LAGOS, May 16, 2025 — The Lagos State University (LASU) has commended the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Ishaq Oloyede, for taking full responsibility over the technical hitches that marred the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), describing his response as a rare display of integrity in public office.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the institution’s Deputy Registrar and Coordinator of the Centre for Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Thomas-Onashile, the university urged Nigerians to rally in support of the embattled JAMB boss, noting that his candid admission and corrective actions reflect exceptional leadership.

“The events surrounding the conduct and outcome of the 2025 UTME have rightly sparked public concern,” the statement read. “However, the candid admission of technical failures and Oloyede’s decision to take full responsibility are precisely why LASU expresses its unwavering support for the JAMB registrar.”

Oloyede had, during a press briefing on May 14, acknowledged a server patching error and human oversight that affected nearly 380,000 candidates across Lagos and five South-East states, leading to the invalidation of their results. He also announced that the affected candidates would retake the examination.

“Rather than deflect blame, he chose humility and courage. That press conference marked a defining moment—he accepted responsibility and ordered a prompt re-examination for affected candidates. This is leadership at its finest,” Thomas-Onashile said.

The university praised Oloyede’s record of reform since assuming office in 2016, noting that JAMB had become more credible and transparent under his stewardship. LASU also acknowledged the improvements in candidate quality and admission standards resulting from the enhanced processes at JAMB.

“Since his tenure began, JAMB has experienced transformation in transparency and operational efficiency. LASU has benefited from the improved processes, receiving better-qualified students through a credible admission framework,” the statement added.

Describing Oloyede as a man of “deep character and integrity,” LASU called on Nigerians to embrace this episode as an opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s examination systems, rather than vilify a leader who has consistently demonstrated accountability.

“Support for leaders who admit shortcomings and correct them is crucial for our national progress. We stand solidly with Prof. Oloyede and urge others to do the same,” the statement concluded.