The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has proposed strict penalties for 11 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers and their associated registrants following irregularities related to fingerprint fraud during the registration for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
JAMB Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede disclosed this after a strategic meeting with stakeholders and the implicated CBT centers on Tuesday in Abuja. He emphasized that the disciplinary measures, which still await approval from the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, are aimed at preserving the integrity of the examination system.
Registrants involved in registering over 50 candidates with fingerprint anomalies will face a three-year suspension from all JAMB-related activities, including registration and participation in UTME and related exams (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB).
After the suspension period, cases will be reviewed and may be reconsidered based on demonstrated remorse.
Offenders with fewer than 50 candidates involved will be warned, must write an apology, and sign a bond pledging not to repeat the offense.
All affected CBT centers will be required to provide proof of staff training on ethical standards conducted by a federal university in their area before being re-engaged by JAMB.
Oloyede added that no further infractions would be tolerated, regardless of claims of ignorance, and that federal agencies responsible for any of the implicated centers would be formally notified.
Some of the affected registrants and operators admitted to the malpractice—commonly known as “fingerprint contribution”—citing ignorance or pressure to increase registrations. Many pleaded for leniency, with some breaking down in tears.
Former Lagos Police Commissioner Fatai Owoseni, present at the meeting, stated that the acts were criminal and could merit prosecution, but he appealed for forgiveness conditioned on signed undertakings.
An official from Jicoras CBT Centre, Bashir Gumel, confirmed that internal investigations are underway and that findings will be submitted to JAMB. He added that this was their first time participating in a CBT center and assured them that such violations would not happen again.
The 11 affected centers are Misau Emirate ICT Centre – Bauchi State,
Ijaw National Academy – Bayelsa State,
Directorate of ICT, Nigerian Army University – Gombe State, Emerald IT Academy Limited – Edo State, Tigh Technologies, Sascon International School – Abuja, and Jicoras CBT Centre – Jigawa State
Others are Huntsville Technology Limited – Lagos State, Jolas College CBT Centre – Lagos State, Abdul Ocean Wealth CBT Centre – Oyo State, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Wase – Plateau State, and Consulate Salle D’Examen CBT Centre – Rivers State.
