The National President of the defunct Gbaramatu National Club, Chief James Orubu, has described Professor Flora Tobolayefa Oluwafemi, the Vice-Chancellor of the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko, in the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West council area of Delta State, as "a pacesetter for formal education" in the riverine kingdom.

Chief Orubu's praise to the NMU's VC, according to the elder statesman, is in recognition of Prof. Oluwafemi's introduction of the Faculty of Science in addition to Engineering, Transport, and Environment faculties in the maritime university.

Recall that Prof. Oluwafemi, the first female VC who hails from Gbaramatu Kingdom had announced the expansion of academic programmes with an addition of Faculty of Science during the NMU's 5th matriculation ceremony that held at the Kurutie Campus on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Prof. Oluwafemi had also revealed the introduction of an advanced level programme known as the Joint University Preliminary Examination Board, JUPEB, while also assuring that during her five-year tenure, the NMU will be taken to "a new level".

Meanwhile, Chief Orubu, in his congratulations, salutes the VC for her courage and determination, and for sending a clear message to the girl child that it can be done.

He wrote, "Kudos to a leonine amazon, Honorable Vice-Chancellor, the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko. I write to congratulate you on the successful matriculation ceremony held on Saturday, 14th February, 2026, during which you announced an additional Faculty of Science to the university, congratulations!

"As one who believes in the potency of education as the only means of emancipating the human mind from mental slavery, I congratulate you in my capacity as an elder in Gbaramatu Kingdom, from one of the eight ruling houses in the Kingdom. I write to congratulate you as the National President of the defunct Gbaramatu National Club which is the precursor of the present Gbaramatu Kingdom.

"Honor must be given to whom it is due. You are a quintessential daughter of Gbaramatu Kingdom. You are a trailblazer, not only in Gbaramatu Kingdom, but far beyond. A pacesetter for formal education—a crystal-clear message to all students especially the female ones that it can be done with just a little move, discipline and determination," he added.

Chief Orubu further stated that the introduction of Faculty of Science resonates with modern developments and hence a right move on the part of the VC.

"In the 21st century when the world is going digital, I am excited to hear the addition of Faculty of Science in our university. To whom much is given, much is expected. Professor Flora Tobolayefa Oluwafemi (Nee Ubebe), may God grant you the wisdom to continue to excel, Amen!" he prayed.

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