By Esther Onyegbula

In a decisive move expected to strengthen Nigeria’s teaching standards and professional development, the federal government has appointed Dr. Ronke Soyombo as the new Registrar and Chief Executive of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN). Her appointment was officially confirmed today, following approval by the Federal Ministry of Education.

Dr. Soyombo, an educationist with over 30 years of experience across the UK and Nigeria, brings a formidable track record in educational administration, quality assurance, and teacher capacity development. Her appointment comes at a critical time as the TRCN continues to push for higher certification and regulatory compliance across the nation’s teaching workforce.

A two-term Special Adviser on Education to the Ogun State Government, Dr. Soyombo is best known for pioneering the Ogun Digi Class during the COVID-19 pandemic, which enabled digital learning continuity for thousands of students and teachers. Her work in harmonizing operations among Ogun’s education agencies and launching the “Adopt-a-School” initiative to draw private investment into public education infrastructure earned the state accolades, including national recognition for excellence in education.

Between 2019 and 2021, she served as the Acting Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology in Ogun State, where she led efforts to recruit over 1,500 teachers to address classroom shortages. She also oversaw strategic leadership for more than 26,000 teachers and educational administrators.

Nationally, Dr. Soyombo has been a sought-after consultant, delivering training in educational management, safeguarding, and inclusive learning practices across Lagos, Edo, Osun, and other states. Her initiatives have consistently raised internal and external examination outcomes, improved teacher evaluations, and strengthened protections for vulnerable learners.

Reacting to her appointment, education stakeholders have praised the federal government’s decision. “This is a timely and strategic move. Dr. Soyombo has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership and results-driven reform,” said a senior official in the Federal Ministry of Education who asked not to be named.

Beyond her administrative experience, Dr. Soyombo currently serves as the National Director of the APC Professional Women Council, where she has championed strategic leadership development for women professionals across Nigeria and in the diaspora.

As Registrar of TRCN, she will be tasked with upholding teaching standards, expanding professional development programs, and ensuring that all teachers in Nigeria meet the minimum qualifications for classroom practice.

Her appointment marks a significant step in ongoing efforts to professionalize teaching in Nigeria and restore public confidence in the country’s educational system.