Professor Oluwafemi Flora Tobolayefa has emerged as the new Vice-Chancellor of the Nigeria Maritime University, NMU, Okerenkoko, Gbaramatu Kingdom in the Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State.

The appointment of Professor Oluwafemi by the Governing Council of the NMU was announced by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Mr. Abdullahi Bardi, at a briefing on Wednesday June 18, 2025.

According to Bardi, 12 applications were received with six candidates shortlisted after a rigorous screening process, followed by a meticulous selection process that began in March 2025 with a national call for applications was followed by interviews conducted by a six-member selection committee constituted during the Governing Council’s emergency meeting held on June 3.

Professor Oluwafemi after the process emerged as the top candidate based on merit, with a score of 78.4%, outperforming other contenders.

Professor Oluwafemi is a seasoned microbiologist and accomplished academic who previously served as the Foundation Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of NMU and was a former Head of Department at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

Asides her track record of academic excellence and leadership, she also holds the distinction of being the first female professor from the Gbaramatu Kingdom.

The Governing Council appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary support for the development of higher education and maritime institutions in the country. 

The Council also commended the Minister of Education for his guidance, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its strategic partnership, and the National Assembly for its continued legislative support to the university.

“This appointment reflects the integrity of the process and our collective resolve to position the Nigeria Maritime University as a center of excellence in maritime education, research, and national development,” Bardi stated.

The Council called on all stakeholders, including staff, students, and community leaders, to support the new Vice-Chancellor as she steers the institution into its next phase of growth.

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