The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) continues to gear up for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) registration process. As January nears its end, prospective candidates, parents, and stakeholders eagerly await the official commencement of registration. This article provides the latest updates on JAMB’s activities, including the confirmed dates, advisory for candidates, NIN requirements, the approved reading text for the Use of English, and other critical developments to ensure a seamless registration and examination process.
2025 UTME/DE: JAMB Finalises Preparations, Engages CAN, Education Stakeholders
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that it is in the final stages of preparation to kickstart the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) registration processes.
As part of its commitment to ensuring a seamless and efficient examination cycle, JAMB has scheduled strategic meetings with critical stakeholders, including education commissioners, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and proprietors of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres.
Key Stakeholder Meetings Scheduled
Meeting with Commissioners of Education
The first meeting is slated for Monday, January 27, 2025, and will involve Commissioners of Education from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
This meeting is aimed at fostering collaboration and gathering insights from the commissioners, who play a vital role in shaping JAMB’s policies. Historically, these annual gatherings have allowed education commissioners to review, analyze, and provide feedback on the Board’s proposed examination processes and operational strategies.
Engagement with CAN and Other Stakeholders
On Tuesday, January 28, 2025, JAMB will hold discussions with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Chief External Examiners (CEEs), Chief Technical Advisors, and proprietors of CBT centres. These sessions will focus on refining the registration and examination processes, ensuring fairness, transparency, and inclusivity for all candidates.
The involvement of CAN and other groups highlights JAMB’s commitment to engaging with diverse stakeholders, recognizing their input as crucial to the success of the UTME and DE registration processes.
Focus on CBT Centres
The Tuesday meeting will also place significant emphasis on the proprietors of CBT centres, as these centres serve as the backbone of JAMB’s computer-based examinations. Discussions will center around logistics, technological readiness, and strategies to mitigate challenges faced during previous registration and examination cycles.
Ensuring a Seamless Registration Process
JAMB has assured stakeholders and candidates that the 2025 registration process will incorporate lessons learned from the 2024 cycle. Among the measures implemented are:
- Enhanced CBT Centre Accreditation: 870 CBT centres have been accredited for the 2025 UTME, compared to 747 in 2024, ensuring better access for candidates.
- Streamlined Registration Procedures: JAMB has optimized its registration processes, incorporating biometric verification and profile creation using the National Identification Number (NIN).
- Stakeholder Training: Proprietors and examiners have received extensive training on compliance, technical operations, and candidate support.
Commitment to Fairness and Inclusivity
The meetings will also address inclusivity, ensuring that candidates from all demographics, including those in remote areas, have equal access to registration and examination facilities.
JAMB reiterated that its policies, such as the mandatory NIN requirement, are designed to prevent fraud and uphold the integrity of its processes. Candidates are advised to create their profiles early by sending their NIN details to 55019 or 66019 to avoid delays once registration officially begins.
Stakeholder Roles in Ensuring Success
The involvement of education commissioners, CAN, and CBT proprietors underscores JAMB’s recognition of the collaborative effort required for a successful examination cycle. Each group plays a pivotal role:
- Education Commissioners: Provide insights and ensure policies align with state education priorities.
- CBT Centre Proprietors: Offer the infrastructure and technical support necessary for conducting examinations.
- CAN and Community Stakeholders: Advocate for transparency, inclusivity, and fairness in the process.
As JAMB finalizes preparations for the 2025 UTME and DE registration, its proactive engagement with stakeholders reflects its dedication to improving the examination experience for millions of Nigerian candidates. By fostering collaboration and addressing potential challenges head-on, JAMB is setting the stage for a seamless and efficient registration and examination process.
Candidates and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed through JAMB’s official channels and to adhere to the guidelines provided to ensure a smooth experience. With these measures in place, JAMB aims to deliver one of the most transparent and efficient UTME and DE registration cycles in its history.
Online Fraudsters Exploit Candidates Amid JAMB Registration Delay
The delay in the announcement of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration date has led to widespread anxiety and misinformation among prospective candidates. Fraudsters have exploited the situation, deceiving many naive candidates with false information and defrauding them under the guise of JAMB registration.
