Lagos, Jamb partner to improve access to higher education, address CBT centre shortage

Lagos State government and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) have underscored the need for a collaboration aimed at improving educational infrastructure, creating more opportunities for students, and ensuring a smoother and more efficient examination process in Lagos State.

Speaking during a visit by JAMB Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, both expressed their mutual commitment to advancing education in Lagos and beyond, with the shared goal of creating an environment where young people can thrive and fulfill their academic potential.

Commenting during the visit, Sanwo-Olu commended Oloyede for his outstanding leadership and efforts in transforming the body, which has played a pivotal role in the admissions process for thousands of Nigerian students. Sanwo-Olu praised Oloyede’s exceptional contributions to the advancement of education in Nigeria.

The governor noted that Oloyede, whom he described as a “Lagos man” with an outstanding track record, had turned JAMB around in a short time, bringing the agency into new heights of excellence. The governor expressed deep admiration for the integrity, dedication, and professionalism displayed by Oloyede and his team in managing the board, emphasising that their leadership had not only transformed JAMB but had set a remarkable example for others to follow.

“We are proud of what you are doing, Prof. Oloyede, and we are proud of where you’ve taken this Board. Your name stands tall, and we, from Lagos, are happy to recognise you for your excellence. It’s rare to find such an individual who, once entrusted with responsibility, rises to the occasion and serves with uncommon purpose,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He also acknowledged the role played by the entire JAMB Board, praising them for their collective efforts in contributing to the success of the organisation. “Like the late MKO Abiola once said, you cannot clap with one hand. It is the support of your colleagues and the team that has allowed you to excel,” he added.

The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the development of education, both at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. He shared with the gathering the state’s focus on creating a more efficient educational system, mentioning the restructuring of the Lagos State Education Districts, which has seen the establishment of six districts to ensure better management of secondary schools.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted that the state’s education policies are aimed at professionalising the sector, including promoting the career progression of teachers through the creation of the Teachers’ Merit Award, which rewards outstanding educators with new vehicles, training, and financial support.

The governor disclosed that though the award was not held last year but it would be held this year as the state wants to continually motivate teachers and stakeholders in the education sector to give their best. He stressed the importance of recognizing the contributions of teachers and improving the quality of education to ensure a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth.

He also expressed pride in the accomplishments of Lagos State, which has grown to host three universities in a short time, a testament to the state’s educational progress. “As a government, we are intentional in creating more opportunities and investing in education. We want to continue showing that Lagos is the center of excellence,” the governor added.

Earlier, Professor Oloyede, in his remarks, thanked Sanwo-Olu for his warm reception and support for the work being done by JAMB. He elaborated on the ongoing efforts of JAMB to ensure that qualified candidates gain access to tertiary education through its efficient examinations.

Oloyede explained that JAMB’s scope has expanded significantly over the years, with the Board now overseeing over 1,400 higher institutions, not just universities but polytechnics and colleges of education across Nigeria. He commended Lagos for its strong contribution to the number of candidates sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), pointing out that 15 per cent of all UTME candidates come from Lagos State, yet the state has fewer than 10 per cent of the available Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres in the country.

Highlighting the disparity, Oloyede urged the Lagos State government to consider providing land to enable JAMB to construct additional CBT centres, especially in areas like Ojo, Ikorodu, Mile 12, and Festac. He explained that this will help ease the pressure on the few available centers in the state and ensure a more efficient examination process for students.

Oloyede also mentioned that JAMB board bought a five-floor building in Ogba, Lagos, to serve as a regional office and help resolve some of the challenges the Board faces in the state.

Oloyede further emphasised that Lagos State, given its population and importance in the education sector, deserves more infrastructure support from both the state and federal governments to improve the capacity for conducting examinations and managing educational resources.

“In other states, we have been able to build mega CBT centrers with the support of state governments. I believe Lagos deserves at least double of what other states have received due to the high number of candidates coming from here,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu assured Oloyede and JAMB that the state government would prioritize the provision of land for new CBT centres, as well as explore additional ways to support the Board in its mission.

He said that the state government remains fully committed to the success of JAMB’s operations in Lagos, ensuring that Lagos students continue to receive the best opportunities for higher education.

Sanwo-Olu also promised that his administration would provide the necessary support to JAMB’s zonal office in Lagos, helping to streamline the examination process for the benefit of the state’s students.

He acknowledged that the partnership between the Lagos State Government and JAMB would continue to foster progress and contribute to the growth of education in the region.

Sanwo-Olu reiterated his government’s long-standing commitment to education, pledging to work together with JAMB and other stakeholders to ensure that Lagos remains at the forefront of educational development in Nigeria.