The Civil Society Alliance for Transparency and Development (CSATD) has lauded the Governing Council of the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko, for conducting what it described as a transparent and merit-based process in appointing a new Vice-Chancellor.
In a statement issued by its Convener and National Coordinator, Comrade Basah Mohammed, the organisation praised the appointment of Professor Flora Tobolayefa Oluwafemi, a professor of microbiology and seasoned administrator, as an exemplary case of institutional integrity in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.
Professor Oluwafemi emerged the successful candidate following a three-month selection process that began with a nationwide advertisement and culminated in a rigorous interview session held on 17 June. CSATD described the outcome as a rare example of due process and meritocracy in a system often criticised for political interference and lack of transparency.
“This process sets a gold standard for public universities in Nigeria,” the group noted. It commended the leadership of Mr Abdullahi Bardi, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, for steering the process without crisis or controversy. According to the civil society group, the credibility of the exercise has helped to ensure that the new Vice-Chancellor enters office with both institutional legitimacy and public confidence.
CSATD observed that vice-chancellorship appointments in many Nigerian universities have frequently been marred by internal wrangling, often driven by vested interests and opaque selection procedures. It noted that NMU’s deviation from this pattern deserves national recognition and could serve as a model for other institutions.
While congratulating Professor Oluwafemi, the group encouraged her to prioritise institutional development and foster stronger engagement with the university’s host community in Okerenkoko. “The new Vice-Chancellor must embrace the ‘town and gown’ approach by strengthening ties between the university and its immediate environment,” it stated.
The organisation also used the occasion to call for greater federal support for the university, particularly in terms of funding. It appealed to the Federal Ministry of Education, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and the National Assembly to intensify their backing for the university’s expansion and to ensure development initiatives also reach the surrounding community.
“Strengthening the university without attending to the needs of its host community only fosters resentment. National development must be inclusive,” the statement added.
CSATD reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to monitoring developments across the education sector, advocating for transparency, and promoting accountability within public institutions.