Candidates Express Concerns Over Registration Silence
On December 30, 2024, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) announced that the UTME registration would begin in January 2025, but a specific date was not provided. As January draws to a close, candidates and their parents have expressed frustration over the silence, which they claim has created room for misinformation.
For two consecutive years, JAMB has typically begun its registration process in mid-January. In 2023, registration ran from January 14 to February 14, while in 2024, it was scheduled from January 15 to February 26. This trend led many to speculate that registration for 2025 would begin around the same period, a misconception that fraudsters have leveraged to mislead unsuspecting candidates.
Fraudsters Take Advantage of Ignorance
Several candidates and parents, acting on false information circulating on social media, have visited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres, only to discover that registration has not yet commenced. Some have fallen victim to fraudsters posing as agents offering early registration.
A parent in Abuja, Mr. Bulus Kato, recounted how his son insisted on visiting a CBT centre after hearing unverified information online. “I was skeptical but accompanied him to the centre. While there, I saw many parents and candidates who were equally misled. Thankfully, I was able to protect my son from being swindled,” he said.
Another parent, Mrs. Agnes Oji from Lagos, expressed similar concerns. “I trusted my son’s information and didn’t verify it. We went to a CBT centre, only to realize the information was false. Unfortunately, I saw others at the centre being misled by fraudsters offering fake services,” she said.
Unfortunate Victims
Not everyone was as fortunate. A candidate in Nasarawa State, Miss Kambili Ezea, fell victim to fraud. Her handbag containing valuable items, including her phone and National Identification Number (NIN) card, was stolen. “Now I have to replace my NIN card and phone, which will delay my preparation,” she lamented.
Similarly, Yusurat Abdullahi, a prospective candidate in Abuja, wasted money traveling to a CBT centre based on false information. “I ignored my brother’s advice and trusted the online information. Now, I’ve learned the hard way to verify information from official sources,” she said.
JAMB Explains Delay
Sources within JAMB explained that the delay in announcing the registration date is due to ongoing improvements to the registration system. JAMB is integrating lessons learned from the 2024 UTME to provide a seamless experience for candidates.
The Board has completed the accreditation of 870 CBT centres nationwide, a significant increase from the 747 centres used in 2024. Additionally, JAMB has generated a satisfactory pool of examination items and implemented measures to prevent challenges faced in previous years.
JAMB reassured candidates of its commitment to conducting an exceptional UTME in 2025 and advised them to begin preparations early by creating their profiles. Candidates can do this by sending a text message: NIN (space) followed by their 11-digit NIN number to 55019 or 66019.
Warning Against Henna Use
JAMB has reiterated its strict warning against the use of henna designs, also known as ‘Laali’ or ‘Lale,’ on fingers. Henna can interfere with biometric verification during registration and examination, a mandatory process for candidates to gain access to the exam hall.
Candidates attempting to remove henna with harsh chemicals risk damaging their fingerprints, making verification nearly impossible. JAMB emphasized the importance of keeping all ten fingers clean and free from markings throughout the registration and examination period.
Past Registration Trends and Lessons
JAMB’s past registration schedules have set a pattern, with mid-January start dates for two consecutive years. This consistency likely fueled speculation about the 2025 registration timeline. However, JAMB’s decision to delay the announcement may stem from a need to finalize system upgrades and prevent technical glitches.
In previous years, JAMB faced challenges, including technical issues and complaints from candidates. The Board has since implemented robust measures to address these concerns and ensure a smoother process.
Advice to Candidates and Parents
To avoid falling victim to fraudsters or misinformation, candidates and parents are advised to:
- Follow Official Channels: Rely only on updates from JAMB’s official website and verified social media handles.
- Create Profiles Early: Use the NIN-based profile creation process to streamline registration when it begins.
- Verify Information: Cross-check any information about JAMB registration dates or processes before taking action.
- Avoid Fraudulent Agents: Do not pay anyone claiming to offer early registration or other JAMB-related services.
