NIMC Urges JAMB/UTME Candidates to Enroll for NIN, Issues Advisory to Parents and Guardians

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has reiterated the importance of the National Identification Number (NIN) for candidates preparing to sit for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). In a statement shared via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on January 27, 2025, the commission emphasized that enrollment for NIN is mandatory for accessing the JAMB exams, positioning it as a gateway to higher education.

NIN: The Key to Accessing JAMB Exams

NIMC highlighted the critical role of NIN in the JAMB registration and examination process, urging candidates to prioritize their enrollment. 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 underscores the importance of having a valid NIN as a prerequisite for generating a JAMB profile code and successfully completing the UTME registration process.

Advisory for Parents and Guardians

In a follow-up message, NIMC addressed parents and guardians of candidates under 16 or those who recently turned 16, advising them to visit the nearest NIMC Enrollment Centre for a “Migration” update.

The advisory read:

“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 step is essential for resolving age-related discrepancies in NIN records, ensuring that younger candidates can seamlessly generate their profile codes and register for the examination.

The Role of NIN and NIMC

The National Identification Number (NIN) is a unique identifier issued by NIMC to Nigerian citizens and legal residents. It serves as a consolidated authentication tool for accessing various government and private sector services, including JAMB registration and exams.

NIMC’s mission is to manage a unified national identity database and ensure that every Nigerian has a verifiable identity. The commission is also tasked with issuing NINs, providing identity verification services, and developing policies for effective national identity management.

About JAMB and Its Role in Higher Education

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), established in 1978, is responsible for conducting entrance examinations for tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is a standardized test required for admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

JAMB has introduced various measures to enhance the integrity of its examination system, curb malpractices, and ensure a transparent admission process. The integration of NIN into the UTME registration process is one such measure aimed at ensuring the credibility of candidate records.

NIMC’s Plans for an Improved ID Card

In related developments, NIMC has announced plans to roll out an improved multipurpose biometric identity card. The commission’s Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, disclosed during a recent media briefing in Abuja that the enhanced NIN card would provide greater functionality and serve multiple purposes for individuals.

Call to Action for JAMB/UTME Candidates

To avoid delays and ensure a seamless registration process, prospective candidates are advised to:

1. Enroll for NIN early: Visit the nearest NIMC office to complete their NIN registration if they haven’t done so already.
2. Update age discrepancies: Parents or guardians of underage candidates should ensure their wards undergo the “Migration” update at NIMC Enrollment Centres.
3. Generate a profile code: After obtaining a valid NIN, candidates can 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.
4. Stay informed: Follow official updates from NIMC and JAMB to avoid falling victim to misinformation or fraud.

Conclusion

As preparations for the 2025 UTME continue, NIMC’s emphasis on NIN enrollment and updates highlights the importance of a streamlined identity verification process. By adhering to the advisory, candidates can ensure they meet all requirements for a successful registration and examination experience.

Both JAMB and NIMC remain committed to fostering transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in the education sector, reinforcing the critical role of technology and identity management in shaping Nigeria’s future leaders.