Abuja: Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the outgoing Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), emphasized the importance of building strong institutions based on integrity, technology, and transparency to maintain public confidence in the tertiary admissions system. This statement was made during the handover ceremony to his successor, Prof. Segun Aina, where Oloyede reflected on his 10-year tenure and expressed optimism about the board’s future.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oloyede attributed the board’s achievements to five cardinal principles: staff welfare, discipline, technology, transparency, and networking. These principles have guided reforms that bolstered JAMB’s credibility. He highlighted the unprecedented attention given to staff welfare, including improved working conditions, rehabilitation and construction of office facilities, and enhanced retirement benefits.
Reflecting on his journey, Oloyede likened his role to that of a general on a military expedition, underscoring the responsibility of overseeing a process that impacts millions of Nigerians. He disclosed that over N8 billion had been committed to strengthening employees’ retirement savings, and additional benefits like a 13th-month salary, increased examination-duty incentives, and daily meals for staff were introduced under his leadership.
Despite the focus on welfare, Oloyede stressed that discipline remained a priority, with over 10 staff members facing prosecution for misconduct. He highlighted the board’s technological advancements, including the use of biometrics, digital verification, CCTV surveillance, electronic payment platforms, and remote monitoring systems, which enhanced examination security and service delivery.
Oloyede acknowledged the challenges of technological reforms but maintained that innovation and internal vigilance are vital. He emphasized transparency through published operational and financial activities, which reduced arbitrary admissions and strengthened public trust in JAMB. Collaboration with security agencies, tertiary institutions, and other stakeholders was also credited for modernizing operations and reducing malpractice.
In his farewell, Oloyede expressed confidence in the board’s culture and systems, urging stakeholders to support the new registrar. He emphasized that an institution’s success depends on its systems and values rather than individuals.
Prof. Segun Aina, in his inaugural address, pledged to uphold JAMB’s integrity and strengthen the institution through professionalism, accountability, and continuous innovation. He emphasized the importance of systems, partnerships, and a dedicated workforce in maintaining the board’s credibility. Aina committed to intensifying efforts against examination malpractice and assured stakeholders of fairness, transparency, and merit in the admission process. He highlighted the need to replace bureaucracy with service and create an environment where talent can thrive, ensuring that leadership is about fostering purpose and trust.