The Governing Council of Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), located in Okerenkoko, has appointed Professor Oluwafemi Flora Tobolayefa to be the new Vice-Chancellor of the university.
Mr. Abdullahi Bardi, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, made this announcement during a briefing on Wednesday, June 18.
This appointment follows a careful selection process that commenced in March 2025, when a national call for applications was issued.
Bardi stated that twelve applications were submitted, with six candidates being shortlisted after an extensive screening process and interviewed on June 17, 2025.
He explained that the interviews took place under the supervision of a six-member selection committee formed during an emergency meeting of the Governing Council on June 3.
Professor Oluwafemi was selected as the leading candidate based on merit, achieving a score of 78.4%, surpassing the other candidates.
Bardi stressed that her appointment was based solely on the recommendations from the Selection Committee and adhered to the statutory requirements for federal university appointments.
He noted Professor Oluwafemi’s exemplary record in academics and leadership.
The experienced microbiologist and distinguished academic previously held the position of Foundation Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at NMU and was the former Head of Department at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.
Additionally, she is recognized as the first female professor from the Gbaramatu Kingdom.
The Governing Council expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary support of higher education and maritime institutions in Nigeria.
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The Council also praised the Minister of Education for his guidance, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its strategic collaboration, and the National Assembly for its ongoing legislative support to the university.
“This appointment demonstrates the integrity of the selection process and our shared commitment to establishing Nigeria Maritime University as a leading institution in maritime education, research, and national development,” Bardi remarked.
The Council urged all stakeholders, including staff, students, and community leaders, to rally behind the new Vice-Chancellor as she leads the institution into its upcoming phase of growth.
