The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) remains a central figure in Nigeria’s tertiary education system, shaping admission processes and policies for millions of students each year. As the 2025 UTME approaches, key updates have emerged regarding admission guidelines, examination procedures, and initiatives aimed at supporting students. In today’s JAMB news update for February 10, 2025, we cover the latest developments, including JAMB’s stance on high UTME scores, concerns over admission processes, allegations of fraud, and interventions to assist students in registering for the exam.
High UTME Score Not Enough for Varsity, Polytechnic Admission — JAMB
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reaffirmed that a high score in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) does not automatically guarantee admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education.
JAMB’s spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, made this clarification in a statement issued on Sunday, February 9, 2025, emphasizing that admission decisions are based on multiple factors, including:
- Candidates’ O’level results
- UTME scores
- Post-UTME performance
- Ranking based on merit, catchment areas, and quotas for Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS)
Concerns Over High Scores Without Admission
JAMB’s response follows growing concerns from candidates and parents who claim that universities are denying admission to students despite their high UTME scores.
One such case involved Godwin Nsan, a parent who accused the University of Calabar (UNICAL) of unfairly rejecting his son’s admission.
However, JAMB’s investigation revealed that the candidate, despite scoring 201 in UTME, had an aggregate score of 34%, which was below the university’s minimum cut-off marks:
- Merit-based admission: 55%
- Catchment category: 35%
- ELDS category: 35%
Similarly, another candidate who scored 345 in UTME accused the University of Jos (UniJos) of denying him admission. However, after JAMB’s review, it was revealed that the candidate ranked 86th, while the university could only admit 68 candidates on merit.
JAMB explained, “In some universities, a UTME score of 345 may still rank a candidate as low as 300, depending on the institution’s capacity and competition.”
Understanding the Holistic Admission Process
JAMB has urged parents and candidates to understand that admission is highly competitive and must follow a structured ranking process.
The Board advised parents to seek clarification through the appropriate channels instead of making unfounded allegations against universities.
Options for Candidates Facing Admission Issues
To challenge admission decisions, JAMB reminded candidates that they can use its official ‘ticketing platform’, which allows them to make inquiries and submit appeals.
JAMB’s Zero-Tolerance for Admission Fraud
Meanwhile, JAMB disclosed that a senior university official is currently being prosecuted for alleged admission fraud, with four others under investigation.
The Board reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on admission irregularities, assuring Nigerians that it remains committed to a fair and transparent selection process while taking decisive action against any institution or individual engaged in questionable practices.
UNILAG Don Accuses JAMB of Overcharging Admission Seekers, Calls for Reform
A Professor of Comparative Political Economy at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Adelaja Odukoya, has accused the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) of exploiting prospective students by imposing excessive charges on those seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions.
Prof. Odukoya, who is the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at UNILAG and Lagos Zone Coordinator of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), made these remarks while delivering the sixth inaugural lecture of the university’s current academic session on Wednesday. His lecture, titled “Armageddon,” was attended by over 2,500 participants from both the public and private sectors, physically and virtually.
JAMB’s Centralized System Under Fire
The don criticized JAMB for maintaining a centralized examination system, describing it as outdated and a violation of university autonomy. According to him, Nigerian universities have failed to challenge JAMB’s monopoly over admissions, allowing the Board to impose unnecessary fees on candidates.
“We are practically allowing JAMB and its Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, to get away with blue-murder by intruding into university admission processes and exploiting hapless admission seekers through unending spurious charges for uploading, downloading, checking of results, and other detectible means,” he stated.
JAMB’s Role in University Admissions Questioned
Prof. Odukoya insisted that JAMB was not created to function as a revenue-generating arm of the government, arguing that the revenue it generates rightfully belongs to the universities.
“The money made by JAMB is the rightful revenue of the various universities to which the candidates applied. But JAMB has become a big behemoth whose utility has since expired, and it is time we staged the requiem mass for it.”
He further argued that universities should be allowed to conduct their admissions independently, rather than relying on a middleman institution that has turned admission processing into a profit-making venture.
The Fate of Millions of JAMB Candidates
The professor also questioned the effectiveness of JAMB’s centralized admission system, pointing out that although over two million candidates sit for the UTME annually, only about 25% gain admission into universities.
“JAMB boasts of processing the largest number of online admissions in Africa, yet millions of candidates remain stranded every year. The Board continues to declare surpluses from its operations, yet access to higher education remains limited.”
