By Olugbenga Oludare Ojo
Professor Is-haq Olanrewaju Oloyede, OFR, is a distinguished academic, reformer, and public servant whose legacy in Nigeria’s educational landscape continues to shape minds and institutions alike. Born on October 10, 1954, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, his life has been a testament to diligence, transparency, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
*Educational Background and Career Path* Professor Oloyede began his academic journey at the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Arabic. He proceeded to earn a Master’s degree and a Doctorate in Islamic Studies from the same institution. His deep scholarly grounding laid the foundation for a career steeped in academia, leadership, and reform. He joined the University of Ilorin as an academic staff member and rose through the ranks, becoming a professor of Islamic Studies. He served in various academic and administrative capacities, including Head of Department, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic). His proven competence and administrative acumen earned him the Vice-Chancellorship in 2007. Beyond the university environment, he served as the President of the Association of African Universities (AAU) and was the Executive Secretary of the National Inter-Religious Council (NIREC). His engagement at national and international levels further reflects his versatility and ability to manage complex institutional relationships.
*Academic Prowess and Leadership at the University of Ilorin* As Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin (2007–2012), Professor Oloyede led a transformation that earned the university its reputation as the most sought-after tertiary institution in Nigeria. He championed technological innovation, expanded infrastructural development, and revitalised the university’s academic standards. One of his most notable achievements was the eradication of cultism, which had plagued the university prior to his tenure. Through strategic security reforms, student engagement, and zero tolerance for criminal behaviour, peace and order were restored to campus life. He also maintained a balanced and firm approach in industrial relations, engaging labour unions through consistent dialogue and fairness, ensuring the institution did not suffer prolonged strikes or disruptions.
*Tenure at JAMB: A Benchmark for Public Accountability* Appointed as Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in 2016, Professor Oloyede inherited a system mired in inefficiencies and low public trust. In a bold departure from the status quo, he introduced sweeping reforms that restored credibility to the examination body. Before his appointment, JAMB’s total remittance to the Federal Government over a ten-year span stood at a mere ₦50 million. In contrast, within his first year, JAMB remitted ₦7.8 billion. Over subsequent years, the figure surpassed ₦30 billion, a feat achieved through prudent financial management, transparency, and technological adoption. He introduced biometric verification and computer-based testing (CBT), significantly curbing examination malpractice and impersonation. These measures not only enhanced the integrity of JAMB exams but also reduced operational costs, making the body more efficient and respected.
*Relations with Faith-Based Groups and Allegations of Bias* A committed Muslim and Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Professor Oloyede has also faced criticism, particularly regarding perceived religious partiality. However, evidence from his leadership, especially at UNILORIN and JAMB, suggests an inclusive and merit-driven approach. While he maintained a cordial relationship with the Muslim Students’ Society (MSS), there is no credible evidence that he showed undue favour to any religious or ethnic group. His administration at the University of Ilorin and JAMB reflects a commitment to fairness, diversity, and professionalism across all religious and cultural divides. *Family Life and Personal Ethos* A man of simple tastes and deep convictions, Professor Oloyede is known to lead a modest family life. His values of honesty, discipline, and service are reflected not only in his professional dealings but in his personal interactions. He has always placed integrity above expedience and upholds a moral compass rooted in faith, equity, and public accountability.
*Recognitions and Enduring Legacy* Professor Oloyede has received numerous accolades and national honours, including Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). His legacy, however, lies not just in awards but in the systems he reformed and the example he set. His name is synonymous with accountability in public office. His work has become a benchmark for other public agencies, particularly in the realm of educational management and public sector reform.
*Conclusion* Professor Is-haq Olanrewaju Oloyede is a man whose work speaks louder than any criticism. His leadership has touched lives, changed institutions, and restored faith in public service. Whether at the helm of a university or a federal examination body, his message remains clear: excellence, transparency, and service are non-negotiable. In an age in dire need of reform-minded leadership, his legacy remains both a guidepost and a challenge to those who come after him.
Olugbenga Oludare Ojo is an ICT expert, social commentator, and advocate for institutional integrity. He writes from Abuja, Nigeria.