In a statement released by the university's Deputy Registrar and Coordinator of the Centre for Information and Public Relations, Mrs Oluwayemisi Thomas-Onashile, LASU urged Nigerians to view the challenges surrounding the 2025 UTME not as a failure of JAMB, but as an opportunity to strengthen the nation's examination systems.
Oloyede's Courage and Humility Praised
"The events surrounding the conduct and outcome of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) have rightly sparked public concern among well-meaning Nigerians," Thomas-Onashile acknowledged. "However, the candid admission of technical failures that affected the examination and Oloyede’s decision to take full responsibility for the setback are precisely why LASU expresses its unwavering support for the JAMB registrar."
The LASU spokesperson highlighted Oloyede's press conference on May 14th, where he took full responsibility for the technical glitch and human errors that led to the invalidation of results for 379,997 candidates across five states, including Lagos and states in the South-East.
"In the press conference, which is marked by courage and humility rather than deflecting blame, Prof. Oloyede took full responsibility and immediately ordered a re-examination for all the affected candidates to restore confidence in the process," Thomas-Onashile stated.
Integrity and Transformative Leadership Recognized
LASU firmly stands with Professor Oloyede, recognizing not only his courage and humility during this challenging period but also the profound integrity that has become a hallmark of his distinguished career as a public servant.
Thomas-Onashile further emphasized that Oloyede's decision to initiate an internal technical review and openly admit shortcomings reflects his exceptional leadership qualities, a rarity in the Nigerian public sector.
"In fact, since taking office in 2016, Prof. Oloyede has transformed JAMB through comprehensive reforms that have significantly improved examination credibility and transparency," she affirmed. "He has increased public confidence in the examination body, attracting plaudits from far and near."
Positive Impact on LASU Admissions
LASU has directly benefited from the enhanced processes implemented by JAMB under Oloyede's leadership, resulting in the admission of more qualified candidates to the university, according to Thomas-Onashile.
Call for National Support and Progressive Outlook
The LASU spokesperson also drew attention to Professor Oloyede's consistent commitment to excellence and integrity throughout his career, including his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin.
"We, therefore, urge Nigerians to see this development, not as a failure but as an opportunity to strengthen our examination systems further," she appealed. "We believe that supporting leaders who demonstrate accountability, rather than condemning them for isolated shortcomings, is essential for Nigeria’s progress."
Concluding the statement, Thomas-Onashile expressed hope for continued progress within the Nigerian education sector.