The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has commended the outgoing Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, for what it described as his transformative 10-year tenure.

It noted that his tenure repositioned the examination body from an institution facing declining public confidence to one now widely respected for its credibility, efficiency, and integrity.

Oloyede, who was first appointed in 2016 and reappointed for a second term in 2021, will step down as JAMB Registrar on July 31, when Prof. Segun Aina, who was announced as the new registrar by President Bola Tinubu, will take over.

Speaking yesterday during a final media parley in Oloyede’shonour, NGE President, Eze Anaba, commended the outgoing registrar for driving excellence and restoring public confidence in the examination body, noting that his achievements speak to the power of competence, integrity and transparency.

According to him, Oloyede’s track record over the past decade has proven that Nigeria still has hope of overcoming the challenges confronting the nation if credible and genuine leaders are entrusted with positions of authority.

Anaba further commended Oloyede for the cordial relationship he built with the media, noting that the media, despite often being feared and demonised, could hold leaders accountable while also building partnerships with individuals who demonstrate credibility and good leadership.

Going forward, he urged the incoming registrar to consolidate on the legacies of his predecessor, noting that what Oloyede did went beyond talent and “shows that people can get into public office, succeed and leave an impact.”

On his part, Oloyede expressed deep appreciation to the media for their constructive reportage, which he said put his administration on its toes to do the extraordinary.

“You played the role of both the friends and the enemy,” he said. “All the criticism that you hit us with is for our growth. And you know, we would always tell you, this is our side of the story. Your criticisms have been fantastic and very helpful.”

Oloyede further urged media executives to continue the same level of support for the incoming registrar, while assuring the incoming head of the body of his continued support, regardless of speculations or criticisms that may arise.

In the meantime, he used the opportunity to disabuse people’s minds about introducing his predecessor to his networks, clarifying that it is not a veiled third term but what is right to give him a firm start.

Meanwhile, the incoming Registrar, Prof. Aina, has vowed to institutionalise the reforms and achievements recorded under Oloyede.

He expressed gratitude for his appointment, describing the responsibility as a national duty far greater than any individual’s.

He also appealed to the media executives for support through candid and constructive reporting.