The delay in the 2025 UTME registration has understandably caused anxiety among candidates and parents. However, JAMB’s efforts to enhance its processes indicate a commitment to delivering a seamless and efficient registration and examination experience.
As candidates await the official registration announcement, vigilance and reliance on verified information are crucial to avoid falling victim to fraud. By adhering to JAMB’s guidelines and preparing early, candidates can ensure they are ready to seize the opportunities that the 2025 UTME presents.
NIMC Advises Underage UTME Candidates on Generating JAMB Profile Codes
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued an important advisory for parents and guardians whose wards are under 16 years of age or have recently turned 16 and are preparing to register for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
NIMC Guidance on JAMB Profile Code Generation
In a statement released via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, January 27, 2025, NIMC emphasized that children under 16, as reflected in their National Identity Number (NIN) records, will not be able to generate JAMB profile codes using the online platform. Instead, parents and guardians are advised to visit the nearest NIMC Enrolment Centre to update their children’s records through a process called “Migration.”
The statement read:
“Attention parents/guardians: Is your child/ward under or just turned 16 on their NIN record? They won’t be able to generate their JAMB profile code. Take them to the nearest NIMC Enrolment Centre for a quick ‘Migration’ update. Ensure their dreams of higher education aren’t delayed.”
This directive aims to ensure that prospective UTME candidates under 16 do not face unnecessary delays in their registration process due to age-related discrepancies in their NIN records.
JAMB’s Message to Prospective 2025 Candidates
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has also advised prospective candidates to ensure they have obtained their NIN and a unique phone number that has not been previously used for JAMB registration.
In a statement shared on its X handle on January 15, 2025, JAMB reiterated that obtaining a NIN is a prerequisite for generating a profile code, a crucial step in the registration process. The board stated:
“You can get your NIN ahead and a phone number that has not been previously used to register on our platform to generate your profile code prior to the time.”
This preparatory step is intended to streamline the registration process and reduce delays once registration officially begins.
JAMB Recommends ‘The Lekki Headmaster’ as 2025 UTME Novel
As part of preparations for the 2025 UTME, JAMB has announced The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba as the approved reading text for the Use of English.
The announcement was made on January 14, 2025, through JAMB’s official X handle. The board encouraged prospective candidates to obtain the novel early to prepare adequately for the examination.
JAMB’s statement read:
“Attention prospective 2025 UTME candidates! This is to inform you that The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba has been approved as the reading text for the Use of English. Details on the UTME/DE registration shall be released shortly. Kindly be on the lookout for updates.”
The author of the novel, Kabir Alabi Garba, is a celebrated arts and culture journalist whose work is expected to inspire critical thinking and engagement among candidates.
Scholarship Reward for Top UTME Performer
Meanwhile, in related news, a top-performing 2024 UTME candidate, Olalude David Ayodeji, has been awarded a ₦2.4 million scholarship by the SQI College of ICT. Ayodeji, a student of Deeper Life High School, scored an impressive 341 in the 2024 UTME.
The scholarship covers a 12-month professional training program in Robotics Engineering at the college’s AI and Robotics Research Centre, showcasing the importance of rewarding academic excellence in fostering innovation and development.
Steps for Prospective UTME Candidates
To ensure a seamless registration process, prospective candidates are advised to:
- Obtain their NIN early and ensure it is updated at the nearest NIMC office if they are under or just turned 16 years old.
- Generate their JAMB profile codes by sending a text message in the format: NIN (space) followed by their 11-digit NIN number to 55019 or 66019 using a phone number that has not been previously used for JAMB registration.
- Acquire the recommended novel, The Lekki Headmaster, to begin their preparation for the Use of English section.
- Follow official JAMB and NIMC updates on their websites and verified social media handles to avoid falling victim to misinformation or fraud.
With preparations for the 2025 UTME well underway, JAMB and NIMC have demonstrated their commitment to providing candidates with a seamless registration process. Parents and guardians are urged to act promptly to address any potential issues with their wards’ NIN records, ensuring no candidate is left behind due to technicalities.