Call for Leadership Reform and a Just Society
Beyond his criticisms of JAMB, Prof. Odukoya also condemned Nigeria’s political leadership, describing many politicians as greedy and self-serving. He lamented that Nigeria and Africa as a whole suffer from poverty, insecurity, disease, malnutrition, illiteracy, and bad governance, despite their abundant human and material resources.
He urged intellectuals, professionals, and citizens to collaborate in producing selfless leaders who prioritize social justice, economic fairness, and national development.
UNILAG Vice-Chancellor’s Response
In her remarks at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, represented by Prof. Bola Oboh (Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics and Research), praised Prof. Odukoya for his scholarly contributions. She described him as a fearless advocate for the underprivileged and commended his long-standing service to the university.
“With this rich and well-delivered inaugural lecture, you have joined the ranks of high-profile professors who have made significant contributions to academic discourse. You are hereby discharged and acquitted,” she concluded.
JAMB Cautions Parents Against False Admission Denial Claims
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has advised parents to desist from making unfounded allegations against universities regarding perceived unfair admission denials for their children.
In a statement released on Sunday, JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, addressed a series of complaints, including a case involving Mr. Godwin Nsan, who accused the University of Calabar of unjustly denying his son admission.
JAMB’s Clarification on Admission Processes
JAMB clarified that the candidate in question scored 201 in UTME with an aggregate score of 34%, which was below the university’s admission cut-off marks:
- Merit: 55%
- Catchment Area: 35%
- Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS): 35%
Benjamin stated, “He had unduly castigated the university, but when he finally provided the required details, it became clear that his child did not meet the admission criteria.”
Other Cases of False Admission Claims
A similar complaint was raised against Modibbo Adama University, Yola, but after investigation, JAMB found the claim to be baseless.
JAMB also addressed a case where a father alleged that his son, who scored 345 in UTME, was unjustly denied admission by the University of Jos. Upon further review at JAMB’s headquarters, it was revealed that the candidate ranked 86th, while only 68 candidates could be admitted on merit.
Benjamin explained, “It is essential to note that in some universities, a score of 345 might rank a candidate as low as 300, depending on the institution’s subscription capacity. The father later apologized after seeing the ranking process.”
Warning Against Abuse of the Exceptionally Brilliant Window
JAMB cautioned against the misuse of the “exceptionally brilliant window”, introduced for candidates under 16 years old. The Board noted that an unrealistic number of candidates have been registered under this category, contrary to global standards, where only a few qualify.
Commitment to Fair Admissions and Ongoing Investigations
JAMB reaffirmed its commitment to transparent admissions, warning that a senior university official is currently being prosecuted for admission fraud, with four others under investigation.
“We urge parents to refrain from jumping to conclusions without considering the performance of other candidates. The UTME serves as a ranking examination by determining a candidate’s position within a cohort for the limited available spaces in our nation’s tertiary institutions,” Benjamin stated.
Unite for Better Development, JAMB Boss Urges Nigerians
The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Ishaq Oloyede, has called on Nigerians to remain united and work together towards achieving better growth and development for the nation.
Speaking at the 15th Obafemi Awolowo University Muslim Graduates Association (UNIFEMGA) National Honour’s Day Programme in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Saturday, Oloyede emphasized that national unity is essential for driving growth and prosperity.
Call for Unity and Social Responsibility
Oloyede urged individuals who share common faith and values to come together in synergy and contribute to societal development. He also advised wealthy and privileged individuals to always remember those in need, as acts of generosity enhance collective happiness and social stability.
Also speaking at the event, legal icon, Professor Yusuf Ali (SAN), emphasized the importance of doing good and uplifting others. He noted that many individuals who started with little have now achieved great success through God’s blessings and the support of others.
Economic Reforms and Digital Transformation
In his lecture titled “Nigeria’s Economic Reforms: Mitigating the Challenges Through Sustainable Economic Measures”, Professor Musa Aibinu, Vice Chancellor of Summit University, Offa, stressed the need for digital knowledge adoption to enhance Nigeria’s economic development.
Aibinu highlighted that leveraging digital transformation and emerging technologies can significantly improve the country’s economy. He also advocated for a shift from a certificate-based education system to a model that incorporates practical skills, ensuring self-reliance and employability for Nigerian graduates.
