The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Ishaq Oloyede, has stated that the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) has proceeded smoothly across Nigeria, with only minor disruptions reported.
Speaking on Saturday during a monitoring visit to Computer-Based Test centres in Oyo State, Oloyede made the remarks at the University of Ibadan CBT centre in Ibadan.
He said the examination process has been largely successful, noting that only a small number of centres encountered challenges, mostly due to power issues and minor technical glitches.
“Like any human activity, there will be challenges, but they have been minimal. Out of about 980 centres nationwide, we have recorded issues in only about 16 centres,” he said.
He further revealed that more than 1.7 million candidates had successfully taken the examination within three days, despite earlier concerns about the process.
Oloyede described the conduct of the exercise as “superb” and commended the support of key stakeholders, including vice-chancellors, rectors, and other academic officials who served as proctors.
Addressing reports alleging that some candidates were kidnapped, the registrar warned against the spread of unverified information, stressing that such claims could complicate ongoing security efforts.
“It is unfortunate that people were kidnapped, but linking them directly to JAMB without evidence complicates security efforts. “The focus should be on ensuring their safe return,” he said.
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On concerns raised by candidates and parents over early arrival times, Oloyede clarified that examinations do not begin at 6:30 a.m., explaining that candidates are only required to arrive early for accreditation.
He added that the board had shifted the official start time from 8 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. following feedback, though this adjustment resulted in longer waiting periods for some candidates.
The registrar also addressed misconceptions about the UTME, emphasising that it is just one component of the admission process, alongside O-Level requirements.
He cautioned candidates and parents against falling victim to fraudsters promising “exam runs” or score manipulation, noting that the board has stepped up efforts to identify and prosecute offenders.
According to him, several suspects are already being prosecuted for examination malpractice.
Oloyede cited a case where an individual, even while in custody, continued to deceive parents by claiming to have the ability to upgrade candidates’ scores.
“We have our own mechanisms to detect such fraud. Those who attempt shortcuts will be identified and sanctioned,” the registrar said.
He urged the public to report suspicious activities and fraudulent platforms, particularly on social media, while also commending security agencies for their role in tackling malpractice.
Oloyede reiterated the board’s resolve to uphold the credibility of the examination system and ensure a transparent admission process into tertiary institutions.