The Academic Excellence Initiative (AEI) has commended the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, for his admission of technical errors that affected the performance of some candidates in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
AEI, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting academic excellence among Nigerian youth, described Prof. Oloyede’s transparency as a rare act of integrity. In a statement signed by its Assistant Director of Publicity, Data, and Research, Engr. Wasiu Balogun, the organization also expressed deep empathy for all affected candidates and their families.
According to AEI, the JAMB registrar’s acknowledgment of the issue demonstrates a transparent and accountable leadership style worthy of commendation.
Recall that during a press conference held on May 14, 2025, Prof. Oloyede revealed that server update issues at 157 examination centres negatively impacted 206,610 candidates in Lagos and 173,387 candidates in the Owerri zone.
While JAMB has taken responsibility for the technical glitches, AEI emphasized that human and operational errors may have also contributed to the problem. The organization therefore called for a comprehensive review that considers both systemic and administrative factors.
“We also appeal to the public to respond constructively,” AEI said. “While frustrations are understandable, calls for the resignation of the JAMB Registrar should be weighed against his notable achievements in reforming examination processes. Constructive criticism should include viable alternatives that can match or surpass his track record of integrity and institutional progress.”
In addition to the measures proposed by JAMB, AEI recommended the following:
1. Additional Investment in ICT Infrastructure: Increased government funding to boost digital readiness in secondary schools.
2. Independent Oversight Participation: Involvement of credible, non-profit organizations like AEI in UTME monitoring for enhanced transparency and accountability.
3. Rotational Functional Leadership: Implementation of rotational leadership at regional and departmental levels to prevent collusion and improve oversight.
AEI reaffirmed its commitment to supporting reforms that ensure fair and efficient conduct of public examinations in Nigeria.
