The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has debunked widespread rumours suggesting that students currently studying in Nigerian universities are barred from registering for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), describing the claims as deliberate misinformation designed to mislead candidates.
The clarification was issued by the Registrar of JAMB, Is-haq Oloyede, during an official visit to Port Harcourt, where he monitored the ongoing UTME registration exercise shortly after attending the second matriculation ceremony at Wigwe University.
The development comes amid rising concerns among students and parents over eligibility rules for the national entrance examination.
JAMB Dismisses Rumours as Fake and Misleading
According to Oloyede, there is no policy preventing already-admitted university students from sitting for UTME again if they choose to change course, switch institutions, or restart their academic journey.
He warned candidates to ignore claims circulating online or from unofficial sources.
“Students who are already attending universities are fully eligible to register for UTME. Anyone saying otherwise is misrepresenting the Board,” he said.
The Registrar noted that the spread of false information has been linked to individuals impersonating JAMB officials to exploit unsuspecting candidates.
Crackdown on Impersonators and Fraudsters
JAMB disclosed that security agencies have already apprehended several individuals allegedly involved in impersonation schemes. According to the Board, some suspects were producing fake identity cards and even organising unauthorized press briefings while falsely claiming to represent JAMB.
The Board warned students and parents to verify all information through official JAMB communication channels before making decisions related to UTME registration.
Why Students May Retake UTME
Education experts note that it is not uncommon for students to retake UTME for several legitimate reasons, including:
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Desire to change academic course
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Transfer to another university
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Upgrade admission opportunities
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Restart academic programmes due to personal or academic challenges
JAMB emphasised that Nigerian education regulations allow flexibility for students seeking better academic pathways.
Background: UTME’s Role in Nigeria’s Education System
The UTME remains Nigeria’s primary gateway into tertiary education, determining admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
In recent years, JAMB has implemented reforms including:
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Computer-Based Testing (CBT) nationwide
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Biometric verification to reduce exam malpractice
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Central admission processing through CAPS
These measures are aimed at improving transparency and credibility in the admission system.
Why This Matters
The clarification is significant for several reasons:
Student Mobility:
Students can explore better academic opportunities without being locked into previous admission decisions.
Fraud Prevention:
The warning helps protect candidates from scammers exploiting admission fears.
Education Access:
The policy supports academic flexibility in Nigeria’s evolving tertiary education landscape.
Public Confidence:
Clear communication from JAMB helps maintain trust in the admission system.
What Happens Next
JAMB says it will continue monitoring UTME registration nationwide while intensifying efforts to track down impersonators and fake agents.
Candidates have been advised to:
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Register only at accredited centres
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Follow official JAMB announcements
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Avoid paying money to unauthorized individuals
Education stakeholders say the clarification is expected to reduce panic and misinformation ahead of upcoming UTME sessions.
Why This Matters for Nigerian Families
With tertiary education competition rising yearly, accurate admission information is critical for students planning their academic future. False restrictions could discourage qualified candidates or push them toward fraudulent agents.
JAMB officials say protecting candidates from misinformation is now a key part of maintaining fairness and transparency in Nigeria’s education system.
