By Emmanuel Nduka
Commander Matuwo Olufokunbi has made history as the first Nigerian-American to qualify as a nuclear engineer under the U.S. Navy’s esteemed Nuclear Propulsion Program. This achievement also cements his place as the third Nigerian-born officer to command a U.S. Navy warship.
The groundbreaking news was shared by Victor Agunbiade, a fellow Nigerian-born U.S. Navy officer, on his X handle on Friday.
Agunbiade expressed his pride in Olufokunbi’s remarkable career trajectory, writing: “Big congratulations to my brother CDR Olufokunbi Matuwo—another Nigeria-born US Navy Commander takes the helm of USS Oak Hill (LSD 51). Proud of you, brother!!”
The USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) officially welcomed CDR Olufokunbi as the new commanding officer. The ship’s Facebook page announced the leadership change, saying, “Today, we bid farewell to CDR Jason Nowell as CDR Matuwo Olufokunbi assumed command of our Nation’s Protector.”
Olufokunbi’s journey began in January 2001 when he enlisted in the Navy as an Electronic Technician. After being accepted into the Seaman to Admiral Program, he graduated from Old Dominion University with a degree in Electrical Engineering in 2008. His career has also seen him earn a Master’s in Engineering Management and complete the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program.
In addition to commanding the USS Oak Hill, Olufokunbi has served in various roles, including as Nuclear Programs Officer at the Navy Recruiting Command and as the lead for Warfighting Requirements and Assessment at Commander, Naval Surface Forces Atlantic.
He has been decorated with several military honors, including the Navy Commendation Medal (4 Awards) and Navy Achievement Medal (3 Awards), solidifying his exceptional service and leadership.
Olufokunbi’s ascent through the ranks represents a significant milestone not only for the U.S. Navy but also for Nigerian-Americans making a mark in military history.
