Professor Is-haq Olanrewaju Oloyede has concluded a transformative ten-year tenure as the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), officially handing over leadership to Professor Segun Aina. His departure marks the end of an era defined by significant technological advancements, increased financial transparency, and a revitalized public trust in Nigeria’s tertiary admission system.
During the handover ceremony at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja, Oloyede attributed the achievements of his administration to collective effort and divine support. He emphasized that his leadership philosophy, framed by the “Let’s Do It Together” initiative, focused on five core pillars: staff welfare, discipline, technological integration, transparency, and strategic networking.
Oloyede championed staff productivity by improving work environments, facilitating retirement benefits, and providing performance-based rewards. Simultaneously, he maintained a strict stance on institutional discipline to curb corruption. The former Registrar also oversaw major reforms for candidates, including a 30 percent reduction in application fees and enhanced support for those with special needs.
Technology served as the backbone of his administration. Innovations such as the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), expanded Computer-Based Testing (CBT), and biometric verification were instrumental in modernizing admissions and eliminating illicit “under-the-table” practices. These digital improvements, coupled with an open-door policy regarding financial disclosures, allowed JAMB to consistently return significant operational surpluses to the federal government.
Throughout his farewell, Oloyede acknowledged the backing of various government officials, security agencies, and private donors who supported infrastructure projects across the country. He expressed full confidence in his successor, Professor Segun Aina, noting that Aina’s expertise in ICT positions him to further elevate the Board. Oloyede concluded his address by thanking his family and the Nigerian public for their support during his decade of service.
