The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has launched a stringent crackdown on illegal admissions within Nigerian universities, aiming to preserve the integrity and transparency of the nation’s education system.
The government agency disclosed its stringent measures in that direction at a press briefing held within its headquarters in Abuja on Sunday.
Speaking on behalf of JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, JAMB spokesperson, Dr Fabian Benjamin explained that admissions deemed illegal are those that did not abide by the examining body’s guidelines.
He noted that such admissions were condoned until 2017, when the admissions used to be considered for legitimisation.
JAMB said it will no longer recognize or absorb illegal admissions through the condonement window.
Widespread Fraud
The board uncovered extensive collusion between some institutions and candidates to falsify vital admission details.
This includes backdating year of entry and adjusting ages to use certificates of genuine candidates with similar names, enabling fake candidates to participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.
Mandatory Disclosure
Institutions are required to disclose all candidates admitted illegally prior to 2017 within a one-month window starting from August 1, 2024.
Any admissions not disclosed within this period will not be recognized.
Upholding via CAPS
Introduced in 2017, the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) was designed to ensure accuracy, transparency, and fairness in the admissions process.
JAMB’s crackdown is a reinforcement of CAPS to eliminate fraudulent practices.
JAMB’s Commitment
Mr Benjamin emphasized the board’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of the admission process.
He highlighted the alarming rise of false affidavits and doctored age-adjustment documents submitted to JAMB, which the board considers dangerous and inimical.
Benjamin stated, “The board will no longer entertain the absorption of illegal admissions through the condonement of illegal admissions window, which has been abused over the years.”
Ministerial Support
The crackdown follows the directive of the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, who has insisted on the enforcement of age requirements and the elimination of illegal admissions.
During the 2024 National Policy Meeting, the minister called for strict adherence to the 6-3-3-4 educational policy, which JAMB is set to enforce from the 2025 admission session onwards.
JAMB’s rigorous measures aim to uphold the standards of the Nigerian education system, ensuring that all admissions are lawful and transparent.
The board’s actions reflect a commitment to rooting out fraudulent practices and maintaining the credibility of tertiary education in Nigeria.
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