Who is Segun Aina? 8 Key things to know about new JAMB boss

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Segun Aina as the new Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), succeeding Professor Is-haq Oloyede, whose second term will end on July 31, 2026.

The appointment was announced on Thursday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Here are eight key things to know about the incoming JAMB Registrar:

1. Professor of Computer Engineering

Professor Aina is a Professor of Computer Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. He is regarded as a systems expert with strong experience in digital infrastructure, examination systems, and institutional reform.

2. Strong Academic Background in the UK

He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Kent, United Kingdom. He also earned an MSc in Internet Computing and Network Security, and a PhD in Digital Signal Processing from Loughborough University, UK.

3. Additional Executive Training

Aina further strengthened his leadership capacity by completing the Senior Management Programme at the Lagos Business School, equipping him with public-sector and administrative management skills.

4. Early Exposure to JAMB During NYSC

The Presidency disclosed that he first worked with JAMB during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme, where he was exposed to admission processes and data-driven education systems.

5. Extensive Experience in Examination Systems

With over 15 years of professional experience, he has worked as a consultant to examination bodies including NECO, NABTEB, and various state education ministries, focusing on ICT integration and exam integrity systems.

6. Specialist in Digital Transformation

His professional expertise spans digital infrastructure, system design, and institutional reform, particularly in modernising public examination processes and improving transparency in data systems.

7. Member of Professional Bodies

He is affiliated with several professional organisations, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).

8. Set to Become JAMB’s Youngest Registrar

Professor Aina, who turns 40 in July, is one of Nigeria’s youngest professors of Computer Engineering and is set to become the youngest Registrar in JAMB’s history.

Speaking in a past interview, he emphasised balance between effort and strategy:

“I think hard work, but I think beyond hard work; I think also smart work. It is not just about working hard; you need to work smart.”

President Tinubu said the new appointee is expected to build on the reforms of outgoing Registrar Professor Oloyede while further strengthening JAMB’s digital systems and operational efficiency.