JAMB Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede has described the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) as largely successful, with minimal disruptions across Nigeria’s nearly 1,000 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres. Speaking during a monitoring visit to the University of Ibadan centre in Oyo State, Oloyede said only about 16 centres nationwide reported issues, mostly related to power supply and minor technical faults.
Over 1.7 million candidates have been examined within three days, despite initial concerns. The registrar credited the smooth process to strong collaboration with stakeholders, including vice-chancellors, rectors, and other academic officials serving as proctors.
Addressing reports of candidate kidnappings, Oloyede cautioned against unverified claims, urging focus on the victims’ safe return rather than linking incidents directly to JAMB without evidence.
On early arrival times, he clarified that examinations do not start at 6:30 a.m., but candidates must arrive early for accreditation. The board recently adjusted the schedule from 8 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. in response to feedback, though this led to longer waiting periods for some.
Oloyede warned against misconceptions about UTME’s role in admissions, stressing it is one of several criteria alongside O’Level requirements. He also cautioned candidates and parents against engaging with fraudsters offering “exam runs” or score manipulation, revealing that several suspects are already facing prosecution for exam malpractices. In one case, a suspect continued defrauding parents while in custody by promising to upgrade scores.
JAMB has intensified efforts to track and prosecute such individuals, urging the public to report fraudulent social media platforms. The registrar reaffirmed the board’s commitment to maintaining examination integrity and ensuring credible admissions into tertiary institutions.
