As the countdown to the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) continues, several key developments have shaped the latest JAMB news for March 5, 2025. From infrastructure improvements aimed at easing exam preparations to legal battles involving former JAMB officials, these updates highlight the latest trends in Nigeria’s education sector.
A significant milestone was reached with the unveiling of a state-of-the-art 250-seater CBT centre in Delta State, while controversy brews over school closures for Ramadan in three northern states, raising concerns about its impact on students preparing for JAMB and NECO exams. Meanwhile, a former JAMB deputy director faces the risk of bail revocation, underscoring the judiciary’s commitment to accountability. These stories provide a critical look at the developments shaping education in Nigeria.
Tompolo’s Tantita Unveils 250-Seater JAMB CBT Centre in Delta State
Ogulagha, Delta State – March 4, 2025 – In a bid to improve educational infrastructure in riverine communities, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), a company linked to former Niger Delta militant leader High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has unveiled a state-of-the-art 250-seater Computer-Based Test (CBT) centre in the Ogulagha Kingdom, Delta State.
The new JAMB-accredited CBT centre, which was officially inaugurated this week, is fully equipped with 250 brand-new HP laptops and Starlink internet services, ensuring seamless digital connectivity for students preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and other computer-based exams.
Boosting Educational Access in Riverine Communities
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, representatives of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) emphasized that the initiative is part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, aimed at empowering students in underserved riverine areas.
“The establishment of this CBT centre is a step toward bridging the digital divide and ensuring that students in coastal communities have equal access to modern educational tools,” a TSSNL spokesperson stated.
The centre is expected to serve as a hub for UTME preparation, providing candidates with an accessible and high-tech environment to practice and take their examinations.
A Milestone for Delta State Education
The unveiling of the Tantita JAMB CBT Centre marks a significant milestone in Delta State’s education sector, as it provides students with access to quality internet service and modern learning facilities that were previously unavailable in the region.
Local leaders and education stakeholders have praised Tompolo and Tantita Security Services for their commitment to educational development, urging other corporate organizations to invest in similar initiatives to uplift Nigeria’s educational system.
As the 2025 JAMB UTME approaches, the new CBT centre is expected to ease the challenges faced by students in riverine communities, ensuring they have a conducive and well-equipped venue to write their exams.
Court Threatens to Revoke Sacked JAMB Deputy Director’s Bail
Abuja, Nigeria – March 4, 2025 – A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Apo has issued a stern warning to a former Deputy Director of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), threatening to revoke his bail over alleged violations of his bail conditions.
Presiding over the case, Justice H. A. Musa cautioned the defendant against any attempt to flout the terms of his release, emphasizing that failure to comply with the court’s directives could lead to immediate revocation of bail. The former JAMB official, whose name has not been disclosed, was previously granted bail following charges related to misconduct during his tenure.
Court Reviews Bail Conditions Amid Compliance Concerns
The warning came as the court reviewed the defendant’s compliance with bail conditions. Prosecutors alleged that the sacked deputy director had failed to meet some of the stipulated requirements, prompting the judge to reconsider his bail status.
Justice Musa underscored the seriousness of the charges against the defendant and maintained that the court would not tolerate any attempts to undermine the legal process. He further directed that the accused must strictly adhere to all conditions or risk being taken back into custody.
Judiciary Reaffirms Commitment to Accountability
The case highlights the judiciary’s commitment to accountability and upholding the rule of law, particularly in cases involving public officials. Legal analysts note that the court’s firm stance reflects its zero-tolerance policy for bail violations, ensuring that justice is neither delayed nor obstructed.
The next hearing has been scheduled to assess the defendant’s compliance with the bail conditions and determine any further legal actions.
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Three Northern States Close Schools for Ramadan Amid NECO, JAMB Registrations
Abuja, Nigeria – March 4, 2025 – The governments of Kebbi, Bauchi, and Kano States have announced the closure of all public and private schools during the Ramadan fasting period, a decision that has sparked concerns among education stakeholders. The closure coincides with ongoing registrations for national examinations, including the National Examination Council (NECO) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) UTME, raising fears that it could disrupt students’ academic preparation.
According to state officials, the decision aligns with cultural and religious practices, ensuring that students and staff can fully observe the holy month without the pressures of academic activities. However, critics, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), have described the move as counterproductive, arguing that it could further widen the educational gap in northern Nigeria, a region already grappling with high numbers of out-of-school children.
Government Justifies School Closures
Officials from the Kebbi, Bauchi, and Kano State education ministries have defended the decision, stating that the school closures were factored into the academic calendar and will not disrupt students’ progress. Kebbi State Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, emphasized that the break would last only two weeks, ensuring minimal impact on learning. Similarly, Bauchi State Commissioner for Education, Lawal Zayyam, confirmed that school owners, religious leaders, and community stakeholders were consulted before implementing the measure.
However, concerns persist, especially regarding the timing of the closure in relation to JAMB and NECO registrations and preparation. Education stakeholders fear that the break could affect students’ readiness for upcoming national exams, given that school closure means limited access to learning resources and teachers’ guidance.
CAN Rejects the Decision, Calls for Immediate Reversal
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly opposed the policy, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent and could undermine educational progress in the North. CAN President Daniel Okoh argued that similar school closures do not occur in predominantly Muslim countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where education continues during Ramadan with adjustments to accommodate fasting students.
“We believe education should not be sacrificed for religious observances. While we respect Ramadan, we urge state governments to seek a more inclusive approach that allows students to continue learning while observing their religious obligations,” Okoh stated.
Calls for a Compromise Solution
As the debate intensifies, education advocates and civil society organizations are urging the affected states to consider alternative measures such as adjusting school hours rather than enforcing a complete shutdown. With the JAMB UTME set to begin in April, they stress that any disruption in students’ academic schedules could have long-term consequences.
For now, students in the affected states face uncertainty as education and religious policies clash in yet another test of Nigeria’s approach to balancing faith and learning.
Conclusion
With JAMB 2025 drawing closer, these updates reflect both progress and challenges within the education sector. The establishment of the new CBT centre in Delta State offers a beacon of hope for students in underserved areas, providing them with modern facilities to excel in their exams. However, concerns over school closures in Northern states highlight the delicate balance between religious observances and academic commitments. Additionally, the legal issues surrounding a former JAMB official reinforce the judiciary’s stance on transparency and accountability. As students, educators, and policymakers navigate these issues, the focus remains on ensuring seamless exam preparation and equitable access to education for all candidates.