The Nigerian Society of Physical Sciences (NSPS) is pleased to celebrate 𝐃𝐫. 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐝𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐀𝐤𝐩𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐮, our Spotlight Member of the Week.
Dr. Akpootu is an Associate Professor of Atmospheric Physics at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria, whose research explores how atmospheric processes influence solar energy availability, environmental conditions, and technological development.
From investigating the movement of solar radiation through the atmosphere to examining how dust, moisture, and changing weather conditions affect the environment, he has developed a research career connecting atmospheric physics with practical challenges. His scientific contributions span solar radiation modelling, renewable energy assessment, aerosol physics, atmospheric radio refractivity, and environmental analysis, demonstrating how mathematical and statistical approaches can improve our understanding of the atmosphere and its influence on everyday life.
Dr. Akpootu obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Usmanu Danfodiyo University in 2006, followed by a Master of Science degree in Physics in 2012. He subsequently earned his PhD in Physics from Bayero University, Kano, in 2021. His doctoral research focused on estimating global solar radiation across Nigeria's four climatic zones using empirical models, establishing a foundation for his continuing investigations into atmospheric variability and renewable energy resources. His academic career progressed through successive teaching and research appointments, culminating in his promotion to Associate Professor of Atmospheric Physics in January 2025.
One of the most significant aspects of his research is his investigation of solar radiation and its potential for electricity generation. Although sunlight is abundant, the amount reaching the Earth's surface varies considerably with atmospheric conditions, geographical location, and season. By developing and evaluating mathematical models using meteorological variables such as temperature and sunshine duration, he has contributed to improving estimates of solar energy availability across different Nigerian climatic regions. These investigations provide valuable information for assessing photovoltaic energy potential, particularly where direct solar radiation measurements are limited.
Dr. Akpootu and his collaborators examined wind and solar energy potentials in Maiduguri, Nigeria, using 39 years of meteorological records from 1984 to 2022. Their investigation revealed seasonal variations in wind characteristics and solar resource availability, highlighting the importance of understanding local atmospheric conditions when evaluating renewable energy opportunities. This research contributes to the scientific assessment of alternative energy resources in Nigeria's Sahelian region.
Another important dimension of his scientific work involves atmospheric aerosols, including soot, dust, and water-soluble particles that influence the absorption and scattering of solar radiation. His investigations have examined aerosol optical properties, radiative forcing, and the effects of atmospheric moisture on suspended particles. In 2013, his research on the influence of relative humidity on the hygroscopic growth and bulk hygroscopicity of water-soluble aerosols received a Best Paper Award from The International Journal of Engineering and Science. The study contributed to understanding how changes in atmospheric humidity influence aerosol behaviour, an important factor in atmospheric visibility and radiation processes.
He has also conducted research on tropospheric radio refractivity, investigating how atmospheric temperature, pressure, and moisture affect the propagation of radio waves. These studies provide insights relevant to communication systems, particularly in regions where changing weather conditions influence radio signal behaviour. His wider investigations into Earth's albedo, atmospheric water vapour, evapotranspiration, and photosynthetically active radiation further demonstrate his interest in understanding the physical interactions connecting the atmosphere, energy, and the environment.
Through these contributions, he has established an extensive record of scientific publications and collaborations across atmospheric physics, renewable energy, and environmental science. His research has also attracted institutional support for investigations involving atmospheric radio refractivity, air pollution, and renewable energy potential, reflecting the relevance of his work to contemporary scientific and environmental challenges.
Beyond research, Dr. Akpootu has demonstrated a strong commitment to teaching and academic mentorship. At Usmanu Danfodiyo University, he has taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses in physics, meteorology, and mathematical methods, while supervising more than 80 undergraduate research projects and contributing to postgraduate research supervision. His academic service has included departmental administration, postgraduate coordination, and participation in educational development initiatives.
His contributions to the scientific community extend to professional leadership. In July 2026, he became the pioneer Chairman of the Sokoto State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Physics. He is also a member of several professional organisations, including the Nigerian Society of Physical Sciences, the Nigerian Association of Mathematical Physics, and the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria. Through these engagements, he continues to support scientific collaboration, professional development, and physics education.
Outside his academic responsibilities, he enjoys regular physical exercise, spending quality time with his family, and exploring traditional and contemporary musical genres. He also participates in state and community meetings and engages in educational initiatives that promote teaching and mentorship. These interests reflect his appreciation for personal well-being, meaningful relationships, and community development.
His personal philosophy emphasises thoughtfulness, responsibility, and understanding:
Think before you speak, listen before you respond, earn before you spend, and understand before you judge.
Looking ahead, Dr. Akpootu aspires to become a Nobel Prize winner in Physics, an ambition that reflects his determination to pursue scientific excellence and contribute research of international significance. His continuing interests in atmospheric processes, renewable energy, and environmental modelling provide opportunities to advance scientific understanding while addressing important challenges affecting society.
The Nigerian Society of Physical Sciences celebrates 𝐃𝐫. 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐝𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐀𝐤𝐩𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐮 for his contributions to atmospheric physics, particularly his research on solar radiation modelling, renewable energy assessment, aerosol properties, and atmospheric radio refractivity. We also recognise his dedication to scientific education, research mentorship, professional leadership, and community development.