As the registration date draws nearer, candidates are encouraged to stay informed and proactive in their preparations to maximize their chances of success in the 2025 UTME.
NIMC Urges JAMB Candidates to Register for NIN Ahead of 2025 UTME
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued an important message to candidates preparing for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), emphasizing the need to register for their National Identification Number (NIN). The announcement, made via the commission’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle on January 27, 2025, highlights the critical role of NIN in enabling candidates to access JAMB examinations and secure their academic futures.
Importance of NIN for JAMB Exams
NIMC reiterated that the NIN serves as a gateway to accessing the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams. In its post, the commission stated:
“Are you a JAMB/UTME candidate? Enrol for your NIN to enable you to access JAMB exams. NIN, your gateway to a brighter future.”
This message underscores the significance of the NIN as an essential requirement for candidates to participate in the 2025 UTME.
Advisory for Parents and Guardians
The commission also addressed parents and guardians, particularly those whose wards are under 16 years of age or recently turned 16, as reflected in their NIN records. According to NIMC, such candidates may face difficulties generating their JAMB profile codes unless they update their records.
In its advisory, NIMC stated:
“Attention parents/guardians! Is your child/ward under 16 or just turned 16 on their NIN record? They won’t be able to generate their JAMB profile code. Take them to the nearest NIMC Enrollment Centre for a quick ‘Migration’ update. Ensure their dreams of higher education are not delayed.”
This guidance aims to prevent unnecessary delays and ensure that candidates can complete their registration process seamlessly.
Understanding NIN and NIMC
The National Identification Number (NIN) is a unique identifier assigned to Nigerian citizens and legal residents by NIMC. It serves as a consolidated identity verification tool for accessing government and private sector services, including JAMB exams.
NIMC, established to create and maintain a unified national identity database, is responsible for issuing NINs, verifying identities, and developing policies to streamline national identity management. By ensuring that every Nigerian has a verifiable identity, NIMC contributes to enhancing security, promoting social and economic development, and fostering transparency in various processes.
JAMB’s Role in Tertiary Education
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the Nigerian examination body responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Established in 1978, JAMB facilitates admissions to universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education through a standardized examination process.
JAMB has implemented several measures to enhance the integrity of its examinations, including requiring candidates to provide their NIN during registration. This step has helped curb malpractices and ensure a transparent and fair admission process for all candidates.
NIMC’s Future Initiatives
In related news, NIMC recently announced plans to roll out an improved multi-purpose biometric identity card. Dr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, Director General of NIMC, disclosed this during a media briefing in Abuja. The upgraded NIN card is expected to enhance identity management and further streamline access to services across various sectors.
How to Register for NIN
To facilitate the UTME registration process, JAMB candidates are advised to ensure they have their NIN before registration begins. Parents and guardians of candidates under 16 should visit NIMC enrollment centres to update their children’s records, a process referred to as “Migration.”
To create a JAMB profile, candidates can send a text message:
NIN (space) followed by their 11-digit NIN number to 55019 or 66019 using a unique phone number.
The NIMC’s emphasis on timely NIN registration is a critical step in ensuring a seamless 2025 UTME process for candidates. By addressing potential age-related challenges and providing clear directives for parents and guardians, the commission aims to eliminate delays and frustrations for candidates preparing for higher education.
As the 2025 UTME draws nearer, candidates are encouraged to act promptly, follow official updates from JAMB and NIMC, and avoid misinformation or fraudulent agents. With adequate preparation and compliance, candidates can look forward to a smooth registration and examination process.
Conclusion
As the countdown to the 2025 UTME begins, JAMB is leaving no stone unturned in its preparations to deliver a smooth and efficient registration and examination experience for candidates nationwide. From ensuring adequate CBT centre accreditation to enforcing the mandatory NIN requirement and recommending The Lekki Headmaster as the official reading text, the Board continues to set new standards in transparency and efficiency. Candidates are encouraged to stay informed through official JAMB channels, complete their preparations early, and adhere to all guidelines to avoid unnecessary delays or complications.
Thanks
I thought jamb commenced already tho