Recognition of Outstanding Individuals
During the event, several distinguished personalities were honored for their contributions to human development. Among the award recipients were Associate Professor Barakat Raji and Engineer Rahman Amao, who expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering positive societal change.
The event emphasized the importance of unity, social responsibility, and economic transformation in shaping a prosperous Nigeria. With leaders like Professor Oloyede advocating for collaboration, philanthropy, and digital innovation, Nigeria is poised for sustainable growth and national development.
JAMB Warns Exam Centres Against Night-Time Registration of Candidates
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a strong warning to examination centres against conducting night-time registrations for candidates preparing for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
In a statement released by Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s spokesperson, the Board emphasized that ensuring a large number of candidates register for the examination should not come at the expense of their safety.
Centres Found Violating JAMB Regulations
JAMB identified 10 CBT centres that have been found culpable of violating this directive:
- Thomas Adewumi University, Kwara State
- CBT Centre Otukpo, Benue
- Ebenezer International School, Rivers
- Jigawa State College of Education, Jigawa
- Lafiagi Emirate Information Technology & Innovation Hub, Kwara
- Zulqud Consult Ltd (ZCL CBT Centre), Government Secondary School, Lugbe Bridge
- Klinnicapps Academy (formerly Christian Secondary Commercial School), Rivers
- Sani Mikaila Comprehensive College, Plateau
- Beeps Technology Limited, Cross River
- FZX Media Consulting Limited, Cross River
JAMB has vowed to take decisive actions to address this issue and protect the integrity of the UTME registration process. The Board stressed that any CBT centre engaging in exploitative or questionable practices will face appropriate sanctions.
JAMB Cautions Parents Against Harassment of Admission Officers
In a related development, JAMB has warned parents and candidates against publicly harassing university officials over admission processes. The Board noted that some parents claim that their children are denied admission despite scoring high marks in UTME.
A recent case involved Mr. Godwin Nsan, who accused the University of Calabar of unjustly denying his son admission. JAMB investigated the claim and discovered that the candidate, who scored 201 in UTME with an aggregate score of 34%, did not meet the university’s admission cut-offs:
- Merit: 55%
- Catchment: 35%
- ELDS (Educationally Less Developed States): 35%
JAMB urged parents and guardians to follow due process and utilize its Ticketing Platform for inquiries and complaints rather than resorting to public protests and media accusations.
JAMB’s Commitment to Fairness and Integrity
JAMB reaffirmed its commitment to fair and transparent admissions while ensuring the safety of all candidates throughout the UTME registration process. The Board assured candidates and parents that it will continue to enforce regulations that safeguard the integrity of tertiary education admissions in Nigeria.
JAMB Aspirant Accuses Mr. Segun, Owner of ‘The Connection Tutorial,’ of Harassment and Assault
A JAMB aspirant has publicly accused Mr. Segun, the owner of The Connection Tutorial, of making inappropriate advances toward her and physically assaulting her.
The student shared her ordeal in a series of videos on TikTok, where she detailed the alleged harassment and assault involving Mr. Segun, his wife, and his wife’s sister at the tutorial center.
How It Started
According to the aspirant, she had issues generating her JAMB profile code, prompting her mother to seek assistance from Mr. Segun. He assured them that he could resolve the issue. However, after their initial meeting, he began calling her frequently, insisting she visit him and often keeping her waiting while attending to other students.
The Alleged Assault
The aspirant recounted that in early February, she visited the tutorial center after paying her fees in advance on January 28. Despite her payment, she was asked to wait outside, while another student who had not made any payment was allowed in.
When she attempted to place her bag inside before stepping outside, Mr. Segun allegedly struck her with a wire and began beating her. In self-defense, she pushed him away, causing him to fall, injure his arm, and break his phone.
Verbal Confrontation and Further Assault
Following the incident, Mr. Segun’s wife allegedly confronted her, calling her derogatory names and accusing her of being a prostitute. In response, the aspirant revealed that her husband had been persistently making advances toward her.
This led to a heated exchange, after which his wife’s sister allegedly joined in and physically attacked the student.
Aspirant’s Statement
In her TikTok videos, the aspirant narrated: “I used to attend this lesson. Mr. Segun was supposed to help me with my JAMB profile code issue after my mum asked him to. Since then, he started calling me often and asking me to wait after lessons. The first time, he made me wait while attending to others, so I left. Another time, I refused to wait again, and he later told my friend he would flog her for taking me home. I sensed something was off and reported him to my mother.”
