The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a formal apology to female Muslim candidates affected by a hijab-related incident at the Caleb University CBT Centre in Imota, Lagos, during the ongoing 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The incident, which occurred on Thursday, April 24, sparked nationwide outrage after reports emerged that some hijab-wearing candidates were compelled by security personnel at the Christian-owned institution to remove their hijabs before they were permitted to sit for their exams.
Swift Response from Islamic Organisations
The action drew swift condemnation from prominent Islamic groups including the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), the Hijab Rights Advocacy Initiative (HRAI), and the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State Area Unit. These organisations called on JAMB to take disciplinary action against those responsible and to delist the centre from future examination use.
JAMB Responds and Condemns Incident
In response, JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, described the action as “unauthorised and unilateral,” stating that it was carried out by an “overzealous” security officer and not sanctioned by the board.
“The examination body has been alerted to the unauthorized restrictions imposed on candidates wearing hijabs in its Caleb University Centre. Swift action has been taken to address this decision, which was also condemned by the Vice-Chancellor of the university,” he said.
No Candidate Denied Exam Opportunity
Dr. Benjamin assured the public that no candidate was ultimately prevented from sitting for the examination, thanks to the prompt intervention of both JAMB officials and the university’s leadership.
“We extend our sincere apologies to the affected candidates and commend the leadership of both the centre and the university for ensuring that no candidate suffered undue disadvantage,” he added.
Commitment to Religious Freedom
JAMB reiterated its commitment to upholding the rights of all candidates and respecting religious freedoms at all its examination centres. The board also promised to implement measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
This development marks a crucial step in safeguarding the rights of Muslim candidates and promoting inclusivity in Nigeria’s education system.
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