excellence.
In a world where agriculture faces unprecedented challenges, Prof. Elechi Franca Asawalam is not just keeping pace, she is shaping the future. Through her pioneering research, visionary leadership, and tireless mentorship, she transforms challenges into opportunities, inspiring a generation to innovate, persevere, and lead. Her legacy is not measured merely in publications or positions held, but in the countless lives she has touched, the young scientists she has empowered, and the sustainable solutions she continues to bring to Nigerian agriculture. Prof. Asawalam is a force of intellect, courage, and purpose, a trailblazer whose impact will resonate for decades to come.
