The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has witnessed a major leadership transition as Prof. Ishaq Oloyede officially bowed out as Registrar after ten years in office, handing over to Prof. Segun Aina on Friday, July 31, 2026.
The development marks the end of Oloyede's two-term tenure, during which he led several reforms that reshaped Nigeria's tertiary admissions system through technology, transparency, accountability, and institutional strengthening.
Speaking during the handover ceremony in Abuja, Oloyede reflected on his decade-long stewardship, describing the assignment as a privilege and responsibility that required commitment, discipline, and teamwork. He noted that the Board's achievements were built on five key principles: staff welfare, discipline, technology, transparency, and networking.
According to him, JAMB invested over ₦8 billion in staff retirement savings and financial security during his tenure. The administration also introduced a 13th-month salary, improved examination-duty allowances, upgraded office facilities across the country, and enhanced retirement benefits for staff members.
Oloyede further highlighted the Board's technological transformation, including the expansion of Computer-Based Testing (CBT), biometric verification systems, CCTV surveillance, electronic payment platforms, and improvements to the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS).
While acknowledging that challenges and technical glitches occasionally occurred, he maintained that the Board remained committed to correcting mistakes, strengthening systems, and improving service delivery.
"We made mistakes because we are human, and we corrected them. Whatever was done right was a collective effort, while I accept responsibility for whatever fell short," he said.
Taking over from Oloyede is Prof. Segun Aina, a Professor of Computer Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. Appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in May 2026, Aina officially assumes office on August 1, becoming the youngest Registrar in JAMB's 48-year history at the age of 40.
The Presidency described him as a distinguished academic and systems expert with extensive experience in examination systems, digital infrastructure, and institutional reform. His relationship with JAMB dates back to his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year when he began his professional engagement with the Board.
In his inaugural address, Aina pledged to preserve JAMB's integrity while building a stronger institution driven by professionalism, accountability, innovation, and service excellence. He assured candidates, parents, and tertiary institutions that fairness, merit, and transparency would continue to guide the admission process. He also promised to intensify the fight against examination malpractice through technology and stronger collaboration with security agencies.
As JAMB enters a new phase of leadership, stakeholders across Nigeria's education sector will be watching closely to see how the new Registrar builds on the reforms and legacy of his predecessor.
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