Ishaq Oloyede at 70: A legacy of future possibilities

As Professor Ishaq Olanrewaju Oloyede marked his 70th birthday yesterday , it is fitting to reflect on his remarkable contributions to the education sector in Nigeria and his pivotal role as the Registrar of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Since assuming office in 2016, Oloyede has orchestrated a profound transformation within JAMB, redefining the landscape of university admissions in Nigeria.

Prior to his tenure, JAMB was often criticised for inefficiencies, administrative bottlenecks, and a lack of transparency. The examination process was fraught with irregularities, leaving many students and parents frustrated.

Oloyede stepped into this tumultuous environment with a vision for reform and modernisation. His commitment to integrity and efficiency has led to significant changes, including the introduction of digital examination systems and a more transparent registration process.

Under Oloyede’s stewardship, JAMB has implemented initiatives such as the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), which has streamlined the admission process, ensuring that candidates are matched to their preferred institutions based on merit and available spaces. This has not only enhanced the credibility of JAMB but has also restored public confidence in the examination body. Furthermore, his emphasis on technology has reduced instances of examination malpractice, making the process fairer for all candidates.

As the Secretary General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Oloyede has also played a vital role in promoting education within the Islamic community. His leadership has emphasised the importance of integrating modern educational practices with Islamic teachings, fostering an environment where religious and academic growth go hand in hand. This dual role exemplifies his commitment to not just educational reform but also the socio-cultural development of Nigeria’s diverse populace

At 70, Oloyede stands at a crossroads where his wealth of experience can be harnessed to address ongoing challenges in both JAMB and the NSCIA. There are several areas where he can further elevate his impact.

While strides have been made in digitising processes at JAMB, there remains a need for greater accessibility, particularly for candidates in rural areas. Initiatives that provide resources and support for these students could enhance accisibility and help bridge the gap. This can be achieved through community engagement because strengthening partnerships with community organisations can enhance outreach efforts, ensuring that under represented groups have the resources and knowledge to navigate the admissions process effectively.

Again, as technology continues to evolve, JAMB must keep pace; and Oloyede can champion further advancements, such as the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to refine the admissions process and personalise support for candidates.

Given that there is a growing need for vocational education in Nigeria. Oloyede should continue with his advocacy for a more holistic approach to education that includes vocational training and hands-on experrience as a viable path for students, thereby expanding their opportunities and reducing unemployment.

Furthermore, as the Secretary General of the NSCIA, Oloyede has the unique opportunity to foster interfaith dialogue that can bridge divides within the diverse religious landscape of Nigeria. This initiative could promote mutual understanding and cooperation in educational pursuits.

Oloyede OFR, NPOM, FNAL is a Professor of Islamics and a Fellow of the Islamic Academy of Cambridge, United Kingdom; Fellow, Academy of Entrepreneurship; Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Management; Fellow, Institute of Arabic and Islamic Studies and Fellow, Association of Islamic Religious Studies and a Fellow, Nigerian Academic of Letters.  He won the Arab League Prize for Best Final Year Certificate Student in Islamic Studies from the University of Ibadan in 1977.
He won Federal Government Undergraduate Merit Award (University of Ilorin) in 1981 and many other laurels both home and abroad.  He has a first class degree in Arabic Language and Literature, a Masters degree in Islamic Studies and a Ph.D in Islamic jurisprudence.  He also holds a Post-Graduate Diploma in Education from University of Ilorin.

He has served on the board of many reputable university and academic organisations.  He was the Chairman, Committee of Directors of Academic Planning in Nigerian Universities, 2002 to 2004; he was the President, Association of African Universities (AAU), 2004 to 2011.

He served on the Board of Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), 2010 to 2012 and International Association of Universities (IAU), 2008 to 2012.  He is an International Advisory Board member of International Network for Higher Education in Africa (INHEA).  He was also a Board member of Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC).

He was appointed Co-Secretary of the National Political Reform Conference by President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2006 and also a member of the 2014 National Political Conference.  Also in 2006, he was appointed a Consultant for the reorganisation of the National Universities Commission (NUC) in Nigeria.

He was the initiator and honorary Secretary General of All West African Universities (AWAU).  He was the Executive Secretary and National Coordinator of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) from 2007 to 2018 and currently the Secretary General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.

Professor Oloyede served as the Vice-Chancellor, University of Ilorin, from October, 2007 to October 15, 2012 and Chairman, Association of Vice-Chancellors of Nigeria Universities as well as the Committee of Vice-Chancellors (CVC) from 2011 to 2012. 

Prof. Oloyede during his five-year administration as Vice-Chancellor turned around the fortunes of the University of Ilorin and its ratings among global Universities. 

Prof. Oloyede assumed duty as the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) on the 9th of August, 2016 and within few years of his assumption, revamped the entire operation of the Board. 

The Board which had remitted to the Federal Government coffers, a cumulative sum of less than N50m between 1978 and 2016, remitted N7.8b in 2017 and has between 2017 to date, paid operating surplus of N30.3b to the Federal Government-CRF, excluding special allowance to staff, grants to corporate bodies and institutions which amount to above N5billion in addition to over N12billion capital expenditure for the massive physical and human development being undertaken from the Internal Generated Revenue (IGR) of the Board. 

The outstanding feat made the Federal Government to reduce the application fee into tertiary institution by 30 per cent. In September 2023, TAF Africa honoured him for his outstanding commitment to the education of people with disabilities in Nigeria. Prof. Is-haq Olanrewaju Oloyede is married with four adult-children and eleven grandchildren.

Professor Ishaq Oloyede’s tenure at JAMB and his leadership in the NSCIA are testaments to his dedication to education and community service. At 70, his wealth of experience and visionary leadership can still shape the future of education and foster a more inclusive society in Nigeria.

So, as he celebrates this milestone, it is essential to recognise both his past achievements and the potential for further contributions because the journey continues and the possibilities are as expansive as ever.
Professor Ogwezzy-Ndisika wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos.