Professor Ishaq Oloyede: Honoring 70 Years Of Impact And Legacy By Aisha Zannah Mustapha
Professor Ishaq Oloyede turns 70 today, October 10, I want to take this opportunity to honor a remarkable professsor, leader, educator, and mentor. Currently the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Oloyede has profoundly influenced my life and the lives of many students across Nigeria.
Reflecting on my journey, I vividly remember the first time I met him as one of his mentees at the National Mosque. His presence was both inspiring and approachable. I was immediately struck by his exceptional courage and deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence. Although I was not his student in the classroom, the lessons I learned from him in our brief interactions were invaluable. His passion for education and commitment to service motivated me to pursue my studies with renewed determination.
During his tenure as Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Oloyede introduced groundbreaking innovations that significantly elevated the institution. He wasn’t just a figurehead; he actively engaged with students and faculty, fostering an environment where the ideas were valued. His door was always open, and he made a point of listening to our concerns, demonstrating that he truly cared about our growth and success. He is a man of great discipline, and he instilled that in his students.
At JAMB, his impact has been transformative. Prof. Oloyede has shown an unwavering commitment to financial integrity, turning a traditionally non-revenue-generating agency into a consistent contributor to the national treasury. This achievement reflects his innovative approach to leadership and management, qualities that have earned him the admiration and respect of many.
One of my most memorable experiences was attending a seminar he led on educational reform. He shared personal anecdotes about the challenges and triumphs he faced throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability. His insights inspired me and reinforced the values of integrity and dedication that I strive to embody in my own working journey.
Through his leadership, JAMB has undergone significant reforms, making the admission process more transparent and credible. By embracing technology, he has ensured that meritocracy prevails, allowing countless students to pursue their dreams based on their abilities. This commitment to fairness and excellence has been a source of inspiration for many of us.
If more Nigerian agencies were led by individuals of Prof. Oloyede’s caliber, I truly believe we would see a wave of reforms that could reshape our nation. His dedication to education and public service offers a blueprint for effective leadership, and Nigeria is in urgent need of more scholars and leaders like him.
On this momentous occasion of his 70th birthday, I join my fellow mentees, the academic community, JAMB staff, and well-wishers in celebrating Prof. Oloyede. His selfless dedication to imparting knowledge and his commitment to the propagation of the Islamic faith have left an indelible mark on my life and on countless others.
Happy birthday, Professor Ishaq Oloyede! Your legacy of excellence and integrity will continue to inspire generations to come, and I am truly grateful for the profound impact you have made in our lives and in our country. Even in the short time I’ve been fortunate to learn from you, I have gained priceless insights that I will carry with me as I strive to make a difference, just as you have.
This is a sponsored post by Aisha Zannah Mustapha (Outreach,
Future prowess Islamic Foundation)
