Isolima Tamunamiebi Dateme, a highly respected and accomplished educator, left an enduring legacy in the field of education in Nigeria. Known for her exceptional leadership, she served as the headmistress of the Nigerian Navy Primary School in Borokiri, Port Harcourt, where she shaped the minds of countless students for over a decade.
Early Life and Background
Born on November 6, 1938, in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Isolima (née Ibanibo) hailed from a distinguished family. Her father, Chief Stanley Sokari Ibanibo, was a prominent figure from Ogoloma, Okrika, while her mother, Nelly Ibanibo, was the granddaughter of Chief Oju Daniel Kalio, the paramount chief of Okrika. She was the second of seven children. Raised by her maternal grandmother in Okrika, Isolima’s early years were marked by a nurturing environment that prioritized education, as her father worked in the Federal Civil Service and frequently traveled.
Education
Isolima’s education began at Okrika School in the early 1940s, before continuing her schooling in Cameroon during her father’s tenure there. After returning to Port Harcourt, she completed her primary education at St. Cyprians School. Rather than pursue a conventional secondary education, Isolima chose to become a teacher, embarking on a career that would span decades. She trained at the Preliminary Teacher Training College (PTC) in Aba and began her teaching career in Okrika. Over the years, she worked at several schools, including St. Martins School in Ogu, Bishop Crowther Memorial School in Abonnema, and St. John’s School in Port Harcourt.
Teaching Career
Isolima’s path to becoming an educator took a significant turn when, during an Anglican Synod meeting in Okrika, she impressed Rivers State Education Secretary Mr. R.I. Uzoma with her leadership skills. He recommended her for a career in teaching, leading to her enrollment in the PTC and later postings at various schools. After the Nigerian Civil War, she returned to the Girls School in Okrika and continued her studies at the Rivers State College of Education. Isolima completed her training and later served in the UPE Primary School in Borokiri as part of her National Youth Service.
Pioneering Headmistress
In 1984, Isolima applied for a teaching position at the newly established Nigerian Navy Primary School in Port Harcourt. She was appointed as the pioneer headmistress and served in this role for 13 years, overseeing the school’s growth and success. During her tenure, she also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Port Harcourt. Following a restructuring of the Navy schools, Isolima transitioned to a supervisory role overseeing Navy schools in Port Harcourt and later moved to the Rivers State Primary Schools Education Board, where she became a Deputy Director before retiring in 2005.
Faith and Family
A devout Christian, Isolima’s faith was central to her life. Baptized at three months old, she was an active member of the Anglican Church throughout her life, serving in various capacities, including as an usher, Sunday school teacher, and member of the Women’s Guild and Mother’s Union.
Isolima married Daniel Abibo Dateme, the eldest son of Chief Honest Bibi Dateme of Abonnema. Though their marriage was brief due to his untimely passing, they had three daughters. Isolima remained a dedicated mother and grandmother, cherishing her family and nurturing her daughters with great care.
Legacy and Passing
Isolima Tamunamiebi Dateme passed away on October 4, 2019, in Abuja, Nigeria, at the age of 81. Her contributions to education, her unwavering faith, and her commitment to her family and community have left a lasting impact. She is remembered not only for her exceptional work as an educator but also for her remarkable character, her advocacy for justice, and her dedication to helping others.