Oloyede’s JAMB Legacy: Sweeping Reforms, Tough Tests and Lasting Impact

Professor Ishaq Oloyede is set to conclude his decade-long tenure as Registrar of Nigeria's Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) on July 31, leaving behind a legacy of profound transformation within the institution. His administration has been characterized by sweeping reforms, technology-driven innovation, and a strong emphasis on financial transparency, significantly restoring public confidence in the university admissions system.

Before Oloyede assumed office in August 2016, JAMB was plagued by widespread issues including examination malpractice, inefficient admissions processes, and poor financial accountability. It was largely viewed merely as an examination body, neglecting its broader role in coordinating tertiary admissions. However, under his leadership, the board began to change this narrative. Notably, JAMB remitted over N50 billion in operating surplus to the federal government during his tenure.

A key achievement was strengthening the integrity of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Through expanded biometric verification, stricter monitoring of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers, and increased deployment of technology, JAMB drastically reduced opportunities for impersonation and malpractice. The board also enhanced the use of the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), leading to more transparent admissions and curbing the influence of unofficial admission lists.

Oloyede's tenure also saw remarkable financial performance. JAMB, which previously remitted modest sums, began declaring substantial surpluses by plugging revenue leakages and improving operational efficiency. Billions of naira were remitted to the federal government, a stark contrast to previous years.

Despite these successes, Oloyede's administration was not without its challenges. Significant setbacks included technical glitches during the 2025 UTME and various policy controversies that drew intense public scrutiny. Nevertheless, Oloyede is recognized as one of Nigeria's most influential education reformers, having fundamentally reshaped JAMB.