Transforming JAMB: Oloyede’s roadmap to world-class excellence
By Idris Alooma
As Emeritus Prof. Ishaq Olanrewaju Oloyede took the podium at the BON Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, on Sunday, January 25, 2026, the anticipation was palpable. The gathering of media executives was eager to hear about the strides JAMB has made under his leadership. “The proof of the pudding is in the eating,” and the address of the JAMB Registrar did not disappoint.
In his opening remarks, Emeritus Prof. Oloyede expressed his sincere appreciation for the unwavering support of the media, saying, “Your commitment to accurate, fair, and timely coverage has strengthened public understanding of our work.” This statement echoed the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.”
The purpose of the meeting was clear: to review JAMB’s performance, highlight its achievements, and chart a course for the future. Prof. Oloyede’s vision for JAMB is to become a world-class examination body, providing credible and reliable services. To achieve this, he has introduced innovative measures, such as Computer-Based Testing (CBT) and biometric verification, to curb examination malpractice.
One of the notable initiatives is the discontinuation of Trial-testing Mock Examination, which had become a conduit for malpractices. As Prof. Oloyede put it, “Fighting examination malpractice is a war, let’s fight it together.” The Board has also intensified its efforts to curb identity manipulation, with severe penalties for those found guilty.
Prof. Oloyede’s vision for JAMB is a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s education sector, and his commitment to transparency and accountability is a breath of fresh air. His leadership has injected much-needed transparency into JAMB’s operations, making him a deserving recipient of kudos.
The introduction of CBT and biometric verification has curbed examination malpractice, and JAMB’s efforts to curb identity manipulation are commendable. The discontinuation of Trial-testing Mock Examination is a step in the right direction, and the accreditation of 924 CBT centers is a testament to JAMB’s commitment to excellence.
The 2026 registration exercise has commenced with Prof. Oloyede emphasising the importance of transparency, stating, “All centers participating in the UTME registration exercise would be monitored live from JAMB Headquarters.” Candidates are advised to register early, as spaces in preferred examination towns may be limited.
Prof. Oloyede’s roadmap for JAMB is clear: innovation, transparency, and accountability. With these guiding principles, JAMB is poised to become a world-class examination body, providing credible and reliable services to Nigerians. JAMB’s initiatives are a model for other examination bodies to emulate, and Prof. Oloyede’s leadership is a recipe for success.
As the saying goes, “A tree is known by its fruit,” and JAMB’s achievements under Prof. Oloyede’s stewardship are a testament to his commitment to excellence. He has indeed transformed JAMB, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Prof. Oloyede’s tenure as JAMB Registrar has been marked by transformative achievements and unwavering commitment to excellence. Appointed in 2016 and reappointed for a second term in 2021, Prof. Oloyede has driven innovation, introducing Computer-Based Testing (CBT) and biometric verification to curb examination malpractice. His leadership has earned him national recognition, including prestigious awards such as the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in 2022, Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2014, and National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award in 2019.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Prof. Oloyede has received numerous honors, including the Nigeria Excellence Award in Public Service (Education Category) in 2022, Integrity Public Servant Personality of the Year (2021), and Icon of Education Transformation and Peace in 2023.
The University of Ilorin has conferred upon him the well-deserved and merited title of Emeritus Professor, acknowledging his exceptional scholarship and academic prowess. As Chairman of the Committee on Eradication of Examination Malpractice, appointed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, Prof. Oloyede is spearheading efforts to restore integrity in Nigeria’s education system. His initiatives, such as the National Tertiary Admissions’ Performance-Merit Award (NATAP-M), promote merit and best practices in admissions. With his visionary leadership, Prof. Oloyede continues to shape Nigeria’s education sector, inspiring generations to come.
His commitment to transparency and accountability has made JAMB a model for other examination bodies, earning him praise from former and present Education Ministers Adamu Adamu and Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa.
In conclusion, Prof. Oloyede’s vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence have earned him the respect and admiration of Nigerians. Kudos to Prof. Oloyede for a job well done! His roadmap to world class excellence is a beacon of hope for a brighter future in Nigeria’s education sector.