Social Media Reactions
The allegations have sparked outrage online, with many social media users flooding the comment section to share their experiences and opinions on the matter.
Some users who claim to have attended The Connection Tutorial shared similar accounts:
- “That man doesn’t send anybody. Even if you’re 25, he still behaves the same way.”
- “I attended that lesson too, and I avoided that man like my life depended on it.”
- “Why are they flogging grown students?”
- “Take all this evidence to the police and get him arrested for assault.”
Call for Action
Many users have urged the aspirant to report the incident to the authorities, with calls for legal action against Mr. Segun and his family. Some have suggested that police intervention is necessary to shut down the tutorial center and prevent future occurrences.
As the controversy continues to gain traction, concerned individuals are demanding justice for the victim and a thorough investigation into the allegations.
Balarabe Abbas Lawal Foundation Sponsors 1,000 Students for JAMB 2025 Registration
As part of his ongoing efforts to improve education in Kaduna State and across Nigeria, the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has sponsored 1,000 students from various secondary schools for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) JAMB registration.
Supporting Students Through Education Empowerment
This initiative aligns with the Minister’s commitment to assisting underprivileged students who are unable to afford JAMB registration fees due to financial constraints. By covering the costs, the Minister aims to bridge the gap and ensure more students have access to tertiary education.
Our correspondent visited Federal College of Education (FCE) Zaria CBT Centre for the Zone 1 registration, as well as the Anchau Centre in Kubua Local Government Area, where a large number of secondary school students were seen undergoing registration and biometric thumbprinting.
Coordinators Praise the Minister’s Initiative
Speaking to newsmen, Mallam Halilu Hassan, a coordinator of the program, described the sponsorship as a follow-up to the recent scholarships provided to students in higher institutions in Kaduna State.
“Let me start by commending our hardworking Minister for this gesture. About two weeks ago, he sponsored students in tertiary institutions by paying their school fees. This JAMB sponsorship further demonstrates his commitment to education. We will also visit the Kaduna and Kafanchan registration centres, where the exercise is ongoing,” he said.
Similarly, another coordinator, Umar Yahaya, urged the students to take their exams seriously, noting that success in the UTME would provide them with greater academic opportunities.
“The Minister is passionate about education, and as you can see, all the students are smiling and appreciative of his support. This opportunity is one they must maximize to build a brighter future,” Yahaya stated.
Students Express Gratitude
Some of the beneficiaries from various secondary schools in Zone 1 expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Minister for easing their financial burden and giving them the chance to pursue higher education.
This initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to improving education in Nigeria, ensuring that more students have access to quality learning opportunities regardless of their financial background.
Foundation Offers Free 500 JAMB Forms to Students in Ondo North
The Abdul Tunji Muhammed (ATM) Foundation has announced its plan to sponsor 500 students in Akoko, Ondo North Senatorial District, by providing them with free 2025 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) registration forms.
In a statement released by the foundation’s organising committee, the initiative was described as a major step toward promoting educational opportunities for students in the district.
“This incredible initiative is designed to empower aspiring students throughout our senatorial district, giving them the chance to register for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations at no cost,” the statement read.
The foundation assured that the free JAMB forms would be available across all six local government areas within the senatorial district, making it accessible to all eligible candidates.
“We’re thrilled to announce that the ATM-free JAMB forms for 2025 are now here. Our forms are accessible in all six local councils within the district, ensuring that every eligible student can grab the opportunity to propel their education forward,” the statement added.
Interested students have been advised to visit the foundation’s office at Alhaji Kunle Abdul Avenue, Ugbe-Akoko, on or before Monday, February 24, 2025, to take advantage of the opportunity.
This initiative aligns with the foundation’s commitment to supporting educational development and reducing financial barriers for students preparing for tertiary education.
Conclusion
With JAMB playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s higher education system, staying informed about its policies and updates is essential for candidates and parents alike. Today’s news highlights the complexities of university admissions, ongoing debates over JAMB’s operations, and commendable initiatives aimed at easing students’ financial burdens. As the UTME draws closer, candidates are encouraged to adhere to official guidelines, seek clarification through proper channels, and remain focused on their academic goals. Stay tuned for more updates on JAMB and related educational matters.