7 Key Facts About Professor Segun Aina, Tinubu’s New JAMB Registrar

Professor Segun Aina

7 Key Facts About Professor Segun Aina, Tinubu’s New JAMB Registrar

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Segun Aina as the new Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), bringing a fresh wave of expectations for Nigeria’s tertiary admissions system.

Aina will succeed Professor Is-haq Oloyede, whose second and final tenure as JAMB registrar ends on July 31, 2026.

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

The incoming registrar, a Professor of Computer Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading experts in digital examination systems, education technology, and ICT-driven institutional reforms.

UK-Trained Professor With Strong Technology Background

Professor Aina studied in the United Kingdom, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Kent.

He later obtained a Master’s degree in Internet Computing and Network Security as well as a PhD in Digital Signal Processing from Loughborough University.

He also attended the Senior Management Programme at Lagos Business School, strengthening his leadership and administrative capacity.

Expert in Artificial Intelligence and Digital Systems

The new JAMB Registrar specialises in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Digital Signal Processing, Robotics, Data Science, and Human-Computer Interaction.

At OAU, he teaches courses including Computer Architecture, Digital Signal Processing Systems, and Real-Time Systems.

His academic profile has earned him recognition within Nigeria’s engineering and technology community.

Experience With Examination Bodies and Education Reforms

Before his appointment, Aina worked with several examination agencies and educational institutions across Nigeria.

He reportedly consulted for the National Examinations Council (NECO), the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), and some state ministries of education.

His expertise covers examination integrity, digital transition, ICT infrastructure, data management, and operational reforms.

According to information released by the Presidency, Aina’s relationship with JAMB dates back to his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme, where he gained early exposure to national admissions and examination processes.

One of Nigeria’s Youngest Professors

Professor Aina became a Professor of Computer Engineering at the age of 39, making him one of the youngest professors in Nigeria in the field of engineering and technology.

He is expected to become the youngest Registrar in JAMB’s history when he officially assumes office.

Speaking after his promotion to professor, Aina attributed his success to both hard work and smart work.

“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,” he said.

Technology Entrepreneur and Policy Contributor

Beyond academics, Aina is also involved in technology entrepreneurship and institutional development.

In 2010, he co-founded Fluid Click Solutions Ltd, an IT services and engineering project management company.

He has also participated in consultancy projects involving public institutions and government agencies, including assignments linked to the Office of the Vice President.

Member of Top Professional Bodies

The incoming registrar belongs to several professional organisations, including:

Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN)
Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE)
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
Nigerian Computer Society (NCS)

Expectations Ahead of JAMB Leadership Transition

Aina’s appointment comes at a critical time for JAMB, as stakeholders expect further improvements in digital examination systems, transparency, and operational efficiency.

His predecessor, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, is widely credited with reforming the examination body, increasing accountability, and boosting remittances to the federal government since assuming office in 2016.

Education stakeholders are now watching closely to see how the incoming registrar will consolidate on those reforms while addressing emerging challenges in Nigeria’s tertiary admissions process.