As the registration date for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) approaches, anxiety and misinformation have taken hold among prospective candidates, parents, and guardians. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) had earlier announced that registration for the 2025 UTME would commence in January, but a specific date was not disclosed until recently. This delay has inadvertently created a window for online fraudsters to exploit unsuspecting candidates.
Confusion Over Registration Start Date
On December 30, 2024, JAMB indicated that registration would begin in January 2025, raising the hopes of candidates and parents. However, as January progressed without an official announcement, speculation and misinformation spread rapidly, leading many to believe that registration would commence on January 15, 2025.
This confusion prompted many candidates and their parents to visit Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres prematurely. Some were lucky to receive proper guidance, but others fell victim to fraudsters who took advantage of the situation.
Fraudulent Activities Targeting Candidates
Several cases of fraud and theft were reported at CBT centres across the country, where naive candidates were misled by false information circulating online.
One victim, Kambili Ezea, a candidate from New Karu, Nasarawa State, lost her phone, National Identification Number (NIN) card, and other valuables to a scammer at a CBT centre. “My concern now is how to recover my line, get a new phone, and replace my lost documents, especially my NIN card, which is crucial for registration,” she lamented.
Similarly, Yusurat Abdullahi, who visited the JAMB CBT Centre in Bwari, Abuja, based on false information, expressed regret after wasting money and time: “I was sad that I wasted money on transportation. My brother had warned me registration hadn’t started, but I insisted he was wrong.”
Parents’ Concerns Over Misinformation
Parents also expressed concerns over the delay and the spread of misinformation. Bulus Kato, a parent in Abuja, shared how he accompanied his son to a CBT centre after the boy insisted that registration had started. “I had already told him the information was false, but he insisted. Thankfully, I went with him, or he might have fallen victim to fraudsters,” Kato said.
In Lagos, Mrs. Agnes Oji recounted a similar experience. She trusted her son’s claim that registration had started and went to a CBT centre, only to find out it was false. “Many parents and candidates were there, all misled by the same false information,” she said.
JAMB’s Deliberate Delay
Sources within JAMB revealed that the delay in announcing the registration date was deliberate. The Board needed additional time to finalize upgrades to its systems to ensure a seamless registration and examination process.
“JAMB is expecting massive registration this year,” a source said. “The Board conducted a critical review of its 2024 operations and integrated those insights into its planning for 2025. We have generated sufficient examination items, completed the accreditation of CBT centres, and implemented measures to address challenges encountered in previous exams.”
JAMB has now confirmed that registration for the 2025 UTME will commence on January 31, 2025, and end on March 5, 2025.
Early Preparation and Warnings to Candidates
To avoid delays, JAMB has advised candidates to begin preparing early by creating their profiles ahead of registration. Candidates should send a text message with their NIN to 55019 or 66019 to generate their profile codes, a necessary step for registration.
In addition, JAMB has reiterated its warning against the use of henna, commonly known as “Laali” or “Lale,” on fingers. The use of henna can interfere with biometric verification, which is mandatory for both registration and examination entry.
“Candidates are advised to keep their fingers free of any markings or chemicals. Those who attempt to remove henna with harsh chemicals risk damaging the whorls on their fingers, making verification extremely difficult,” JAMB warned.
Biometric verification is crucial for entry into the examination hall, and candidates who fail this process will not be allowed to sit for the exam.
The Role of CBT Centres
Accredited CBT centres remain vital in guiding candidates and ensuring a seamless registration process. While some centres provided accurate information to candidates, others became hotspots for fraudsters.
To prevent further exploitation, JAMB has urged candidates to verify information through official channels, such as its website and social media platforms, before visiting CBT centres.
What Candidates Should Know About 2025 UTME
Here are key details to guide prospective candidates:
- Registration Dates: January 31, 2025 – March 5, 2025
- Mock Examination: February 23, 2025
- UTME Main Examination: March 8, 2025
- Direct Entry Registration: March 10, 2025 – April 7, 2025
- NIN Requirement: Candidates must have their National Identification Number (NIN) to register.
JAMB has also introduced a trial-testing mock examination for underage candidates below the age of 16. This initiative allows younger students to familiarize themselves with the Computer-Based Test (CBT) format without seeking admission.
Preventing Fraud and Staying Informed
To avoid falling victim to fraud, candidates are advised to:
- Follow updates on JAMB’s official website and verified social media accounts.
- Avoid unofficial sources or agents promising shortcuts.
- Only visit accredited CBT centres for registration.
- Be cautious of online misinformation and verify all claims before acting.
Conclusion
While the delay in announcing the 2025 UTME registration date caused anxiety and confusion, JAMB has reassured candidates and stakeholders that preparations are in place for a seamless process. With registration set to begin on January 31, 2025, candidates are encouraged to prepare early, stay informed, and avoid falling prey to fraudsters exploiting the situation.
By adhering to JAMB’s guidelines and using official channels for information, candidates can look forward to a smooth registration and examination experience in 2025.