Dr. Nduka Otiono

Biography

Nduka Otiono is a writer and Professor, serving as the Director of the Institute of African Studies at Carleton University in Canada. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Alberta and has had a notable career in academia and journalism. As a founding member of the Association of Nigerian Authors, Otiono has contributed significantly to the field of literature and cultural heritage in Nigeria. He has authored and co-edited twelve books, including 'Oral Literary Performance in Africa: Text' (2021) and 'Polyvocal Bob Dylan: Music, Performance, Literature' (2019). His research has been featured in top-ranked academic journals, and he has a forthcoming monograph, 'Street Stories Africa,' under contract with McGill-Queens University Press. Otiono has received several honors for his work, including the Capital Educator’s Award for Excellence in Teaching from Carleton University and multiple fellowships, such as the Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship. His creative writing has garnered accolades, including the ANA/Spectrum Prize for his short story collection and recognition for his poetry. He is active in literary circles, serving as President of the Canadian Association of African Studies and holds a position at the William Joiner Center for the Study of War and Social Consequences at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Otiono's research interests encompass Cultural Studies, Oral Performance Literature in Africa, and Postcolonial Studies, focusing on urban narratives and popular cultural forms in postcolonial Africa.

Research Interests