The Lagos State University, University of Ilorin, and Fountain University have rallied behind the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Ishaq Oloyede, in the wake of technical setbacks that marred the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The institutions, in separate statements, lauded Prof. Oloyede’s transparency, courage, and accountability after he admitted to technical and human errors that compromised the results of 379,997 candidates across five states, including Lagos and several in the South-East.
At a widely covered press briefing held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Prof. Oloyede took full responsibility for the errors, refusing to shift blame to the service providers involved.
He also announced that a retake examination would be organized for all affected candidates to preserve the integrity of the examination process.
In its statement, Lagos State University (LASU) declared its “unwavering support” for the JAMB boss, describing him as “a beacon of integrity” and commending his leadership style.
“Rather than deflect blame or issue evasive statements, Prof. Oloyede’s decision to accept full responsibility and initiate an immediate solution reflects a rare kind of leadership in Nigeria’s public space,” said the Deputy Registrar and Coordinator of LASU’s Centre for Information and Public Relations, Oluwayemisi Thomas-Onashile.
The university highlighted the tremendous reforms Prof. Oloyede has brought to JAMB since assuming office in 2016, including improved examination credibility, transparency, and increased public confidence in the board’s operations.
LASU also noted that these reforms have resulted in better-qualified candidates being admitted into its academic programmes.
The University of Ilorin, where Prof. Oloyede previously served as Vice Chancellor, echoed similar sentiments in a letter addressed to the JAMB Registrar.
Signed by its current Vice Chancellor, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), the letter praised the JAMB boss for his “truthfulness,” “strength of character,” and for setting an example for younger generations to emulate.
“While the error could have been blamed on the service provider, you chose the path of accountability and accepted responsibility. This is uncommon and deeply commendable,” the letter read.
Fountain University also joined the chorus of support, describing Prof. Oloyede as a “symbol of accountability and integrity” whose handling of the situation should serve as a case study in public service ethics and crisis management.
The backing from these academic institutions comes amid public scrutiny and criticism from some quarters over the UTME irregularities.
However, these universities argue that Prof. Oloyede’s openness and remedial actions should be seen as a strength rather than a weakness.
“We urge Nigerians to view this not as a failure, but as a chance to strengthen our examination systems,” LASU added. “Supporting leaders who own up to errors and act decisively is essential for national progress.”
Since his appointment, Prof. Oloyede has led sweeping changes at JAMB, including the introduction of Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), increased monitoring of CBT centres, and the reduction of examination malpractices. His tenure has earned him praise both locally and internationally.
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