By Enyichukwu Enemanna
It’s a new boost for youth inclusion in leadership in Nigeria as the country’s President, President Bola Tinubu has announced the appointment of a 39-year-old Professor of Computer Engineering as the new Registrar of Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
His appointment is contained in a statement on Thursday signed by Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga who added that the new Registrar wields expertise in digital infrastructure, national examination systems and institutional reforms.
He takes over from Professor Ishaq Oloyede, whose tenure expires on July 31, 2026.
Despite its vibrant youth population, Nigeria struggles with poor youth representation in governance across board. Aina’s appointment is largely viewed as a win for the youth community that has long clamoured for a space in leadership.
“Professor Aina, who will be 40 in July, is a distinguished academic and systems expert with extensive experience in national examination systems, digital infrastructure, and public-sector institutional reform.
“He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Kent, an MSc in Internet Computing and Network Security, and a PhD in Digital Signal Processing, both from Loughborough University, United Kingdom. He has also completed the Senior Management Programme at Lagos Business School,” the statement read.
The statement added that Aina has over 15 years of professional experience advising federal and state governments on digital transition, institutional reforms and system design.
The Presidency says the appointee is one of Nigeria’s youngest professors in Computer Engineering, noting that he would become the youngest registrar in JAMB’s history.
He had previously worked as a consultant to examination bodies, including the National Examinations Council and the National Business and Technical Examinations Board on ICT systems and examination integrity, the statement added.
“He is also a member of professional organisations, including the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the Institution of Engineering and Technology,” it stated further.
Tinubu expressed confidence that the new Registrar would build on the achievements recorded under Oloyede’s administration.
“President Tinubu expects Professor Aina to bring to bear his vast experience, knowledge and practical insight into the operations of the Board, to take the critical educational organisation beyond the laudable heights achieved by his predecessor,” the statement concluded.
