Meet Segun Aina, the incoming 39-yr-old  JAMB registrar

At just 39, Segun Aina is stepping into one of Nigeria’s most closely watched education leadership roles as the new registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

His appointment signals a generational shift at the examination body, sparking interest in the background, experience and vision of the man expected to oversee millions of candidates seeking admission into tertiary institutions across the country.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday announced the appointment of Segun Aina as the new registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), succeeding Is-haq Oloyede, whose second term will expire on July 31, 2026.

Aina is a renowned computer engineering professor at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, and is popular for his expertise in examination systems, digital infrastructure, and institutional reforms.

The incoming JAMB registrar studied in the United Kingdom, where he obtained a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Kent.

After that he obtained an MSc in Internet Computing and Network Security, as well as a PhD in Digital Signal Processing from Loughborough University.

The academic also attended the Senior Management Programme at Lagos Business School.

According to Bayo Onanuga, special assistant to President Tinubu on information and strategy, who announced the appointment, Aina’s relationship with JAMB began during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme, where he gained early experience in national admissions processes and data management systems.

The exposure reportedly influenced his later work in examination reforms and systems optimisation.

With more than 15 years of post-graduation experience, the university don has worked with major examination bodies, including the National Examinations Council (NECO), the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), and several state ministries of education.

Aina’s proficiency covers ICT systems, examination integrity, digital transition, and operational reforms.

All things being equal, Aina, who turns 40 in July, is set to become Nigeria’s youngest registrar in the history of JAMB. Besides, he was previously recognised as one of Nigeria’s youngest professors of Computer Engineering.

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

The faculty member, speaking after his promotion as a professor, 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. You know, it is not just about working hard; you need to work smart,” he said.

As Segun Aina prepares to assume office, expectations are already mounting over how the 39-year-old administrator will shape the future of JAMB and Nigeria’s tertiary admissions system.

With growing demands for transparency, innovation and improved examination processes, his leadership will likely be closely watched by students, parents and education stakeholders alike.

Whether he builds on existing reforms or introduces a fresh direction, Aina’s tenure could mark the beginning of a new phase for one of the country’s most influential education institutions.